Viking Splinted Greaves Valsgärde, 7th century

This pair of splinted greaves is made from 1.6mm steel bands riveted onto sturdy leather straps. These leather straps are equipped with steel buckles that allow them to be adjusted to the shin and calf. Simple but effective, this style of armor was a less expensive option for the late medieval soldiers who needed robust armored shin protection but could not afford the precise contours of custom-made greaves. They may lack the elegance of well-crafted plate greaves, but these splinted greaves are not to be underestimated in terms of the protection they offer. The protected area is essentially impenetrable to cuts; A lucky swipe of a blade might find the gap between the splints, but against a moving and fighting target that's easier said than done. This is a practical armor for the Medieval Men-at-Arms. More information...