Japanese Samurai were apex warriors, superlative fighters dedicated to their daimyo, or lord, and living according to the principles of bushidō, an honour code that stressed selfless service, martial excellence, valour in battle and implacable determination. Often fighting on horseback and skilled archers, they developed a style of armour which, although changing over time, suited the dexterous combat techniques developed in Japan in the medieval and early modern eras.

Samurai Armour provides a vivid and informative guide to the many types of armour worn by Japanese warriors from the 10th to the 19th centuries. Learn about the classic o-Yoroi (‘great armour’), designed for its lightness and flexibility for firing a bow from horseback; understand the development of the haramake (“belly wrap”) armour, worn by the ashigaru men-at-arms – a new class of foot soldier that emerged during the Warring States period (1467–1615); explore the many types of classic Dō-maru, a heavy box-like armour constructed from flexible small scales of leather or metal laced into plates with cord; and see the various armoured elements used by samurai, including highly decorative kabutos (helmets), haidate (thigh guards) which were tied around the waist, and elaborate ornamental mempo (face masks) designed to reflect the personality of the wearer and strike fear into his enemies.

With 200 photographs and illustrations covering every aspect of Japanese armour, Samurai Armour provides a compact, accessible guide to this complex, highly decorative protective clothing that still fascinates modern readers.

Martin J. Dougherty is a former defence consultant, he has written numerous books on history and military history, including Vikings: A History of the Norse People, Medieval Warrior, Weapons and Fighting Techniques of the Medieval Warrior 1000–1500AD and books on personal self-defence. He lives in northern England.