Medieval Italian 15th Century Poleyns Leg Armors By Nauticalmart Leg armor that covers the knee (known as 'poleyns') was one of the first forms of plate armor. Poleyns were generally worn by attaching them to or over chain mail 'chausses' that either come to the knee or else extended down the leg. With the upper leg, knee protection, three buckled attachment points and outstanding design this poleyns comes complete with greaves. This is handcrafted from 18 gauge steel produced in Italy throughout the 15th century; armor of this type incorporates large and smooth glancing surfaces in its construction, the theory being that these rounded surfaces would help to deflect an opponent's weapon.