Description

Lightweight Flexibility, Trusted by Samurai and Shinobi Alike

Gashira Tatami Karuta Yoroi is a refined form of tatami yoroi (folding armor), traditionally worn by ashigaru (foot soldiers), shinobi (ninja), and mid-ranking samurai officers throughout the Sengoku Era. The term tatami refers to the armor’s ability to fold, while karuta denotes the small square or rectangular armor plates sewn onto a fabric backing. This allowed for maximum flexibility while maintaining crucial protection across the body.

This Gashira class set includes a karuta do (cuirass), kusazuri (thigh guards), karuta sode (shoulder guards), and a karuta hachigane (armored headband). The do is further enhanced with a tate-eri (padded shoulder yoke) lined with kikko (hexagonal plating) for increased neck and upper back defense. The kote (armored sleeves) and suneate (shin guards) feature shino (splint plates) reinforced with kusari (chainmail), offering additional protection without compromising flexibility.

This armor set is ideal for warriors seeking a balance between durability, flexibility, and cost. Its design makes it not only a great option for samurai martial artists and historical re-enactors, but also a practical armor set for shinobi who may require discreet protection under clothing. The ability to adjust the armor easily allows it to fit a variety of body sizes, and it can be worn either over or beneath traditional attire.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Traditional Sengoku-Era Design: Crafted to reflect authentic mid-level samurai armor styles.
• Flexible Protection: Karuta and kusari work together to provide excellent mobility and defense.
• Complete Armor Set: Includes karuta hachigane, karuta do with tate-eri, karuta sode, kote, karuta haidate, and light suneate.
• Ideal for Ninja and Samurai Alike: Lightweight and versatile, perfect for covert missions or open combat.
• Customization Available: Choose material, color, sizing, and padding options for your ideal fit.

Shipping Information:

Each armor piece is carefully handcrafted by our expert armorers. Please allow at least 2 to 3 weeks for processing and crafting of your custom order.

Accesories:

• 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 can be worn together with the Waraji sandals
• Tabi Socks – Two toe section sock for use with sandals
• Yugake – Traditional samurai gloves

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   /