Suneate (shin guards)

There are several kinds of sune-ate, such as shino-dzutsu, etchu, odate-agayemon, etc. The balance of advantages for the use of ordinary officers is with the kinds called etchu-shinogi and mete-kara. As usual, the left will be put on first, putting the part called abumi-zure towards the inner side of the leg and tying the cords first.

Garbutt adds: The illustration shews a type, very popular in the Middle Ages, consisting of vertical plates connected by either hinges or chain-mail, and often, though not always, lined with textile material. There is always a leather guard that is affixed to the inner side at the place that comes in contact with the stirrup when riding. The more ancient examples of suneate are of plate, often with large kneeguards attached, and were discarded in the Middle Ages as interfering with free movement.