Even beginners can feel at ease! A complete guide to wearing a kendo uniform and hakama correctly - including examples of mistakes and how to fix them

December 2025, 12

Even beginners can feel at ease! A complete guide to wearing a kendo uniform and hakama correctly - including examples of mistakes and how to fix them

Release date: August 2025, 12

Author: BUSHIZO Shibuya Showroom Manager Kudo

As the manager of the Kendo equipment specialty store BUSHIZO, I answer questions about clothing from many Kendo practitioners every day. From beginners to advanced practitioners, I support them in wearing their equipment correctly and beautifully.

For beginners who have just started kendo, the first challenge is how to put on the kendo uniform and hakama. Many people are particularly confused about how to tie the hakama strings and how to adjust the collar of their uniform.

However, proper attire is very important in kendo because:The promotion examination not only examines technique, but also the beauty of clothing and etiquette.Proper and beautiful attire represents the mindset and attitude of a kendo practitioner.

In this article, we will explain in detail with photos how to properly wear a kendo uniform and hakama, so that even beginners can put it into practice right away. We will share all the knowledge we have gained in the field, from common mistakes and how to deal with them, to tips for wearing them beautifully.

Basic knowledge of kendo uniforms and hakama
How to wear a karate uniform correctly [Step explanation]
How to wear a hakama correctly [Step-by-step guide]
Common mistakes and how to fix them
Important points for beautiful dressing
Tips for choosing the right size
How to choose by material and purpose
Q&A: Frequently asked questions about dressing

Basic knowledge of kendo uniforms and hakama - First, understand what you're wearing

In kendo practice,Dogi (dogi) on the upper body, hakama (hakama) on the lower bodyThese are not just sportswear, but important attire that embodies the spirit of martial arts.

About the uniform

Dogi are designed with ease of movement and moisture absorption in mind. Before putting them on, be sure to check the following:

Are there any frays or tears?
Is the collar wrinkled?
Are all the strings in place (two on the inside and two on the outside, a total of four)?

✓ Wearing underwear

Traditionally, it is said that nothing should be worn under a kendo uniform, but nowadays, more and more people are wearing thin underwear or T-shirts for hygiene reasons and to protect themselves from the cold.

important:It is good etiquette to make sure that your sleeves and collar are not visible. Especially in winter, when taking measures to protect yourself from the cold, be careful not to let your shirt sleeves stick out from under your judo uniform.

Basic structure of the judo uniform

About Hakama

Hakama are worn like pants after putting on the gi. Be sure to remember how to tell the front from the back.

Front:It has two long strings
Back side:It is fitted with a hard board called a "koshiita"

The meaning behind the pleats of hakama

The hakama has five pleats on the front, which symbolize the Confucian teaching of the "Five Morals and Five Constant Virtues."

Gorin:Parents and children, the loyalty of rulers and subjects, the distinction between husband and wife, the order of seniority, and the trust of friends
Gojo:Benevolence, righteousness, courtesy, wisdom, faith

Furthermore, the single pleat at the back represents the "path of sincerity,"Symbolizing the importance of bushido and courtesyThe hakama is not just clothing, but an important element that embodies the spirit of kendo.

The difference between the front and back of the hakama

How to wear a karate uniform correctly [Step explanation]

The uniform has four strings on the inside and outside. Wearing it in the correct order will keep the collar neat and tidy, and prevent the uniform from coming undone during practice.

✓ Things to check before wearing

Check that the strings are not tangled
Check the front and back of the uniform
It's easier to check if you wear it in front of a mirror.

Step 1: Put your arms through the sleeves

First, put your arms through both sleeves.

Make sure your shoulders are aligned properly and that your sleeves are not pulled up. Ideally, your sleeves should be long enough to cover your wrists.

Step 2: Tie the inner strings

The string on the inside of the right body and the string on the left sideBowI will.

confirmation point

The knot is on the left side of the body
Check that the string is not twisted
Moderate tightness (not too tight)

Step 3: Tie the outer strings

Place the left side on top and tie the string on the left side with the string under the right breast.BowI will.

⚠ Examples of things you should absolutely avoid

❌ Wearing it with the left side in front (left side down, right side up) → This is the way a deceased person would wear it, so it is a no-no.
❌ Tying your hair vertically → It looks bad and is considered rude
❌ The knot is in front → Bring the knot to the side (side)

Step 4: Final check of the collar

Check the following in the mirror:

✓ Right front(Right side is on the bottom, left side is on the top)
✓ CollarIs it snug against the back of your neck?
✓ Left/right balanceIs it in order?
✓ Wrinkles and distortionsIs there any
✓ KnotIs it tied in a horizontal knot (bow)?

