Description

Foldable Protection from the Shadows of Feudal Japan

The Tatami Hitaiate Kusari (folding forehead armor with chain mail) is a traditional form of tatami (folding) armor worn across the forehead and scalp by samurai and shinobi (ninja) throughout the late Muromachi and Edo eras. Designed to be lightweight, flexible, and easily concealed, it features forehead-shaped armor plates mounted on asa (hemp linen), reinforced with sewn kusari (chain mail) for added protection. Some variations include kikkō (hexagonal plates) layered within the asa, offering stronger but less flexible protection.

Unlike the rigid kabuto (helmet), the tatami hitaiate can fold flat or be shaped into a shallow bowl helmet for practical wear and compact storage. This armor evolved from the earlier hachigane (armored headband), gaining popularity among patrolling samurai, retainers, and machi-kata doshin (samurai police) during the peaceful Edo period. It was commonly used in urban environments, and due to its lightweight and concealable nature, it was also likely employed by shinobi.

Iron Mountain Armory has faithfully recreated this style of tatami armor from an original artifact dating back to the early 1600s. Using traditional methods and materials, we handcraft each piece with steel plates, so-gusari (4-in-1 linked chain mail), and sturdy asa backing. Clients can choose from various asa and kusari colors and textures. Padding and custom sizing are available by request to tailor your armor for historical displays, martial arts training, or immersive reenactments.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Authentic Historical Design: Reproduction based on an early 17th-century original.
• Collapsible & Versatile: Folds for compact storage or forms a helmet-style bowl when worn.
• Durable & Flexible Protection: Reinforced with traditional kusari sewn to asa, with optional kikkō upgrades.
• Custom Crafting Options: Choose your preferred materials, colors, and optional internal padding.
• Ideal for Training or Display: Perfect for martial artists, historical reenactors, or samurai enthusiasts.

Shipping Information:

Our dedicated armorers handcraft each Tatami Hitaiate Kusari to order. Please allow at least 1 to 2 weeks for processing and crafting of your order.

If you have any questions, please contact us but submitting an online form or clicking the “contact details” at the top of the page.