The classes are not only about gear. As Infantry, you are the only one who actually get proper melee ability. As I said, heavy longbowman has 2 PS, so sniper will have 3 at best, and from what I've heard from other people, cavalry is pretty much the same in that regard. Once dehorsed, they are as usefull as archers in melee, as they highly rely on the speed bonus from their horse.
So I guess you trade a bit of defense for best offense in melee, archers tradea a bit of defense for best ranged offense and cavalry trades their melee ability on foot for best defense. Also, as Infantry, you have shields at your disposal with enough points in shield skill, which can get you out of lot of trouble. Why should infantry have the luxury of being both best in melee, an have best weapons and also having the best armor and best shields at their disposal?
So I guess you trade a bit of defense for best offense in melee, archers tradea a bit of defense for best ranged offense and cavalry trades their melee ability on foot for best defense. Also, as Infantry, you have shields at your disposal with enough points in shield skill, which can get you out of lot of trouble. Why should infantry have the luxury of being both best in melee, an have best weapons and also having the best armor and best shields at their disposal?