What is greaves?

Greaves are a type of protective armor used to cover the lower legs, particularly the shin area. They were commonly worn by soldiers and warriors in ancient times to protect their legs from weaponry such as swords and arrows.

Greaves were typically made from materials such as leather, bronze, or iron and were fastened to the legs with straps or buckles. They were often worn in combination with other pieces of armor, such as helmets, cuirasses, and bracers, to provide full body protection in battle.

In ancient Greece and Rome, greaves were known as "cnemides" and were worn by infantry soldiers as well as cavalry troops. They were also used by medieval knights during the Middle Ages as part of their armor ensemble.

Today, greaves are still used in historical reenactments, cosplay, and costume design to recreate the appearance of ancient warriors and soldiers. They are also sometimes used in modern sports like martial arts and fencing as protective gear for the lower legs.