How to choose your Kendogi & Hakama

Kendogi cut

Classic Cut (Kendogi)

The Kendogi classic cut is the one used on all the jacket offered on KuSakuraShop. The classic cut is similar to the Judo cut, featuring a collar that is as long as the jacket itself, making it more solid and durable.

Which Kendogi Model ?

Light, Standard or Heavy ?

For Kendo practice, except in some special cases, (overheated Dojos, practice without armor etc.) it is recommended to practice with a relatively thick jacket that well cushions the Himo (cords) and protects from strikes that accidentally hit out of the armor.
In the end, concerning the practice of Kenjutsu and Kobudo, it depends on the type of practice and your preferences.

Which color: White or Aizome ?

In Kenjutsu and Kobudo, depending on the schools, all colors are possible. Please contact your teacher for more information.
In Kendo, the "standard" color is navy blue or more traditional Aizome (Indigo). Generally, it is said that White Kendogi are destined to children and women. In fact, anybody can wear them, but they need more care because they will get dirty easier.

Choosing your Hakama Size

Hakama measurements system

As many of traditional Japanese equipement, like for Shinai, the old Japanese system of measurement is used. Regarding Hakama, the "Kujira-shaku" system is used.

1 Kujira-shaku = 3.79 cm - A Hakama size 26 is therefore 26 x 3.79 cm = 98.54 cm

This length is measured from the bottom of the front strap to the bottom of the Hakama at its center.

Hakama traditional & modern fitting

Traditionally, Hakama should fall just above the external ankle, the malleolus.
To make your choice, we recommend you to try a fellow Kenshi's Hakama and check its length, depending on your preferences but also on your body type (including the position of your hips and the length of your legs).

Finally, please note that this size system (25, 26, 27 etc.) is mainly used in Japan. When you try the Hakama of a friend, make sure that it is a "made in Japan" Hakama, or measure the front yourself.

Difference between Men and Women Hakama

All the Hakama are unisex, but it exists a specific way to wear a Hakama depending if you are a man or a woman. Generally, men wear Hakama just over the hips, while women wear it at the middle of the waist. So do not forget to take it into account in your purchase decision. If you have any doubt do not hesitate to Contact us.

Which Hakama Model ?

Synthetic fabric Hakama

Synthetic models are easier to maintain, have extremely low bleed through (or does not have any discoloration problems at all), then pleats last longer, and they are usually lighter than cotton models. However, KuSakura only offers Tetron Hakama. All the Tetron Hakama offered by KuSakura are made with the same percentage of polyester and rayon, respectively 65% and 35%, a perfect balance between flexibility and durability.

Cotton Hakama

The 100% Cotton models are more difficult to maintain and should be carefully folded after each class. They are heavier and slower to dry. However, they are more "traditional" and almost ripstop. Moreover, the models offered are all in Japanese Aizome (organic indigo), and dyied in the Japanese traditional way.