Description

Defend Your Lower Armor with Strength and Precision!

The Haidate (佩楯) are one of the three principal components of Sangu armor, designed to protect the extremities of samurai warriors during feudal Japan. As combat evolved, so did samurai armor, and by the mid-Muromachi Period (~1450), Haidate underwent significant changes to accommodate the shifting demands of warfare.

Initially, many samurai found Haidate cumbersome and restrictive, often choosing speed and agility over additional protection. However, as foot combat became more prevalent over mounted warfare, these thigh guards became an essential part of a samurai’s defense, offering critical protection against slashing and glancing blows.

Evolution & Craftsmanship:

Over time, armorers enhanced the Haidate to improve comfort and functionality. Straps were added at the back to secure the guards more comfortably, and a leather loop at the front center allowed attachment to the dō (chest armor) or suspension over the shoulders like a pair of suspenders. By the late Sengoku Period, padding was incorporated along the outer edges, further improving shock absorption and protection.

Traditional Construction:

Historically, Haidate were crafted from:

• Linen, leather, brocade, and silk for the main fabric structure.
• Iron plating arranged in overlapping roof tile formations for enhanced durability.
• Kasari (chainmail) strategically sewn between armor plates for flexibility and added protection.
• Some designs spaced out the plates, incorporating kasari to allow for greater mobility.

Each Haidate was uniquely crafted based on the preferences of the samurai, balancing defense, flexibility, and comfort to suit individual combat styles.

Customization & Design Options:

Iron Mountain Armory offers a variety of traditional styles and customization options to ensure historical accuracy and personal preference:

• Material Choices: Linen, leather, brocade, or silk.
• Armor Finish: Traditional iron plating or chainmail-enhanced designs.
• Customization: Submit an image for a fully custom design.
• Edging Options:
  • Padded Edges (Edo Style) for additional comfort and reinforcement.
  • No Edging (Sengoku Period Style) for a more lightweight, flexible fit.
• Kosaru-Gawa (Leather Support Panel): Available for additional structural reinforcement.

For more insights into the history and development of Sangu armor, including the Haidate, visit our blog article, “About Sangu and Sode Armor Parts.”

Key Features & Benefits:

• Historically Accurate Design: Crafted to match traditional Muromachi and Sengoku-period armor.
• Durable & Protective: Combines iron plating, chainmail, and reinforced stitching.
• Customizable Options: Personalize materials, colors, and design styles.
• Enhanced Comfort: Optional padded edges and additional support straps.
• Versatile Functionality: Suitable for historical reenactments, martial arts, and samurai armor collectors.

Product Crafting Time:

Please allow our skilled armorers at Iron Mountain Armory an average of 5 to 8 days for processing and crafting your custom Haidate Samurai Thigh Guards. Custom designs may require additional time based on complexity.