Description

Display Your Samurai Rank with Distinction and Authenticity!

The Kataginu is a traditional, vest-like garment historically worn by the ruling samurai class throughout Japan’s early Sengoku Jidai (Warring States Period), Muromachi, and Edo eras. A distinctive component of formal samurai attire, the Kataginu was typically made from the same fabric as the hakama (traditional trousers), symbolizing a warrior’s social status, rank, and clan allegiance. Open under the arms, it is designed for practicality, comfort, and ease of movement, qualities highly valued by the samurai class.

When worn with matching hakama, the complete ensemble is traditionally called a kataginu kamishimo, or simply “Kamishimo.” However, when crafted from materials that do not match the hakama, the Kataginu signifies a samurai’s lower rank or a specific allegiance to his clan or lord. In these instances, the color of the vest often corresponds to the family or clan colors under which the samurai serves.

Historically, the Kataginu was further enhanced with exaggerated shoulders during the Edo era, a style that visually demonstrated status and authority within the samurai hierarchy. At Iron Mountain Armory, our artisans meticulously recreate these vests using traditional patterns and techniques. Crafted from premium materials, each Kataginu provides a perfect balance between historical authenticity and modern comfort.

Customization is an essential aspect of our service. We offer tailored fitting to ensure the vest precisely complements your physique and preferences, including the option to extend shoulder length by an additional 30 cm for Edo-period authenticity. Whether you’re an experienced martial artist, historical reenactor, or samurai cosplay enthusiast, our customized sizing ensures an authentic, comfortable, and distinguished appearance.

Our Kataginu is not only historically accurate but also practical for modern use, suitable for martial arts, reenactment, cosplay, LARP, SCA events, or simply as unique traditional attire to incorporate into your wardrobe. Its distinctive style and historical significance make it an ideal garment for any enthusiast seeking to connect deeply with the samurai tradition.

Featured prominently in movies, television series, and renowned documentaries, including the Netflix and Smithsonian Channel docudrama “Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan,” our samurai clothing and accessories are internationally recognized for their craftsmanship and authenticity.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Authentic Historical Design: Reflects samurai social rank and traditional attire.
• Premium Quality Materials: Choice of traditional fabrics ensuring comfort and authenticity.
• Custom Fit Available: Tailored to individual measurements for optimal comfort and historical accuracy.
• Versatile Usage: Ideal for reenactments, martial arts practice, and traditional samurai-themed events.
• Optional Clan Colors: Available to match clan or family allegiance for historical accuracy.

Ordering Tips: Edo-style Kataginu vests feature shoulders extended approximately 30 cm beyond typical measurements. Specify accurate measurements or desired alterations during ordering.

Product Crafting Time: Please allow our skilled seamstress at Iron Mountain Armory 3 to 5 days to process and carefully hand make your custom Kataginu. Crafting times provided are average estimates and may vary depending on current demand and orders placed ahead of yours.

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