Description

The Pinnacle of Folding Armor – Strength, Flexibility, and Prestige

Kumi Gashira fTatami Karuta Yoroi is an elite form of tatami yoroi (folding armor), crafted for mid to high-ranking samurai and Gashira (lieutenant) of the Sengoku Era. The word tatami refers to its folding nature, while karuta describes the small square or rectangular plates of steel sewn onto a cloth backing. This design made it lightweight, compact, and ideal for travel or battlefield adaptability.

The do (cuirass) and kusazuri (thigh guards) are formed by layering these karuta plates and linking them with kusari (iron chain mail), offering superior flexibility and comprehensive protection. In this Gashira model, all armor parts are reinforced with connecting kusari, creating an unmatched level of defense while preserving movement and comfort. More than 90 hours of handcrafting goes into each set, demonstrating a commitment to quality and tradition.

This armor set includes a karuta hachigane (armored headband), karuta do with tate-eri (shoulder yoke), ito-mono sode (shoulder guards), splint kote (sleeves), karuta no-kusari haidate (armored apron), and light suneate (shin guards). The sode (shoulder guards) come with ito-mono plating by default but can be replaced with matching karuta sode upon request. Padding and material upgrades are also available for added comfort and protection.

While highly functional and decorative, tatami yoroi such as this was also favored by shinobi (ninja), who often wore such armor discreetly beneath their clothing during infiltration or intelligence missions. The Gashira Tatami Karuta Yoroi offers a perfect balance of protection, flexibility, and historical authenticity.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Elite Sengoku-Era Design: Crafted for taisho and elite samurai ranks.
• Karuta with Full Kusari Integration: Superior defense while maintaining mobility.
• Complete Armor Set: Includes hachigane, do with tate-eri, sode, kote, haidate, and suneate.
• Custom Options Available: Choose your preferred armor style, materials, and added padding.
• Ninja-Approved Flexibility: Light enough to wear discreetly, perfect for covert missions.

Shipping Information:

Each suit is masterfully handcrafted by our senior katchû-shi (armorers). Please allow at least 1 to 2 weeks for careful processing and crafting of your order.

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

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   /