The property classes of the pre-reform legion

Velites skirmished with minimal protection, hastati formed the younger front line, principes supplied the better-equipped central weight, and veteran triarii served as the final reserve. Wealthy equites provided cavalry with their own horses and equipment. The infantry lines were intended to replace one another as fighting exhausted the formations ahead, with the triarii representing the final crisis reserve. Age, experience, and wealth therefore shaped both tactical position and protective equipment. Because soldiers brought their own armor and weapons, the army also attracted the servants, smiths, and traders needed to support many private equipment sets.