BUKOTSU +5 Takeshima Budogu Original Kendo Bogu Set Orizashi Fabric 5mm Machine Stitching
It is a Kendo Bogu Set consisting of Men (helmet), Do (chest protector), Kote (gloves), and Tare (waist protector).
*The Kendo Bogu Set will be shipped within 7 to 10 business days.
BUKOTSU +5 Takeshima Budogu Original Kendo Bogu Set Specifications
●MEN (Helmet):
The top of the Men is crafted using our original “Bukotsu-zashi” stitching, offering a slightly thicker design to better absorb impact during strikes. The rest of the Men is machine-stitched at 5mm width, with diagonal stitching on the Men-dare (the flaps beneath the ear). This angled stitching reduces interference when lifting the shinai.
・Comfort and Durability:
The Men-buton (padded area) has a firm yet flexible feel—neither too stiff nor too soft—providing both durability and ease of use.
・High-Quality Materials:
Indigo-dyed Orizashi fabric is used on both the Men and Tare for strength and traditional appearance. Artificial leather is used on the Ago (throat protector) and edge reinforcements for enhanced durability and easier maintenance compared to genuine deerskin.
●Washable KOTE (Gloves):
Made with quick-drying polyester fabric and artificial leather for the palm (the area that grips the shinai), these Kote are fully washable. They do not bleed color like traditional indigo-dyed gear, so they can be safely machine washed together with synthetic kendo uniforms and hakama.
●DO (Chest Protector):
The Do is a standard black model made from strong resin for superior impact resistance. The Do-mune (upper chest piece) features a handwoven “”Oni-kumo”” (demon cloud) design—a bold and iconic motif often seen in high-grade bogu. While high-end Do may be made from lacquered bamboo, over 90% of modern Do are now made with resilient resin.
●TARE (Waist Protector):
Clean and structured 5mm straight stitching, with decorative five-dan embellishment hand-stitched by artisans. These decorations allow the Tare to move fluidly with your lower body while offering protection. Below the five-dan design, a curved “”kumo”” (cloud) pattern adds an elegant aesthetic.
●“Kumo” Decorations:
The cloud motif is not limited to the Do; it also appears on the Men, Kote, and Tare, symbolizing the spirit of personalization and craftsmanship in kendo gear.
◎Takeshima’s Recommendation
“”Bukotsu-zashi”” Stitching
Our original machine-stitching method, Bukotsu-zashi, is a Takejima Budo original. With a simple yet functional design, this bogu set includes a washable Kote as standard, providing convenience for modern practitioners.
Practical and Protective
The Men uses Bukotsu-zashi for its strike zone, offering the ideal balance of stiffness and shock absorption. Other parts are stitched with 5mm machine lines, making this set suitable for beginners, intermediate practitioners, and dan-ranked kenshi alike.
Unique Stitch Pattern
The Bukotsu-zashi method alternates 3mm + 3mm + 6mm stitching, which creates a bold and distinctive look once completed. The 6mm segments add extra shock absorption and a refined appearance. (See product images for reference.)
Upgraded Options Available
This set uses Bukotsu-zashi only on the Men’s crown area. However, we also offer full bogu sets with full Bukotsu-zashi throughout, all made in Japan. These will be introduced in future listings.
Maintenance Tips
①Dry Properly:
After use, shape the Men and Kote, then air-dry them in a well-ventilated, shaded area. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading and material degradation.
②Avoid Folding Men Flaps:
Let the Men-dare (ear flaps) hang naturally or store them properly to maintain their shape.
③Maintain Kote Shape:
Smooth out the wrinkles in the Tenouchi and reshape the Kote to maintain its original form.
④Wipe Sweat and Oils:
Clean the inner Men padding, especially around the chin area, where sweat accumulates.
If salt or sweat residue appears white on the surface, gently mist with water or wipe with a damp cloth. Avoid rubbing too hard, especially on indigo-dyed areas, as it can cause discoloration.
⑤Soften the Kote Head:
Over time, sweat can harden the glove. Before use, gently knead the Kote to restore softness for a better fit.
●Notes
・Each Kendo equipment brand manufactures its products based on its own unique design philosophy and standards. As a result, even if the size specifications are the same, there may be slight differences in details such as the thickness of the men-shin (helmet padding), the shape of the do (chest protector), or the length of the kote (gloves).
・The Orizashi fabric used in this set is dyed overseas. While it offers a beautiful shade of indigo, please note that there may be subtle differences in tone and texture compared to high-end Japanese-made fabrics.
・Indigo-dyed fabrics may initially transfer color to the skin or clothing. This will gradually fade with continued use.
・The outer fabric is made from 100% cotton and is similar to the thick material used for kendogi (Kendo uniforms). Two main fabric types are commonly used in Kendo armor:
Orizashi: A woven-textured cotton fabric.
Kon-tan: A smoother, tighter-woven fabric, typically used for hakama.
・Due to differences in devices and viewing environments, the color and texture of the product may appear slightly different from the actual item. Thank you for your understanding.
・LET’S KENDO MAX is closed on weekends and public holidays.
Inventory is shared across multiple sales platforms. In rare cases, items may sell out before your order is confirmed.
・Although we always aim to ship your order as quickly as possible, some products may require 7–10 business days for preparation. We appreciate your patience.
・LET’S KENDO MAX does not charge any customs duties, VAT, or handling fees for international orders.
However, depending on your country (especially in European regions), you may be required to pay local taxes or import duties before delivery.
Please check with your local customs office for more information.