Correctly worn judo uniform collar

How to wear a hakama correctly [Step-by-step guide]

Putting on a hakama is the most difficult part for beginners. We will explain step by step how to tie the front and back strings.

✓ Preparation before wearing

Make sure you don't mix up the front and back (front = long string, back = waist board)
Check that the strings are not tangled
Arrange the pleats

Front donning instructions

Step 1: Put on the hakama

HakamaLike pantsPlace one foot in each hole on the left and right.

Check the divider in the middle and make sure to place your feet on either side. Be careful not to place both feet on the same side.

Step 2: Determine the position of the obi string

Hold the long front string and place the obi string around your waist.

Position of the webbing

Male/General:Below the belly button
Women and children:The narrowest part of your waist (slightly above is also acceptable)

Step 3: Cross at the back

Cross the front strings over the back.

The key is to tighten the strings so that the obi does not hang down. Tightening it firmly at this point will make the rest of the process easier.

Step 4: Cross in front

Cross the strings you brought back in front to form an "X".

Then, bend the string that went under the "X" and place both pieces behind you.

Step 5: Tie a bow at the back

Pass the outermost string between the string that goes around your waist and your back.

It may be difficult to thread the string if you are not used to it, but try to work calmly.BowI will.

Step 6: Insert the spatula into the wainscot

Lift the waist board and insert the spatula on the back between the waist and the string.

✓ How to insert the spatula

The spatula should be inserted from top to bottom. If it is not inserted firmly, the waistboard will fall off during practice.

Back wearing instructions

Step 7: Bring the back string to the front

Bring the shorter back string to the front and cross it over.

Step 8: Tie the knot

Pass the top string through your stomach and between all the strings.

Tighten it tightly,Secure knot (Mamusubi)The key is to use a tight knot that is difficult to come undone, rather than a bow.

Step 9: Disposing of excess string

Pass the excess string under the side strings and tuck it behind the waistboard.

Make sure to neatly arrange the strings so that they are not visible from the outside.

Step 10: Final check

Viewed from the side,Slanting front and rising backMake sure it is a silhouette of the character.

Final checklist

✓ The hem is lower in the front
✓ The strings are not visible from the outside
✓ The wainscot is securely fastened
✓ The folds are neat
✓ No wrinkles in the uniform

Common mistakes and how to fix them

We have compiled a list of common mistakes beginners make and how to avoid them. Knowing these beforehand will help you dress smoothly.

Mistake 1: The collar of the gi is lifted up

Cause	The size is too big or the laces are too loose
approach	Choose the right size judo uniform. Before tying the strings, make sure the collar is firmly placed behind your neck.

Mistake 2: The hem of the hakama is too long/too short

If it's too long	The belt may get tangled around your feet, causing you to fall. Lower the belt or buy a new one with the correct size.
If it's too short	Your leg movements are clearly visible and it looks awkward. You need to buy new ones in the correct size.
Ideal length	The length should cover the top of the foot, the toes a little, and the ankle completely.

Mistake 3: The hakama is too high in the front

Cause	The obi is tied too high (above the waist)
approach	Tie the obi below the belly button (at the waist). Women and children should avoid tying it too high.

Mistake 4: Your hakama slips down during practice

Cause	The front string is not tight enough or the spatula is not inserted deep enough.
approach	Tighten the front strings firmly when crossing them over the back. Insert the spatula securely.

Mistake 5: The knot in the string is vertical

Cause	The bow tying procedure is incorrect
approach	After tying, adjust the loop so that it faces horizontally (left and right) instead of vertically. Practice repeatedly to find your own way of tying.

Mistake 6: Wrinkles on the back of the gi

Cause	The uniform is not ready before putting on the hakama
approach	After putting on the hakama, pull the gi from the back and sides to remove any wrinkles. Adjust the gi from under the hakama and from the sides.

Important points for beautiful dressing

Not only wearing it correctly, but also wearing it beautifully will greatly improve your dignity as a kendo practitioner. Please keep the following points in mind.

Tip 1: Wear it with good posture

By keeping your back straight and in the correct posture when putting on your uniform and hakama, your uniform and hakama will look beautiful and natural. If you wear them with a hunched back, the collar will easily become loose.

Tip 2: Check in the mirror frequently

Use a mirror to check each step of the dressing process, especially the following points:

Symmetry of the neckline
The amount of hem of the hakama falling in front
How to arrange pleats
Overall silhouette

Point 3: Sleeve length of the judo uniform

When you put on the gloves,There should be about 1cm of space between your wrist and your hand.If the sleeves are too short, too much skin will be visible, and if they are too long, it will be difficult to put on the gloves.

Point 4: Be mindful of the pleats of your hakama

By properly arranging the five pleats in the front and one in the back, the overall appearance of the hakama will change dramatically. Be sure to check the pleats before practice and correct any that are out of place.

