Medieval Steel Leg Armour 'Merek'

Medieval Steel Leg Armour 'Merek'

This plate leg armour is the ideal gear for a wide range of activities. Whether you are an avid LARPer, a member of a historical reenactment group, a stage actor, or a film performer, you will appreciate its functionality and authentic look. With adjustable leather straps and patinated steel buckles, you can easily secure the protection for a snug fit. For maximum comfort and stability, we recommend suspending the upper straps from an arming belt or directly from your gambeson. The black anti-corrosion coating on the inside effectively prevents rust and extends the life of your armour.

A Glimpse into History

The Evolution of Plate Leg Armour

Plate protection for the legs, consisting of cuisses and poleyns, became a crucial component of a knight's harness in the 14th and 15th centuries. It represented a major advancement over earlier maille (chainmail), which offered good protection against cuts but limited defence against crushing blows. Initially, only separate poleyns were strapped over maille chausses. Over time, armourers developed more complex systems that integrated the knee protection with plates covering the thigh. This "Merek" model is inspired by this High Middle Ages period, where the focus was on combining the best possible protection with the warrior's mobility.

An Interesting Fact from History

Even the finest suit of plate armour had its weaknesses. One of the most notable was the inner and back of the thigh, which was often less protected to allow a knight to sit firmly in a horse's saddle. Attacking the unarmoured parts of the legs was a common tactic for infantry facing heavy cavalry. This is precisely why designs were constantly improved, with features like the side "fans" on the poleyns, to provide as much coverage as possible without hindering movement.

How to Care for Your Armour

To ensure your new armour serves you well for as long as possible and maintains its impressive appearance, a little care is required. Dry it thoroughly after each use, especially in damp conditions. We recommend regularly applying a thin layer of protective oil (such as WD-40 or Ballistol) to the polished exterior to prevent rust. Treat the leather straps with a leather conditioner from time to time to keep them from drying out and cracking.

Technical Specifications:

• Material: Mild Steel, approx. 1.2 mm (18 gauge)
• Fastening: Adjustable leather straps with steel buckles
• Overall Length: approx. 51.5 cm / 20.2 inches
• Circumference at Top: approx. 26 cm / 10.2 inches
• Circumference at Bottom: approx. 22 cm / 8.7 inches
• Weight (Pair): approx. 4020 g / 8.86 lbs
• Finish: Polished Steel (exterior), black anti-rust paint (interior)
• Manufacturer: A quality product by Lord Of Battles®