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SKU: MPO-HOT-G
Original price was: $149.99.$109.95Current price is: $109.95.
The Hoate (頬当), also known as cheek armor, is a style of menpo (facial armor) specifically designed to cover the face from just below the eyes to below the chin, including the tare (throat guard). Developed for samurai warriors, the hoate became highly favored on the battlefield due to its balance between protection and practicality, offering coverage without hindering vision or breathing.
Originating during the Muromachi period (1336–1573), the hoate provided essential jaw and chin protection, often combined with additional armor such as a nodowa or tate for enhanced throat defense. Unlike full-face masks, the open-faced design allowed for unrestricted breathing and vision, crucial in the fast-paced combat scenarios of the time.
Traditionally, samurai used the hoate not only for face protection but also to help secure their kabuto (helmet) cords. The shinobi-no-o (helmet cords) tied around ore kugi (L-shaped posts) on the cheeks of the hoate, providing stable attachment while preventing discomfort and chafing.
Iron Mountain Armory proudly handcrafts this Gashira Class Hoate as an exact historical replica, suitable for martial arts training, reenactments, LARP, SCA, cosplay, or historical display. Customizable in a variety of paint colors, our hoate pairs beautifully with your existing kabuto or stands proudly alone as a centerpiece when displayed on one of our optional Menpo Display Stands.
Shipping Information
Each hoate is handcrafted to order. Please allow at least 1 week for processing, crafting and preparation. Your custom handcrafted item will then be ready to ship.
References: “The Samurai Armour Glossary” by Ian Bottomley & David Thatcher / “The Watanabe Art Museum Samurai Armour Collection Volume 1: Kabuto & Mengu” By Trevor Absolon
| Weight | 0.45 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 20 × 20 × 16 cm |
Hoate Gashira (Cheek Armor)
Beautiful product.
A very well constructed piece with good laqcuerwork. Surprisingly comfortable. I very very gently bent out the cheeks to fit a bit better, but that’s certainly not due to a poor design. Very communicative and helpful customer service.