Point 5: Regular maintenance

No matter how properly you wear your uniform and hakama, they will not look beautiful if they are damaged. Check the following regularly.

Repairing frayed or torn items
Proper washing and drying
Ironing (especially the pleats of hakama)
Checking for deterioration of strings

Tips for choosing the right size

Even if you know how to wear it properly, if the size is not right, it will not look beautiful. Choosing the right size is important.

Choosing the size of your judo uniform

Kendo uniforms are different from regular clothes.Number (00-5)When choosing a size, consider the following points:

Things to consider	Details
height	This is a basic guideline. Example: If you are 160cm tall, size 2 is the standard.
Physique	If you have a sturdy build, consider going up one size.
Arm length	Ideally, the sleeves should cover your wrists.
Sex	Women often choose smaller sizes than men

⚠ Points to note

Cotton judo uniforms may shrink after washing. When purchasing for the first time, we recommend choosing a slightly larger size and checking the fit after washing.

Choosing the size of your hakama

The size of your hakama is even more important than your judo uniform. If the length is not right, it can hinder your movements during practice and increase the risk of falling.

How to measure

Measure from your waist (where you tie the obi) to your ankles. Choose your size based on this measurement.

Ideal length

✓ Ideal:The top of the foot is covered and the toes are slightly visible.
✓ Minimum:Length that covers the ankles
❌ NG: Ankles are visible (too short)
❌ Don't: Dragging on the floor (for too long)

✓ Online shopping advice

If you are ordering online, be sure to measure your waist to ankle length before ordering. Many kendo equipment specialty stores have samples available to try on, so if you are unsure, we recommend visiting the store and checking them out.

How to choose by material and purpose

Kendo uniforms and hakama are made from a variety of materials, each with its own unique characteristics. By choosing the right material for your purpose, you can achieve both comfort and economy.

Main materials for judo uniforms and hakama

Material	Characteristics	Benefit	Demerit	Suitable uses
綿素材	Traditional materials	Excellent sweat absorption It has a luxurious feel There is a sense of weight	It takes a long time to dry after washing Shrinks easily	Rank promotion examination Official Match martial arts demonstration
ジャージ素材	Modern functional materials	Lightweight and easy to move around in Easy to wash Dries easily	Lacks luxury	Daily practice Beginners Summer practice
テトロン (chemical fiber)	ポリエステル系	Inexpensive and durable Highly breathable Easy to use	Less absorbent than cotton	練習用 Growing students If you need multiple copies

Recommended combinations for each purpose

Beginners and growing students

First,Jersey or Tetron materialis recommended. It is easy to handle and can be resized economically as your child grows.

Dan holders and examination candidates

For regular practiceジャージ素材, for judging and competitionsCotton material (true indigo dye)When,Have multiple sets depending on the purposeI recommend that.

Recent trends

in recent years,Indigo-dyed synthetic fiber kendo uniformThere are also more and more products that look similar to cotton but are easy to handle. Some are of a quality that can be used for formal events, so it is worth considering as an option.

Q&A: Frequently asked questions about dressing

Q1: What should I wear under my judo uniform?

A:Originally, it was customary to wear nothing at all, but nowadays many people wear thin underwear and a T-shirt.Do not show through sleeves or collarEspecially in winter, choose a long-sleeved inner layer so that the sleeves do not stick out from under your uniform.

Q2: The strings on my hakama come undone easily.

A:The basic rule is to tie the front string in a bow and the back string in a tight knot (square knot). If the string still comes undone, please check the following.

Make sure you tighten the laces before tying them
Is the knot too loose?
Check that the laces are not worn out (consider replacing old laces)

Q3: My judo uniform shrunk after washing.

A:Cotton judo uniforms are particularly prone to shrinkage. Please try the following measures.

After washing, stretch the garment while it is still wet to reshape it.
Dry naturally in the shade
Choose one size larger when purchasing
For the first wash, wash gently by hand or in a laundry net.

Q4: Is there any difference in how women wear it?

A:The basic way to wear it is the same as for men, but there are some differences:

The obi belt of the hakama is often placed slightly higher (at the narrow part of the waist).
Choose a uniform size that is smaller than the standard for men
Adjust the tightness of the laces to suit your body type

Q5: Do you have any tips for teaching children?

A:The following methods are effective:

At first, have an adult help you, but gradually let your child learn to do it on their own.
It's easier to remember if you teach "right front" as "putting your right hand in your pocket"
To learn how to tie your shoelaces, first practice tying a regular bow.
Get into the habit of checking yourself in the mirror
Praise them when they succeed and raise their awareness of how they dress.

