Start with confidence
What equipment do you need for Kendo?
You can begin Kendo without buying everything at once. Most students add equipment gradually as their training develops, and each dojo may follow a different schedule.
A simple progression
What you may need at each stage
Your first classes
Learn the basics
- Comfortable athletic clothing
- A borrowed Shinai or Bokuto, if offered
- A water bottle and small towel
Regular practice
Build your essentials
- Your own Shinai and Shinai bag
- Keikogi and Hakama when approved
- Bokuto if your dojo begins kata training
When your instructor says
Begin training in Bogu
- Men, Kote, Do and Tare
- Tenugui worn beneath the Men
- Bogu bag for carrying your armour
Know the essentials
Beginner equipment explained
Shinai
The bamboo sword used for most Kendo drills and partnered practice.
When: Usually one of the first items you will own.
Bokuto or Bokken
A wooden sword used for kata and selected fundamental exercises.
When: Buy when your instructor asks you to bring one.
Keikogi
The durable training jacket worn with a Hakama and underneath Bogu.
When: Your dojo will tell you when to begin wearing the uniform.
Hakama
The traditional pleated garment worn over the lower body during practice.
When: Usually purchased together with a Keikogi.
Bogu
The Men, Kote, Do and Tare protect the target areas used in full practice.
When: Wait until your instructor says you are ready.
Tenugui
A cotton cloth wrapped around the head to absorb perspiration and improve comfort.
When: Needed when you begin wearing a Men.
Equipment bags
A Shinai bag carries swords, while a Bogu bag carries your protective equipment.
When: Add each bag when you begin carrying that equipment.
A convenient starting package
Bogushop Essential Combo
For students who are ready for regular practice, the Essential Combo brings the core uniform and practice equipment together in one package.
- Single-layer Keikogi
- T/C Hakama
- Practice Shinai
- Traditional Shinai bag
Fit matters
Choose the correct size
Use the sizing chart shown on the individual product page whenever one is provided. Product construction and fabric can affect fit.
Hakama
Height provides a starting size; waist and preferred length may also matter.
View Hakama charts →Extra reassurance
Worried about discomfort?
Kendo is a contact martial art, so you will feel some impact when you begin practising in Bogu. Correctly fitted equipment, controlled technique and good instruction provide the foundation for comfortable practice. Additional accessories can offer cushioning in common pressure and impact areas.
Men pads
Add cushioning beneath the top of the Men and can help with a small fit adjustment.
Kote protectors
Wear beneath the Kote for additional padding around the wrist and hand.
Foot protection
Kendo tabi, heel protectors and tape can help with friction, blisters and repeated impact.
Chin pads
Provide light cushioning, absorb perspiration and help with small fit adjustments.
Accessories can improve comfort, but they should not compensate for badly fitting equipment. Speak with your instructor if equipment causes sharp, unusual or continuing pain.
A quick double-check
Before placing your order
- I checked the equipment list with my instructor.
- I confirmed the correct Shinai length.
- I measured my height without shoes.
- I reviewed the product-specific size chart.
- I checked whether my dojo has uniform preferences.
- I understand the conditions for customized or embroidered items.
Common questions
Beginner equipment FAQ
Do I need Bogu for my first class?
Usually, beginners start without Bogu and add it later. Every dojo is different, so ask your instructor what will be provided and when students begin wearing armour.
Should I buy a Shinai before joining?
Contact the dojo first. They may lend you one initially and can confirm the correct length before you purchase.
How many Shinai should I own?
One is enough for many beginners. A second inspected Shinai becomes useful as training becomes regular, especially for seminars, grading and tournaments.
What colour Keikogi and Hakama should I choose?
Navy is a common choice for Kendo, but clubs may have their own preferences. Confirm with your instructor before choosing another colour.
When should I purchase Bogu?
Purchase Bogu when your instructor says your fundamentals are ready for armoured practice. This is also the right time to confirm measurements and fit.
Can Bogushop check my measurements?
Yes. Send the product link and your measurements through the contact page, and Bogushop can help you compare the available size options.
