Jinbaori Ko-Gashira
(Samurai Vest)

Ko-Gashira Jinbaori is crafted for the mid ranking samurai in charge of organizing troops and preparing them for battle.  A Jinbaori (陣羽織 surcoat / samurai vest) is a type of haori (kimono style jacket) and meant to be worn over armor. It helps protects the samurai and his armor from the elements and became a common fashion around 1550 A.D..  Over the course of the Sengoku Period, it evolved, becoming more elaborate and decorative with various motifs as an expression of the Samurai’s wealth, power and aesthetic taste.  Although typically worn by higher ranking samurai, the jinbaori could be worn without restriction, for any samurai class on and off the battlefield. The jinbaori were often waist length, without sleeves, featured a high open collar going down the front and usually with support material on the shoulders to help them lay straight.  Traditionally the jinbaori can be made from any material. Most common materials were wool, brocade, cotton and later silk. We also offer the option of adding kikko (armored plating) to the top shoulder section.

We offer highly customizable Jinbaori, which can you can design to match many of our suits of armor.  Our samurai clothing and accessories are featured in the docudrama “Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan” by Netflix & the Smithsonian Channel.

Features: Ko-Gashira Jinbaori

• Traditional design
• Fully customizable
• Custom sizing

Custom measurements you provide are for reference only. Alterations may be made for a proper traditional fit as deemed necessary by our seamstress

Before Ordering Please Note: Measure your chest with the clothing you will be wearing under it.  If you plan to wear with a Traditional Hitatare add 5 cm to your actual chest size.  If you plan to wear your Jinbaori with a yoroi (armor), please add 10 cm to your actual chest size. For lengths, we recommend measuring from your shoulder to mid-thigh.  If you have a larger than average chest, add a few extra cm to the front length.  Your sizes are for reference only, as each person has their own personal preference on how they like their jinbaori to fit, we can not guarantee a perfect fit.  Also if you request a mon to be added, please know we use heat transfer vinyl decals, we do not do embroider.  Standard size fits a person of 5′  8″ (176 cm) tall and 106 cm chest. Jinbaori are usually worn loose fitting.

References: “Armor Surcoat (Jinbaori),” British Museum Gallery Labels. – “Samurai Class Men’s Winter Formal Surcoat,” LACMA, January 2015.