[2026 Edition] The Complete Guide to Choosing a Shinai | A thorough explanation of size, center of gravity, and materials for beginners and advanced players

December 2026, 2

Author:BUSHIZO Shibuya Showroom Manager Kudo

release date:December 2026, 1

Update date:December 2026, 2

When starting Kendo, the first equipment you need to purchase is a bamboo sword. At first glance, they all look the same, but in fact,Length, center of gravity, handle shape, materialThere are various differences, such as:

If you use a shinai that doesn't fit you, it will be difficult to swing and your striking will be less stable, which will have a major impact on your performance. On the other hand, by finding the perfect shinai for you, you will be able to use it naturally, as if it were an extension of your arm.

In this article,Tips for choosing the perfect Shinai for beginners and advanced playersWe will explain this in an easy-to-understand manner from the perspective of a kendo equipment specialty store.

What is a Shinai? Basic Structure and Mechanism
Names and Functions of Each Part of the Shinai
Official Bamboo Sword Regulations [2026 Edition]
How to choose the right size for your bamboo sword based on your age and build
Characteristics of Shinai due to differences in center of gravity
Handle shape and how to choose it
Choosing the handle length
How to choose the thickness of the pattern
Differences depending on the material of the bamboo sword
Recommended bamboo swords for beginners
How to maintain your bamboo sword
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary: Find the Shinai that's right for you

1. What is a Shinai? Basic Structure and Mechanism

The bamboo sword is called a "four-part bamboo sword."Four pieces of bamboo joined together with a leather part.

Basic Structure of the Shinai - How the Four-Part Shinai Works

Structural parts

Shinai mechanism parts - handle leather, tip leather, knot, etc.

The bamboo sword is made up of the following parts:

① Handled leather:White leather covering the grip
② Sakigawa (tip of leather):Leather covering the tip of the shinai (usually deerskin)
③ Tip rubber:Protective rubber tip ensures safety
④ Nakayui:The leather cord that ties the string in the middle maintains the strength of the bamboo sword
⑤ String pulling:Part for fixing the strings
⑥ Strings:The string threaded through the back of the bamboo sword (Tetoron is popular for its flexibility)

Bamboo sword features:

Structure made by combining four pieces of bamboo
Secured with leather parts for safety
Regular maintenance required

2. Names and Functions of Each Part of the Shinai

Names of the various parts of the shinai - handle, tsuba, string, uchi, etc.

A shinai is made up of many parts. Understanding the role of each part will make it easier to choose and maintain them.

Description of major parts

Handle:The part that you grip the shinai. The white leather part is called "tsukakawa" (handle leather).
Pommel:The tip of the handle
Tsuba (guard):The part that protects the fist. It can be made of plastic or leather.
Tsuba-dome (guard stopper):A part used to secure the tsuba. Generally made of rubber.
Strings:The string that is threaded through the back of the bamboo sword. Tetoron is the most flexible and popular.
Nakayui:A leather string that ties the string in the middle, maintaining the strength of the bamboo sword.
Monouchi:The central part of the strike. Between the tip of the sword and the middle knot.
Sakigawa (tip of leather):The leather that covers the tip of the shinai. Deerskin is the most common.
Tip of the sword:The tip of the bamboo sword. An important part to ensure safety.

Role of each part:

Each part plays an important role in maintaining safety and functionality, and regular inspection and replacement are necessary. If you continue to use a damaged part, you risk injuring yourself and others.

3. Shinai regulations for official matches [2026 edition]

The All Japan Kendo Federation's "Kendo Match and Refereeing Rules" state that the use of bamboo swordsLength, weight, thicknessThese are stipulated in detail, and bamboo swords that do not meet the standards may be rejected during the weigh-in process for a match.

Shinai Size Chart - Standards by Age and Gender

Bamboo sword regulations by age and gender

Classification	Size	Length	Weight (male)	Weight (female)	Tip minimum diameter	Minimum diameter
Elementary School kid	28~36	No regulation	No regulation		No regulation	No regulation
Middle school students	37 (3 shaku 7 sun)	114cm or less	440g or more	400g or more	25mm or more	20mm or more
A high school student	38 (3 shaku 8 sun)	117cm or less	480g or more	420g or more	26mm or more	21mm or more
University students/General	39 (3 shaku 9 sun)	120cm or less	510g or more	440g or more	26mm or more	21mm or more

Pre-match weigh-in:

In official matches, shinai are inspected before the match. Shinai that do not meet the regulations cannot be used.

length:Measured along the entire length of the finished product, including any attachments
重さ：Measured by the weight of the finished product, excluding the tsuba
Safety confirmation:It is also checked for splinters and cracks.

