Auxiliary Samurai Armor Parts

The incredible array of samurai armor parts does not stop at the larger pieces; whether
for battle or display, the auxiliary parts matter just as much.

NODOWA (Neck protector): Fastened at the back of the neck, this part is designed
to protect the throat. There are several variations; the MEGURIWA, which attached
with hooks, and the ERIWA, which used a buckle, are two examples.
WAKIBIKI (Armpit protectors): Though they may be composed of a single piece of
hardened leather or even iron, these protectors are most typically seen as rectangular
textiles, sewn to the cloth backing and covered in armor. Hanging from the shoulders,
they are designed to protect the exposed armpit area and can either be worn inside or
outside the main body of the armor.
Before the use of wakibiki sometimes we would find two plates, one on each side the
chest area: The SENDAN-NO-ITA (right side) and KYUBI-NO-ITA (left side). The
Sendan no Ita was designed to protect the chest and armpit area while riding into battle
when firing arrows. The Kyubi-no-Ita, on the other hand, was designed to protect the
heart.
MANJU NO WA: This is a compact vest featuring small connectors that go under the
armpit area from the back and attach in the front. Made up of KATA-ATE (shoulder
pads), YERI-MAWARI (collar) and Wakibiki, this vest serves to protect the upper
chest area. Before being sewn in to a backing of textile, it may be covered with Kikko
(brigandine), Karuta (small armor plates) or Kusari (chain armor).
KEGUTSU (Shoes): These short, fur-trimmed leather boots are also sometimes
termed Tsuranuki.
KOGAKE (Armored foot coverings): These foot protectors may be designed either
as a simple metal surface worn over the foot or as armored tabi shoes, made of metal
plates sewn to a deerskin foundation and a slightly heavier leather sole.
TATE-ERI: (Shoulder Pillow/Padded Collar): This standing collar, designed
specifically to shield the neck via Kikko armor, sits on a pad attached to the shoulders.