What was that French martial arts where French sailors would learn to kick from rails and stuff, (sounds silly but was practical on a ship). I know it ain't Savate, even though some places confuse the two. Anyone remember the name? Plus if you happen to know, what were some of the body mechanics involved in those crazy kicks?
From what I know savate evolved out of the art you are talking bout by combining the handwork from English pugilism I think the art you are talking about was called 'Chausson', meaning 'slipper' in French. It was developed by French sailors, and then was adapted as a street game in French coastal towns. Check out www.bridgemansavate.com or www.savate.net