Regular maintenance is important.

How to call bamboo sword sizes

Shinai sizes are measured in shaku and sun. The numbers are read as follows:

28 → Nippachi
30 → Sabuzero
32 → Sabuni
34 → Sabyon
36 → Saburoku
37 → Sabunana
38 → Sabuhachi and Sanpachi
39 → Cold

4. How to choose the right size for your age and build

Guide to choosing the right Shinai size for each age group

The size of a bamboo sword varies depending on the player's build, age, and level of competition.Choosing the right size is the first step to success.

Elementary school students (sizes 28-36)

Elementary school students use a size of about 3 shaku 0 sun to 3 shaku 6 sun depending on their height.The same length as the height of the foot from the armpit to the midpoint of the shoulderis a guideline.

Elementary school students:

Before entering elementary school:Size 28 (28cm)
1rd and 2th grade elementary school students:Sizes 30-32 (Sabzero-Sabuni)
3rd and 4th grade elementary school students:Size 34 (Sabun)
5th grade:Gradually moving to sizes 34-36
6th grade:Size 36 (Saburoku)

Because there is a wide variation in height and strength among elementary school students,Do not use a long bamboo swordIt is important to have a heavy club that is difficult to hit and does not allow children to develop the correct form. For small children, a size 32 is sufficient even for third graders.

Junior high school student (size 37)

Bamboo swords of 3 shaku 7 sun (114 cm) or less are used.For junior high school students and above, bamboo sword weigh-ins are conducted at official matches.Therefore, you will need a bamboo sword that meets the regulations.

Since standards for weight and thickness differ between men and women, be sure to check the specifications for competition equipment that are appropriate for your gender. Kendo equipment stores often label equipment as "for men" or "for women."

High school student (size 38)

The bamboo swords used are 3 shaku 8 sun (117 cm) or less. They are heavier than those used by junior high school students, and the thickness standards are stricter.In official high school matches, the bamboo swords are weighed in particularly strictly.Will be

College students and adults (size 39)

The standard is 3 shaku 9 sun (120 cm) or less. When it comes to size 39, there are many different types of shinai available.The joy of choosing the center of gravity and handle shape that suits your sword stylewill also increase.

Once you have become accustomed to using a bamboo sword, we recommend that you choose one that has a good center of gravity and handle shape that suits your special skills and kendo style.

Basic principles for choosing size:

Choose the length that suits your height
You can leave some leeway during the growing season.
Be sure to check the regulations for matches
Consider using separate equipment for practice and matches
Don't force yourself to use a larger size

5. Characteristics of Shinai Due to Differences in Center of Gravity

The bamboo sword isThere are three main types depending on the position of the center of gravity.Each has different characteristics and suitable techniques.

Popular type (general type)

The most standard bamboo sword,Center of gravity near the centerIt is highly durable and ideal for beginners and practice. Its good balance makes it suitable for any technique, and it is especially recommended for those just starting out in kendo.

Popular type features:

Center of gravity is central and well balanced
Highly durable and long-lasting
Relatively inexpensive
Ideal for beginners to practice basics
A versatile model that can handle any technique

Body type/Combat type

The center of gravity is closer to the handThe top of the handle is slightly thicker, making it feel lighter and easier to use.

Torso type:The grip is thick and the center of gravity is closer to the grip. It is suitable for matches and promotion examinations.

Practical type:The tip is thinner than the Doubari type, making it feel lighter. It is easier to perform combos and pull techniques, but it is less durable.

Characteristics of the Doubari and Actual Combat Styles:

The center of gravity is closer to the hand, making it feel lighter
Easy to perform combo moves
Suitable for pulling techniques
Advantageous for close range techniques
Designed for the match
Less durable than the standard model

Old sword type

Center of gravity is forwardIt feels heavy to swing, but it delivers a powerful and stable blow. The weight balance is similar to that of an actual Japanese sword, so you can feel a solid impact when striking.

Characteristics of the old sword type:

Center of gravity is closer to the tip
A powerful blow
There is a sense of stability in striking
Feels similar to a Japanese sword
Suitable for face-to-face striking
Suitable for advanced students and judges

6. Handle Shape and Selection

There are several different shapes for the handle of the shinai.It is also important to learn the correct grip.It is an element.

Round

This is the most common shape. It has a circular cross section, making it easy to handle and highly versatile. It is used in many shinai and is often reasonably priced.