Q6: What should I check before practice?

A:Always check the following items:

Is the collar facing right-front?
Does the hem of the hakama slope downward in front?
Is the string tied tightly?
Are the folds in order?
Are there any tears or rips in the uniform or hakama?
Are there any wrinkles or distortions overall?

Summary: Proper attire takes your kendo to the next level

In Kendo, not only do you improve your technique,A spirit of respecting etiquette and good appearanceWearing a kendo uniform and hakama correctly is the basis for showing respect to your opponent, and is also an important point in rank examinations.

To summarise what we have covered in this article, it can be summarised as follows:

Summary of important points

How to wear the uniform:Right front (right bottom, left top), tied in a bow
How to wear a hakama:The front strings are tied in a bow, the back strings are tied in a tight knot, and the hem is lowered in the front
Size selection:Consider not only your height but also your build, so trying it on is ideal.
Material selection:Use them according to the purpose (practice and examination)
Daily care:Regularly check for fraying and tears, and wash properly
Check your outfit:Always check in the mirror and ask your teacher and classmates to check

The kendo uniform that "I just wore for no particular reason"Just by getting it right, your appearance will change dramatically, giving you a more dignified and trustworthy look.It may take some time at first, but with repeated practice, you will naturally be able to wear it beautifully.

Kendo practice begins the moment you put on your uniform before entering the dojo. Carefully performing each movement and preparing your mind is the first step to improving your technique.

Please take this opportunity to review your own attire.More beautiful and more emotional kendoTry to aim for this. Proper attire will definitely take your kendo to the next level.

At the BUSHIZO Shibuya showroom, we also accept consultations regarding clothing.

If you have any questions about your size, such as "I don't know which size is right for me," "I want to try it on," or "I want to be shown how to wear it," please feel free to visit our store or contact us. Our experienced staff will provide you with thorough support.

BUSHIZO Shibuya Showroom

📍 Shibuya TY Building 7F, 1-27-10 Higashi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

10 minutes walk from the East Exit (C2 Exit) of Shibuya Station on the JR Line and Tokyu Toyoko Line
12 minutes walk from the west exit of Ebisu Station on the JR and Hibiya lines
10 minutes walk from Daikanyama Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line

⏰ Hours:

Saturday and Sunday: No reservation required, free entry 11:00-18:00
Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays: Advance reservations required (at least one day in advance)
Regular holiday: Tuesday and Wednesday

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Even beginners can feel at ease! A complete guide to wearing a kendo uniform and hakama correctly - including examples of mistakes and how to fix them

Even beginners can feel at ease! A complete guide to wearing a kendo uniform and hakama correctly - including examples of mistakes and how to fix them

table of contents

Basic knowledge of kendo uniforms and hakama - First, understand what you're wearing

About the uniform

About Hakama

The meaning behind the pleats of hakama

How to wear a karate uniform correctly [Step explanation]

Step 1: Put your arms through the sleeves

Step 2: Tie the inner strings

Step 3: Tie the outer strings

Step 4: Final check of the collar

How to wear a hakama correctly [Step-by-step guide]

Front donning instructions

Step 1: Put on the hakama

Step 2: Determine the position of the obi string

Step 3: Cross at the back

Step 4: Cross in front

Step 5: Tie a bow at the back

Step 6: Insert the spatula into the wainscot

Back wearing instructions

Step 7: Bring the back string to the front

Step 8: Tie the knot

Step 9: Disposing of excess string

Step 10: Final check

Common mistakes and how to fix them

Mistake 1: The collar of the gi is lifted up

Mistake 2: The hem of the hakama is too long/too short

Mistake 3: The hakama is too high in the front

Mistake 4: Your hakama slips down during practice

Mistake 5: The knot in the string is vertical

Mistake 6: Wrinkles on the back of the gi

Important points for beautiful dressing

Tip 1: Wear it with good posture

Tip 2: Check in the mirror frequently

Point 3: Sleeve length of the judo uniform

Point 4: Be mindful of the pleats of your hakama

Point 5: Regular maintenance

Tips for choosing the right size

Choosing the size of your judo uniform

Choosing the size of your hakama

How to measure

Ideal length

How to choose by material and purpose

Main materials for judo uniforms and hakama

Recommended combinations for each purpose

Beginners and growing students

Dan holders and examination candidates

Recent trends

Q&A: Frequently asked questions about dressing

Q1: What should I wear under my judo uniform?

Q2: The strings on my hakama come undone easily.

Q3: My judo uniform shrunk after washing.

Q4: Is there any difference in how women wear it?

Q5: Do you have any tips for teaching children?

Q6: What should I check before practice?

Summary: Proper attire takes your kendo to the next level

BUSHIZO Shibuya Showroom

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