Simple Guide on Buying Kendo Equipment - Best Kendo Equipment | How to Wear Kendo Armor

Kendo armor is very expensive. To be honest the whole sport is very expensive. But they're ways to save money and still have a great time learning Kendo. So what are the difference between Hand stitched and Machiene stitched? By and large, hand-made (tezashi) bogu are of better quality than machine made. Additionally, the smaller the spacing between the stitching further identifies better quality.

General
1. The closer the stitching, the better the quality. However, there does come a point when the cost paid for even tighter stitching no loner warrants the additional cast. For us this is 3.0mm - 2.5 mm.

2. Trim.
Deer leather- more expensive and more likely to fade. Not as prone to cracking.

Cow leather- less expensive, not as likely to discolor. More prone to cracking.

Men
Men Gane (grill). Titanium- lighter more resistant to being bent. Most expensive.

Duraluminum (aluminum alloy)- cheaper than titanium, lighter and stronger than steel.

Steel- least expensive, heavier, most likely to be bent.

Do
Bamboo- heavier weight so it absorbs more shock. More expensive, more likely to be broken down by normal wear and travel damage.

Fiberglass- less expensive, lighter and more accepting of width adjusting, transfers more of the impacts to the body.

Kote
Synthetic leather- less expensive, more slippery.

Deer leather- wears better, more expensive.

Tare
The number of lines is supposed to indicate what level Dan. Recommend ignoring that rule, as people in the US don't have immediate access to a budoguya to upgrade after passing their next test. Treat it as merely window dressing.

Learn more about Kendo Armor Here

Care of the equipment is an integral part of kendo discipline. Maintenance is continuous and does not end when the kendo equipment is put away at the end of a practice. When components are worn or damaged, they should be promptly repaired or replaced. Some repairs can be self-performed, while others require restoration by a professional. For professional repairs, consult with a reputable kendo equipment dealer.

After practice, the bogu should be taken out of its bag and allowed to air dry. Avoid placing any parts of the bogu in direct sunlight as this will cause the leather to dry and crack and the stitching to deteriorate. A well ventilated room or an occasional airing in a shady spot outdoors is proper. Keep your bogu clean and check the manufacturers to use commercial cleaning.

Learn more about Caring your Bogu Here