Oval

The cross section is oval, similar to a bokken.You can naturally grip the correct gripTherefore, it is especially recommended for beginners.

Reasons why oval shapes are recommended for beginners:

When gripping a shinai, the thumbs of both hands should point downwards. However, especially when first starting to wear protective gear, it is common for players to grip the shinai in a "side grip" when wearing the kote.

If it is an oval type, it will beIt automatically encourages correct gripping and prevents side gripping

Regular octagonal

The octagonal cross section makes it easy to use, but it is rare and expensive because it is time-consuming to make. It feels like it sticks to your hand, so it is popular with advanced players.

八角小判型

A hybrid octagonal and oval shape.Easier to be aware of the cutting edgeIt fits firmly in your hand when you grip it. It has eight corners, making it easy to use, but it is a bit pricey.

Shape	Characteristics	Price	Recommended people
Round	The most common and easy to use	Cheap	Everyone
Oval	The correct grip is achieved naturally	Somewhat expensive	Beginner
Regular octagonal	Highly maneuverable and fits comfortably in your hand	Expensive	Senior
八角小判型	Easy to be aware of the cutting edge	Expensive	Senior

7. How to choose the handle length

The length of the handle also has a big impact on how easy it is to use the shinai, so choose one that suits your kendo style.

標準の長さ

When you hold the shinai upright and hold the base of the tsuba with your right hand, and bend your elbow,The length at which the handle reaches the elbowHowever, the ideal length varies depending on the school and style of swordsmanship.

Short handle

This bamboo sword has a long blade design to compensate for the short handle.

Short handle type features:

Longer reach
Advantageous for hitting the face from a distance
Suitable for thrusting techniques
Easy to control the distance
Suitable for larger people

Long handle type

This is a bamboo sword with a long handle.

Features of the long handle type:

Highly maneuverable in close proximity
Suitable for small tricks
Easy to pull techniques
Advantageous for successive small techniques
Suitable for smaller people

8. How to choose the thickness of the handle

The thickness of the handle also affects how easy it is to use the bamboo sword.Choose according to your hand sizeThis is the basic principle.

Standard (approx. 25mm diameter)

39 This is the most common diameter for men's shinai. We recommend starting with this diameter. *The diameter is measured at the left grip.

細め

Designed for women and those with small hands. It is easy to grip and allows you to use the weight of the shinai to strike powerfully, but the tip of the shinai feels relatively heavy.

Thick

Designed for people with large hands and strong grip strength. The center of gravity is closer to the hand, making the swing feel lighter.
For men, bamboo swords with a thickness of 27mm or more for the left hand are generally called extra thick.

Tips for choosing thickness:

Bamboo swords with thicker handles tend to feel lighter because the center of gravity is closer to the grip. Doubari-gata swords are also designed to feel lighter.

It's best to choose one that feels comfortable when you grip it. Try it out at a kendo equipment store to find the thickness that suits your hand.

9. Differences in Shinai Materials

There are four main types of bamboo sword materials. Each has its own characteristics.Price, durability, and feelis different.

Material	Characteristics	Price	Durability
Katsuratake	The most common. Inexpensive but prone to splinters. The most flexible.	Cheap	moderate
Bamboo	The fibers are dense, soft, and hard to break. Good feel when hitting.	Expensive	high
Smoked bamboo	Smoked to enhance durability and give it a unique color and aroma.	Mid-price	moderate
Solid Bio	Heat treatment improves elasticity and durability. High safety.	Expensive	high

Details of each material

Keichiku:　Its dense grain makes it strong and hard, but its long vertical fibers also give it flexibility, making it the easiest to bend. It is prone to splinters, but its low price makes it ideal for everyday practice.

Madake (Madake):Its dense, thick fibers give it a refreshing, bouncy feel when striking. Its appeal lies in its comfortable feel, making it a high-quality shinai perfect for use in matches and examinations. Its relatively low population makes it expensive, but it is said to be less prone to splinters.

Smoked bamboo:Smoked bamboo for extra durability, it has a unique color and fragrance and can be used for a long time.

Solid Bio:Modern bamboo swords have been heat-treated to improve their flexibility and durability, making them safer and relatively easy to maintain.

10. Recommended bamboo swords for beginners

For those who are just starting kendo, we recommend the following combinations.

Recommended bamboo swords for beginners:

shape:Popular type (general type)

The center of gravity is central and well-balanced, making it suitable for any technique.

Handle shape:Oval

It naturally allows you to grip the handle correctly and prevents you from gripping it sideways.

material:Katsuratake

This is the most common and affordable type, and is ideal for practice.

