While the Furnace needs a nerf, a simple weapon switch like in D2 would be a good addition imo.
For those who weren't there: You had two weapon+offhand inventory slots and a button to toggle between setup I and II. So you could switch from S/S to 2h for example. At that time, most rpgs had such an option, so I don't see a reason why it shouldn't be allowed. Switching from one weapon to another isn't as difficult as removing your chest armor mid-combat
About the shrine bracers and others: I don't have an elegant solution for that, but instant armor-switch is not one imo.
For those who weren't there: You had two weapon+offhand inventory slots and a button to toggle between setup I and II. So you could switch from S/S to 2h for example. At that time, most rpgs had such an option, so I don't see a reason why it shouldn't be allowed. Switching from one weapon to another isn't as difficult as removing your chest armor mid-combat
About the shrine bracers and others: I don't have an elegant solution for that, but instant armor-switch is not one imo.
http://eu.battle.net/d3/en/profile/Sol77-2972/hero/66110450