The Zen Nihon Budogu Renmei (which Eguchi Budogu & Eguchi Budo belong to) has noted that recently some makers have recently begun selling unsafe kendo equipment labeled as "light weight."  All kenshi, especially those who are new to the art, need to be aware that light weight alone does not constitute a good, or even a safe bogu!  For example- most good kotes weight roughly 300 to 400 grams; some new lightweight kotes only weigh 200 grams, far less than what is required for adequate protection. 

Look closely at what you intend to invest in.  If you can't see what it is you are going to buy, work out a deal with your bogu supplier to ship the item with the understanding that you may return it (Eguchi Budo honors returns, and is at many events across the US throughout the year, and can help).  Look at the same equipment used- find someone who bought what you are thinking about, and ask for their opinion.  Give particular attention to the men and kote, as they get the most abuse.  The kote gashira should have plenty of padding, and the kote buton should be able to absorb a sharp blow.  The men buton should be reinforced and provide good protection to the top of the head, and should fit so that all of your head is protected (if the buton is too short ront-to-back, the back of your head is vulnerable).  And as always, whenever in doubt, ask your sensei- he or she will give you the best advice possible, as they know your style and intentions.

Keep in mind that a bogu should be chosen based on both your ability AND intended use.  Eguchi Budo has been warning kenshi for years to not buy based on looks & style, but based on practicality, safety, and comfort.  If you are looking for a bogu set and plan on acting as motodachi often, then you ought to consider this when you purchase a bogu.  If you have a tendency to get hit a lot, do more keiko and get a more protective bogu.  If you are looking for the ultimate in light weight to get you through constant practices and long shiai, then a special lightweight bogu may be just what you are looking for.

The Jissen bogu set is a perfect example of how Tada Sangyo has listened to experienced kenshi who practice daily (Japanese riot police and kendo teams) to produce a bogu set tailored to their unique needs.  Make no mistake- the Jissen bogu set is light, but the weight savings are designed in all of the right places.  Tada has years of kendo equipment experience, and has utilized special construction techniques to make a bogu set that meets the needs of serious kenshi.  Is it perfect for everyone?  Absolutely not.  We would not recommend the Jissen for someone who simply goes to practice to be a motodachi, nor would we recommend it to kenshi who may not yet have mastered their defensive skills.  For less experienced kenshi, we might recommend our 5.5mm bogu, while yudansha-level kenshi performing lots of motodachi work may be more interested in the new Mitsuboshi Pitch bogu set.

Tada Sangyo, one of the oldest and most respected bogu manufacturers in the world, has announced that it now allows its line of kendo equipment to be distributed in North America solely by Eguchi Budo.  This agreement is a direct result of Eguchi and Tada Sangyo's long term relationship and the commitment Eguchi Budo has displayed to advancing the art of kendo outside of Japan. So what does this mean to you?

• Eguchi Budo understands Tada Sangyo's equipment and equipment making style, and can ensure that you always receive the best possible fit.
• Any warranty issues you may have, should they arrive, can be handled quickly by Eguchi Budo.  If you ever have a problem, Eguchi's extensive inventory can guarantee a substitute or replacement immediately!
• You can be sure that Eguchi Budo pricing will continue to be the best possible on all Tada Sangyo items.  Buying Tada Sangyo products through Eguchi Budo means that you are going through one direct channel, instead of buying from some other distributors who have obtained items in round-about ways.

Eguchi of Kurume, Japan and Eguchi Budo have been offering Tada Sangyo's products for many, many years.  This relationship dates back generations.  Both Eguchi and Tada Sangyo are members of the prestigious Zenkoku Budogu Renmei and work hard at preserving the original art of traditional Japanese kendo equipment manufacturing.  Both Tada Sangyo and Eguchi have worked with all levels of kenshi, from beginners to world champions, to construct protective, comfortable, long lasting equipment that incorporates traditional bogu making with the latest and best "high tech" materials.

Please be aware that Tada Sangyo products can be purchased in North America only through Eguchi Budo. Purchases from any supplier other than Eguchi Budo are considered unauthorized, and any warranties will most likely not be honored.