Description

Traditional Comfort & Protection Beneath the Surface

The Manchira is a traditional auxiliary chest armor worn beneath the dō (cuirass) by samurai during the Sengoku and Edo eras. Crafted to be soft, flexible, and highly protective, it serves as a discreet layer of armor whether beneath your full yoroi (armor set) or worn alone beneath a kimono. Lightweight yet durable, the manchira can also act as its own standalone dō, offering excellent torso protection without hindering movement.

This armor is constructed with layered asa (hemp linen) or brocade, concealing a lattice of kikkō (hexagonal plates) sewn between the layers. These plates form a tight interlocking shield capable of dispersing slashes and resisting stabs. The manchira is worn separately from the dō, allowing quick replacement, cleaning, or repair without removing the full cuirass—ideal for warriors on the move or off the battlefield.

Historically, the manchira was also favored by wealthy merchants, travelers, and is believed to have been adopted by shinobi (ninja) for covert missions. Its sleek form allowed it to be worn discreetly under traditional clothing, offering hidden defense without drawing attention.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Custom Tailored Fit: Crafted to your specific chest, waist, and torso measurements for optimal comfort and functionality.
• Flexible Kikkō Plating: Steel hexagonal plates sewn into linen for light, reliable protection against cuts and thrusts.
• Optional Padding Upgrade: Add interior padding for protection from blunt strikes or training scenarios.
• Versatile Usage: Ideal for reenactors, martial artists, budo practitioners, or those seeking modern-day discreet protection.
• Traditional Styling: Choose from a variety of materials, patterns, and color combinations to match your style or armor set.

Please Note: This product is for the manchira (dō) only. Kote (armored sleeves) and suneate (shin guards) sold separately.

Ordering Tips:

• 4 / 5 – Chest / Waist Size: Order 2 cm larger for better comfort and mobility.
• C – Shoulder Drop: Measure from where the chest meets the shoulder.
• D – Neck to Navel: Measure from the base of the neck to your navel.
• E – Side Drop: Begin 5 cm below the armpit for the best comfort and protection.

Shipping Information:

Our artisans will carefully process and craft your custom manchira. Please allow at least 1 to 2 weeks for processing and crafting of your order.

Accessories:

• Hikitate Eboshi – Add a traditional cloth hat to your order, traditionally worn by Samurai
• Sarashi Belt – A traditional long cotton belt, used by Samurai to to secure their katana
• Waraji Sandals – Bamboo straw sandals commonly used by samurai
• Waraji-Gake – Traditional type of Japanese sock that is to be worn together with the Waraji sandals
• Tabi Socks – Two toe section sock for use with sandals
• Yugake – Traditional samurai gloves

If you are unsure of any terms, please visit our Glossary List . If you have any questions, please review our FAQ page or Contact Us directly.

References: Arms and Armor of the Samurai: The History of Weaponry in Ancient Japan  /    The Samurai: Warriors of Medieval Japan, 940-1600  /  Samurai: The Code of the Warrior   /