Iron Greaves

Trivia
Greaves are actually not boots but shin guards, similar to those worn nowadays by soccer players but made from sturdier materials, often metal. Since the shin bone is very close to the surface of the skin, it can easily be damaged by attacks, further heavily hampering the attacked soldier. This shins were protected by greaves that were made from hard or tough materials (bronze, iron, wood) on the outside and softer padding on the inside.