Size:Suitable for age and height

Don't go for a larger size, just choose the right size.

11. How to maintain your bamboo sword

Bamboo swords require regular maintenance.For safe useCheck the following points:

Daily checklist

Hangnail check:Check the surface of the shinai for splinters. If there are any, remove them with sandpaper or replace with a new shinai.

Check for cracks:Check for vertical cracks. Cracked shinai are dangerous and should not be used.

Check the accessories:Check that the handle, tip, knot, strings, etc. are attached correctly.

Check the tip rubber:Check that the rubber tip is not detached or damaged.

Maintenance points

After use, wipe the shinai with a dry cloth
Avoid storing in humid places
If you will not be using it for a long period of time, store it upright in a well-ventilated place.
Disassemble periodically to check the condition of the bamboo pieces
Regularly replace strings and knots

Safety Precautions:

A shinai with splinters or cracks poses a risk of injuring your opponent, and will fail the shinai inspection before the match.

For safety reasons, if you notice any abnormality, immediately stop using the product and repair or replace it.

12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How often should I replace my shinai?

A. It depends on the frequency of use and the quality of the shinai, but if you practice 3-4 times a week, the guideline is 2-3 months. If you notice any splinters or cracks, replace it immediately. Safety is our number one priority.

Q2. Should I use different shinai for matches and practice?

A. We recommend separating them if possible. For practice, use a standard type that emphasizes durability, and for matches, use a doubari type or bamboo type that emphasizes feel and operability.

Q3. What color should I choose for the bamboo sword string?

A. White Tetron is the most flexible and common. There is little difference in performance depending on the color, but your organization or dojo may have specifications, so please check.

Q4. When should I change my Shinai size as I grow taller?

A. It's time to change the size when the shinai is clearly shorter than the midpoint between the armpit and shoulder when held upright. For elementary school students, we recommend gradually moving up to a larger size starting in the summer of the fifth grade.

Q5. Which should a beginner choose: Madake or Katsura bamboo?

A. For beginners, we recommend Katsura bamboo. It is affordable, durable, and ideal for practice. Madake bamboo has a good feel, but is expensive, so it is best used for matches and judging.

Q6. How can I actually check the center of gravity of a bamboo sword?

A. Hold the shinai horizontally and find the position where you can balance it with one finger. If it is near the center, it is a standard type, if it is closer to the grip, it is a doubari type, and if it is closer to the tip, it is an old sword type. We recommend that you try it out at a kendo equipment store before purchasing.

Q7. How should I store my bamboo sword?

A. It is best to store it upright in a well-ventilated place. Avoid humid places or places exposed to direct sunlight. If you will not be using it for a long period of time, disassemble it, check the condition of the bamboo pieces, and dry them before storing.

13. Summary: Find the Shinai that's right for you

Find the bamboo sword that's right for you

The characteristics of a bamboo sword vary depending on various factors such as its shape, center of gravity, and material.Once you find the one that's right for you, you'll be able to use it naturally, as if it were an extension of your arm.

Summary of choosing a bamboo sword:

1. Size:Choose the right length for your age and height

2. Center of gravity:Beginners should choose the popular type, while advanced players should choose the type that suits their style.

3. Handle shape:For beginners, we recommend the oval type.

4. Handle length:The basic length is when the handle reaches your elbow when you bend it.

5. Handle thickness:Choose according to your hand size

6. Material:Katsura bamboo is used for practice, and madake bamboo is used for matches and examinations.

7. Maintenance:Check regularly and use safely

8. Match Rules:Be sure to check the regulations in official matches

First, clarify your physique and purpose (for practice or competition),A film that makes you think, "This is it!"Let's look for.

Buying advice:

If possible, we recommend visiting a kendo equipment store and trying out a sword. Because each bamboo is different, even the same brand of shinai will have subtle differences in feel.

If you are purchasing online, be sure to check the size and weight regulations and contact the store if you have any questions.

*The information in this article is current as of February 2026. The All Japan Kendo Federation regulations are subject to change, so please check the latest information atAll Japan Kendo Federation Official Website.

*Choosing a bamboo sword depends on your individual physique and kendo style. If you have any questions, please consult an instructor or a specialist store.

*Please contact the store directly for stock availability and prices at each store.

To purchase a bamboo sword, visit BUSHIZO

At the BUSHIZO Shibuya showroom, you can actually pick up a bamboo sword and try swinging it.
Our expert staff will help you choose the perfect bamboo sword for you.

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