Chausses represent the evolution of leg defense within the feudal military hierarchy. Initially appearing as a single sheet of mail laced behind the leg, by the late 12th century they had evolved into complete tubular hose of mail. These garments were secured to a waist belt or 'brayer' by means of leather thongs known as points, effectively distributing the significant weight of the iron mesh across the wearer's hips. In the context of English nobility, the quality and coverage of one’s chausses served as a visual indicator of rank; the highest tier of the knightly class utilized 'mail of proof' that extended from the foot to the upper thigh.
As the tactical environment of the 13th and 14th centuries shifted toward plate transition, chausses were often augmented with 'poleyns' for the knees and later 'greaves' for the shins. In heraldic representations and effigies, the depiction of mail chausses is a crucial diagnostic tool for dating the memorial. The meticulous rendering of the mail loops on a recumbent knightly effigy signifies not only the individual's martial profession but also their adherence to the chivalric code of the 'high-born' warrior, for whom such expensive armor was a prerequisite of tenure.