Suneate (臑当, literally shin guards) are a type of armoured shin protection worn by the samurai class and their retainers during the feudal era of Japan. Suneate first started being used in the 12th century.

The tekkō (鉄甲, lit. "iron", "armor"), are weaponized stirrups and horseshoes which originated in Okinawa, Japan, and they fall into the category of "fist-load weapons".

There are several primary styles of recognized kote during the Sengoku Period. The identification was derived from the pattern of the forearm, regardless of whether the kote was entirely of one style or actually a combination of others.

The Japanese armor evolved from the armors that were used in China and Korea during those times. The Samurai armor evolved from armors known as Tanko and Keiko. The first one was used by the foot soldiers and the second one was used by the cavalry. These were the armors which led to the manufacturing of samurai armor as we know today.

Nov 1, 2022 · Tekko: Gauntlets. Haidate: Thigh guards. Suneate: Greaves. Kogake: Armored socks. Kegutsu: Boots, usually made of bearskin. Armor is designed, like weapons, with a specific idea in mind, often according to what types of attacks the wearer might face.

May 11, 2023 · Samurai armor was designed to repel common slashing attacks in close combat, and provide their wearers with speed and agility. The first armors included a helmet that protected the head and neck, a breastplate, protectors for arms and shoulders and a belly wrap.

The tekko (armor plate behind the hand), and disposable thumb plate are crafted to offer the wearer more protection without hindering hand mobility. Our Kote feature several tying methods for different styles of use.