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Product description
Poleyns emerged around the second half of the 13th century and were the earliest type of plate armor added to a knight's equipment. Worn over chainmail chausses, they added an extra layer of protection for the vulnerable knees. For mounted knights, the legs were always a particularly exposed area.
The development of poleyns coincided with the rise of the shorter heater or knight's shield, which replaced the older kite shields that had extended lower to protect a rider's legs. The heavy kite shields were cumbersome in combat, making the poleyn and heater shield combination a major innovation. Poleyns continued to be used well into the 16th century.
These poleyns are based on late medieval originals. Wear them as part of a complete harness or on their own. Leather laces fasten the knee guards securely around the leg.
