What criteria do you use when choosing a name tag (official name: name tag) to use in kendo?
You might think that they all look the same, but in fact, their performance and impression vary greatly depending on the material, purpose, and shape .

In this article, we have summarized in an easy-to-understand manner for beginners how to choose a name tag, which is essential for kendo matches and practice, and recommended materials .

table of contents

1. What is a "Tare-name"? Its official name and role
   
   
2. Rules for attaching name tags and how to do it correctly
   
   
3. How to choose the size, font, and color of text
   
   
4. Three points to consider when choosing a name tag - Recommended by purpose - Recommended by material - Recommended by shape
   
   
5. Refresh your spirit with a new name tag

1. What is a name tag?

A name tag is a name tag that is attached to the center of a kendo jacket and contains the name and affiliation of the athlete.
In kendo, everyone wears a navy blue uniform and protective gear, and when they wear masks, their faces are hidden, making it difficult to tell who is who.

Therefore, by wearing a name tag, players can be identified at a glance, even from a distance .

They are generally called "Tarename," "bib," or "name tag," but the All Japan Kendo Federation considers the official name to be "name tag."

[From the All Japan Kendo Federation (Announced in 2013)]
The correct kendo term is "Name tag (× bib, hanging name)."

2. Rules for attaching name tags and how to do it correctly

The basic rule for hanging name tags is to attach them straight to the center hanging tag .
The match rules also state that if the helmet is misaligned or tilted, it not only looks bad but is also bad etiquette.

If white armor is used, a name tag with navy blue letters on a white background may be used.
Also, some organizations have standardized logos and fonts, so be sure to check the regulations of your organization before creating one .

*Excerpt from the All Japan Kendo Federation website

3. How to choose size, font, and text color

Size guide

There are three main sizes of name tags:

When measuring, measure vertically from the bottom of the strap .

How to choose a font

Common font styles include regular script, running script, and clerical script.
Recently, it has also become popular to have calligraphers create "lucky characters" or "good luck calligraphy," as well as to bring in your own handwritten characters.

However, please note that your organization may have designated fonts .
When ordering, it is important to communicate accurately so as not to make any mistakes with kanji, such as using old characters.

Text color

In addition to solid white, you can choose from subtle variations in color , such as white with a slight golden tint, silver, or bluish white.
If you want to stand out at the game, using shiny embroidery thread will give you an elegant and luxurious look.

4. Three points to consider when choosing a name tag

When choosing a name tag, you can avoid making a mistake by looking at the following three points:

(1) Recommendations by Use

For practice

For regular practice, choose an affordable and durable type .
We recommend the Hariron Black Fabric. It is firmly bonded using a compression heat press, making it ideal for elementary school students and beginners.

For matches

In competitions and judging, a beautiful and luxurious appearance is important.
The "Mushu Authentic Indigo Dye Embroidered" is characterized by a deep navy blue color achieved through natural fermentation of indigo dye and elegant embroidery, and the more you use it, the more it develops its own character.

If you have multiple affiliations

For swordsmen who belong to two organizations , such as a company and a local sword club, we recommend the "Double-sided Clarino Name Tag."
The affiliation name can be changed on the front and back, so there is no need to bother switching them over.

For helper matches

When participating as a helper, the name on the tag will only include the name of the affiliation .
The type that can be wrapped around a regular hanging name tag is convenient.

2) Recommendations by material

Black fabric

The most common and popular for practice.
It is light, easy to handle, and offers excellent cost performance.

Authentic indigo dyed navy cloth

A traditional fabric dyed without chemical dyes, using fermented natural indigo.
It is resistant to fading and has an attractive deep navy blue color.

Bushu Authentic Indigo Dyeing

This is a traditional craft from Saitama Prefecture, characterized by its warm texture due to being hand-dyed.
The more you wash it, the brighter the color becomes, making it a high-quality material that exudes the dignity of a swordsman .

velvet

It is flexible, highly abrasion resistant, and has a glossy texture.
Recommended for those who want to create a luxurious look that stands out in the game.

(3) Recommended materials for the text

Stick-on type (Clarino Hariron)

Clarino is lightweight, water-resistant, and gives the letters a three-dimensional appearance.
Hariron is heat-pressed to prevent peeling and is recommended for those who value cost-effectiveness.

Embroidery type

It is the most luxurious and durable.
The delicate embroidery, which is made with careful attention to brush strokes, makes this a piece you can enjoy for a long time.

(4) Recommendations by shape

There are two types of hanging name tags: "tubular" and "V-stitched."

Cylindrical type : Standard, durable, and compatible with a wide range of protective gear.

V-stitch type : A clean-cut design that gives a beautiful impression. Especially recommended for matches.

5. Start fresh with a new name tag!

It is recommended that you get a new name tag when joining a new school or dojo, or when purchasing new armor.
The new name tag helps to sharpen your spirit and increase your motivation to practice.

A kendo name tag is more than just a name tag; it is an important symbol of pride and belonging .
Choose a piece that suits you best, paying particular attention to the material and font.

Summary: Key points for choosing a name tag

• Choose the one that suits your purpose (practice, match, helper)
  
  
• The most popular materials are "Genuine Indigo Dye" and "Bushu Genuine Indigo Dye."
  
  
• The embroidered type is both luxurious and durable.
  
  
• Check the rules and font specifications of your organization in advance
  
  
• Refreshing your mind by buying something new