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Channel the Samurai Spirit Through Faux Armor Hoodies

Anime News Network's merchandise coverage sponsored by Tokyo Otaku Mode.

Many an anime fan has dreamed of donning a suit of samurai armor and riding ferociously into battle, sword held aloft. But obviously, actually buying a suit of samurai armor is impractical — too expensive, too bulky, too heavy to wear. Luckily, Tokyo Otaku Mode is introducing a more convenient alternative: a line of hoodies that closely mimics samurai armor.

The project was inspired by a hoodie based on Western knight armor the team originally saw online. Over the past two years, they tested out prototypes and ultimately crafted a sweatshirt that undeniably evokes samurai armor while remaining lightweight, warm, casual, and machine washable. In addition, the hoodies come with tatemono, crests attached to the helmet to indicate the samurai's allegiance. Tokyo Otaku Mode encourages customers to make their own designs too and attach them via a button on the hood.

The hoodies incorporate several other nifty elements:

• flock patterns

• removable silk cords


• a loop to bring the sleeve over the hands


• removable shoulder pieces

• the character for "warrior" on the back


• masks attached via elastic straps

The samurai armor hoodie project was led by bamboo, vocalist for the Japanese punk rock band milktub (The Eccentric Family, Baka and Test - Summon the Beasts). It is supported by the crowdfunding website Indiegogo, where it has reached $4,585 of its goal of $50,000 in funding. They come in black, red and white and cost from $270 (for the first 30 hoodies of each color claimed) to $900 for the complete set of three hoodies and two crests. The regular price is $320.

The banners being carried are advertisements for stores.

Hoodies are also available for Himouto! Umaru-chan, Haikyu!!, and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. Anime fans still itching to try on real armor might want to start with Saber's.

[Via Indiegogo]