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Steel Knee Armour (Poleyns) with Wings, 14th-15th Century - Outlet
Step into the world of the late Middle Ages with these authentically crafted steel poleyns! Inspired by the armour of the 14th and 15th centuries, these knee cops are a key protective element for any knight or man-at-arms. Their design, featuring a characteristic side wing (fan), not only looks fantastic but also historically reflects the effort to provide maximum protection to the vulnerable knee joint. Inside, you'll find a comfortable padded liner, ensuring comfortable wear all day long at any event. Further product information ...
The following variants are currently available:
Steel Knee Armour (Poleyns) with Wings, 14th-15th Century
Practical Application
These plate poleyns are the ideal addition to your costume for LARP, historical festivals, theatrical performances, or cosplay. They perfectly complement the armour of a knight, mercenary, or any character from the Gothic period. Thanks to the leather straps, you can quickly and easily fasten them over your trousers or, for better functionality, directly onto padded chausses, where they will hold firmly in place.
Important Notice
Please note that this is a costume replica armour. These poleyns are not certified as personal protective equipment and are not intended for full-contact combat, buhurt, Battle of the Nations, or other forms of rigorous combat sports.
Detailed Product Description
Every detail has been designed with historical accuracy and functionality for costume use in mind.
Construction and Material
- Steel Protection: The poleyns are crafted from sturdy mild steel, approximately 1.2 mm (18 gauge) thick. The interior is coated with black paint to prevent corrosion.
- Protective Wing: The prominent side wing (or fan) protects the outside of the knee, a typical feature of high and late medieval armour.
- Comfort Liner: Inside, the poleyns are fitted with an approximately 9mm thick quilted padding made of black fabric, which is securely riveted to the steel plate and cushions impacts.
Fastening and Adjusting
- Leather Straps: The poleyns are secured to the leg with a cowhide leather strap (approx. 3 mm thick) that fastens with a sturdy steel buckle. Pre-punched holes allow you to easily adjust for the perfect fit.
- Additional Ties: The package also includes two leather thongs for additionally tying the poleyns to padded chausses, preventing them from slipping during movement.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Steel Thickness | approx. 1.2 mm (18 gauge) |
| Material | Mild Steel, Cowhide Leather, Textile Liner |
| Poleyn Height (over kneecap) | approx. 12.5 cm / 4.9 in |
| Side Wing Height | approx. 14.5 cm / 5.7 in |
| Outer Width | approx. 34.5 cm / 13.6 in |
| Weight (1 pair) | approx. 945 g / 2.08 lbs |
| Package Contents | 1 pair of poleyns, 2x leather thongs |
A Glimpse into History
Knee protection underwent rapid development during the Middle Ages. While warriors in the early medieval period relied on maille or leather reinforcements, the 14th century brought a revolution in the form of standalone plate knee cops, known as poleyns. Initially, these were tied onto maille chausses. Over time, they became an integral part of full plate leg armour. The side wing, as seen on this replica, is a characteristic feature of 15th-century Gothic armour, designed to deflect cuts and thrusts aimed at the vulnerable joint from the side.
A Historical Tidbit
The precise protection of the knee was so crucial that poleyns were among the first pieces of plate armour to be produced in larger, standardized quantities. A fully functional knee often meant the difference between life and death for a warrior on the battlefield.
How to Care for Your Armour
To keep your poleyns in great condition, we recommend following a few simple guidelines. Dry them thoroughly after each use. Regularly treat the metal parts with a thin layer of protective oil (e.g., Ballistol, WD-40) to prevent rust. Occasionally treat the leather straps with a leather care product to keep them from hardening and cracking. Store them in a dry, ventilated area.
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