Sashimono were only worn on during wartime, they consisted of a small staff with an outrigger or crossbar which kept a colored banner visible from a distance to any observers. Their primary purpose was to allow for easy identification of formations in a battle by their commander and were used to identify the wearer or wearer's clan. Sashimono were worn by foot and mounted units, with some types denoting their function, type or ranks. [citation needed]