Swords, Armor, and Uniforms
Kendo equipment is generally very durable and lasts a long time if taken care of properly. We use different swords for sparring and for kata (forms). Armor is necessary after about a year of practice, and the uniform after about half a year of practice. These are loose guidelines and with regular practice, some students will progress more quickly.
Swords
Shinai
We use these for suburi warmup exercises, striking practice, and keiko sparring.
Bokuto
We use solid wooden swords for kata (forms). There is a long sword representing a katana, as well as a short sword, or shoto.
Uniform
Keiko-gi
This is the top part of the uniform. Traditionally these are dyed with indigo, but there are modern machine washable uniforms.
Hakama
This is the bottom part of the uniform. It covers the legs for protection and to hide the movement of your legs.
Armor / Bogu
Men
The head armor piece. The helmet has a protective grate with a slightly wider opening for the eyes. There are two parts of it that are meant for valid impacts. The top and below on the neck.
Ko-te
The wrist and hand armor. This is meant to be struck on the top of the wrist. It also adds protection to the hands.
Do
This armor protects the chest. It is meant to be impacted on the left or right side.
Ta-re
Protection for the groin and hips. Usually displays the name and dojo on a zek-ken that is attached to the ta-re. It is not a valid striking target.