Splinted Leg Armour "Sir Thomas" – Red Suede, 14th Century

Splinted Leg Armour "Sir Thomas" – Red Suede, 14th Century

Construction and Historical Context

While Victorian scholars mistakenly believed in "studded armour," we now know this was actually splinted construction. Hidden beneath the surface of high-quality red suede leather are vertical steel strips (splints) securely riveted to the carrier layer. From the outside, you only see the elegant leather and decorative flower-shaped brass rivets, while steel protects you from within. The knee is guarded by a solid steel poleyn with side wings covering sensitive ligaments.

Fit and Installation

This armour does not enclose the leg entirely but protects the front and sides, ensuring comfort in the saddle and during foot combat. It secures to the leg using straps and buckles at the back.

Important Installation Notice: These legs will not stay up solely by tightening the straps around the calf and thigh. The design requires suspension from a belt or arming doublet:

• You must punch holes in the upper leather cuff (using a leather punch).
• Tie the legs to your arming belt (C-belt) or directly to your padded chausses/gambeson using arming points (leather laces).
• Use a reliable knot (e.g., a figure-eight knot) to prevent the armour from slipping down during combat.

Technical Specifications

Safety and Care

Although the 1.4 mm steel provides solid protection, this armour is primarily designed for stage fencing and reenactment. It is not constructed for full-contact sports like Buhurt (HMB), where extreme impacts could damage the riveting or leather. For your safety, we recommend wearing padded chausses under this armour.

Product Care: The steel parts are made of mild steel and may rust. Treat them regularly with oil (e.g., WD-40 or mineral oil). Clean the suede with a leather brush, and if it gets wet, let it dry slowly at room temperature.