Shinobi shozoku

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Shinobi shozoku is a type of dark-coloured keikogi clothing, traditionally worn by practitioners of the Japanese martial art of ninjutsu.

It is made up of split-toed tabi boots ("jika-tabi") and socks; special trousers with double-ties which fasten at the ankles, knees and waist; a jacket with overlapping lapels which is tucked into the trousers; protective arm-and-hand sleeves; and either a scarf that serves as a mask and hood, or a separate hood and mask. An obi belt to indicate the wearer's level of kyu or dan grade may also be worn. The outfit is made of strong, dark-colored fabric, usually black cotton, fitted loosely to allow freedom of movement. The jacket usually contains an interior shuriken pocket.

Contrary to popular belief, there is no evidence that the ninjas limited themselves to dressing in all-black suits in Japanese feudal times. The classic black ninja outfit (the shinobi shozoku) is said to have derived from noh theatre. Noh prop handlers would dress in black in order to be less conspicuous to an audience as they moved props around the stage area. Another idea supporting the absence of a ninja outfit and any specific weaponry is that, if seen, they would have been identified as enemies. If captured, torture and a very slow and painful execution would probably result. Thus, historical ninja spies and assassins were far more likely to be disguised as samurai, Shinto or Buddhist monks, or peasants.

During Japanese feudal times, for night attacks Shinobi Shozoku clothing (as dictated by the situation, preference or availability) could be dark green, dark blue or dark red, depending on which offered better night camouflage with its surroundings.[1]