The cnémides (of the Greek : knêmis ) is a protection measure of the tibia S used during the Antiquité in Greece.

Realized starting from sheets of Bronze hammered and possibly decorated, these leggings are formed anatomically for each combatant: adapted to the morphology of this one, the elasticity of metal maintain them in place around the calves and do not require thin straps of fixing. Intended to protect the infantrymen heavily armed like the Hoplite S at the time of the bodies with body, the cnémides recover the whole of the lower part before legs, since the articulation of the ankle until - above Genou and supplement the defensive armament made up by the Aspis, the Cuirasse and the helmet, not leaving thus more any part of their body exposed to the adversary.

For the hoplites, citizens resulting from the three first classes censitaires, the cnémides were to be acquired just like the remainder of the equipment to the expenses of the combatant.

With the the Middle Ages, the role is taken again by the Grève S.