During the Middle Ages, mercenaries and soldiers depended suits of armor and medieval shields for added protection during battle. And as long as these shields protected rom injury during combat, were also a very convenient way to identify enemies from friends in chaotic neighborhoods close battle. These shields were made of several conceivable materials, including leather, metal and wood, and included a long piece of material on the back for men to hold onto. During this period, a number of medieval shield styles have been developed and used.