Description

Fortify Your Stance with Authentic Samurai Shin Protection!

The Gashira Class Suneate (脛当て) are part of the Sangu armor set, one of the three principal components designed to protect the extremities of the samurai warrior. Suneate (shin guards) were originally crafted to shield the shins during battle while allowing for freedom of movement. These guards were securely tied above and below the calf, ensuring a comfortable yet protective fit for samurai warriors, cavalry, and foot soldiers alike. Over time, various styles of Suneate emerged, each catering to different ranks and combat roles.

At Iron Mountain Armory, we have carefully replicated traditional Suneate designs in Gashira Class quality, preserving the historical accuracy and durability required for the modern warrior.

Traditional Suneate Styles:

Kyahan Suneate – Light Shin Guards

• Design: Simple cloth shin guards featuring protective splint plates.
• Features: No hiza (knee protection), making them lightweight and flexible.
• Best For: Ideal for foot soldiers requiring basic shin protection.

Shino Suneate (Light) – Splint & Chainmail Shin Guards

• Design: Splint plates connected by Kasari (chainmail), with a cloth backing.
• Hiza Protection: Cloth knee padding sometimes reinforced with Kikko (hexagonal plates).
• Mounted Samurai: Ichi Hiza Suneate – Features leather padding on the inner calf to prevent chafing the horse.
• Foot Soldiers: Light Mittsu Hiza Suneate – Straight splints without leather, offering enhanced shin protection.

Tsutsu-Suneate / Bishamon-Suneate (Medium) – Plate Shin Guards

• Design: Shin protection made of three or more metal plates, connected by Odoshi (laces) or Chotsugai (hinges).
• Hiza Protection: Cloth knee padding with Kikko reinforcement.
• Mounted Samurai: Medium Uma Suneate – Features leather padding on the inner calf for horseback combat.
• Foot Soldiers: Medium Naka Suneate – Offers extra shin protection without leather padding.

O-Tateage no Suneate (Heavy) – Full Shin & Knee Protection

• Design: Crafted from a single plate or three riveted plates, with a large cup-shaped knee guard for maximum defense.
• Best For: Elite warriors requiring full shin and knee protection (Heavy Katai Hiza Suneate).

For more details on the history and development of Sangu armor, including Suneate, visit our blog article, “About Sangu and Sode Armor Parts.”

Key Features & Benefits:

• Authentic Traditional Design: Accurately replicates historical Suneate styles.
• Set of Two: Sold as a matching pair for both legs.
• Variety of Styles & Colors: Choose from light, medium, or heavy armor options.
• Durable & Functional: Designed for historical reenactments, martial arts, and samurai armor collections.

Product Crafting Time:

Please allow our skilled armorers at Iron Mountain Armory an average of 1 to 2 weeks for processing and crafting your Gashira Class Suneate. Custom designs may require additional time based on complexity.

References: The Samurai Armour Glossary by Ian Bottomley & David Thatcher