Medieval armor was designed to protect knights and soldiers during battles in the Middle Ages. It evolved over time, starting with simple leather and chainmail, which offered basic protection against cuts and blows. As warfare advanced, so did armor, leading to the development of plate armor, which consisted of large metal plates that covered the body. This type of armor provided better defense against weapons like swords and arrows. Different regions and cultures had their own styles of armor. For example, the European knights wore full suits of plate armor, while samurai in Japan used a combination of metal and leather. Armor was often customized for the wearer, balancing protection with mobility to ensure effectiveness in combat.