Sabaton

[1] 14th and 15th-century sabatons typically end in a tapered point well past the actual toes of the wearer's foot, following fashionable shoe shapes of the era.

Sabatons of the late 15th and early 16th century followed the duckbill shoes of the time, ending at the tip of the toe but often extending greatly wider.

The sabatons were the first piece of armour to be put on, and were made of riveted iron plates called lames.

Heavy or pointy metal footwear would severely hinder movement and mobility on the ground, particularly under wet or muddy conditions.

Conversely, a mounted knight's feet would be at perfect height for strikes from dismounted soldiers, and so sabatons or other foot armour would be vital when riding into battle.