Gardbraces

By Crusader1307

These developments were simply, additional plating – normally designed to provide extra armor protection to the wearer's back. Contoured to fit the curve of the upper back and shoulders, Gardbraces were held in place was leather strapping (to allow some mobility). The helped protect from downward slashes form Longswords and Battle Axes. They were at their height during the 12th and 13th Centuries. Gardbraces added more weight, hence the quick replacement with leather or related lighter components. Garbraces were still used as an armor component for Jousting.