Gothic Plate Leg Armour, 15th Century, 1.5mm Steel

Gothic Plate Leg Armour, 15th Century, 1.5mm Steel

Superb Protection from Thigh to Shin

This knightly leg harness consists of three main, excellently articulated parts:

• Cuisse (Thigh Guard): Protects the large and vulnerable area of the thigh. The upper edge features a leather tab with eyelets for easy and secure attachment to an arming doublet (gambeson) or belt.
• Poleyn (Knee Guard): The articulated knee protection is a masterpiece of medieval armour-making. It is fully mobile thanks to riveted joints and is equipped with a prominent side wing (or fan) to shield the vulnerable side of the knee joint.
• Greave (Shin Guard): Covers the shin from the front and partially from the sides. Its shape extends downwards to also protect part of the instep. The entire set is fastened with robust leather straps and steel buckles.

What Is This Armour For?

Thanks to its 1.5mm (16 gauge) steel construction, this leg armour is an ideal choice for a wide range of activities. You'll find it perfect for HEMA, LARP events, theatrical performances, cosplay, or as an impressive part of your collection or historical costume. It is designed to withstand the rigours of contact-oriented, yet controlled, combat.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: This armour is not rated or designed for full-contact combat sports such as Buhurt (HMB, Battle of the Nations, etc.). Its material thickness does not meet the strict regulations required for these disciplines.

Product Specifications

Historical Context: A Knight's Foundation

In the 14th and 15th centuries, the zenith of plate armour, leg protection was crucial. For a mounted knight, legs were an easy target for infantry, while for a dismounted man-at-arms, they were constantly at risk in the press of battle. The Gothic style of armour, developed primarily in Germany and Italy, was characterised by its elegant lines and excellent mobility. Features like the articulated poleyns with side wings are hallmarks of this period, which perfectly blended protection with functionality.

Did You Know?

In the 15th century, a full, custom-made suit of plate armour cost the equivalent of a small farm or a luxury town house. It was not only vital protection but also a huge symbol of wealth and social status. To own plate leg armour was to belong to the battlefield elite.

How to Care for Your Armour

To ensure your armour serves you for as long as possible and retains its shine, follow these simple rules:

1. After each use, dry the armour thoroughly to prevent rust.
2. Regularly treat the steel parts with a thin layer of protective oil (e.g., WD-40 or Ballistol).
3. Periodically condition the leather straps with a leather care product to prevent them from hardening and cracking.
4. Store the armour in a dry, well-ventilated space.