| Kendo sticks, called shinai in Japanese, are | | | | durable, able to last about more than 10 times |
| equipment used in Kendo. They are similar to | | | | longer than their bamboo counterparts, and are |
| fencing swords and are used to aggressively | | | | best used by intermediate to professional |
| attack an opponent by hitting points on the head, | | | | practitioners of Kendo. |
| throat, sides, and wrists. Traditionally, they consist | | | | How to choose your sticks |
| of a number of bamboo sticks wrapped together | | | | When it comes to choosing kendo sticks, it is |
| with leather straps on one end, with a leather | | | | best that you look for one that matches the level |
| handle on the other. | | | | of your skill. If you're just a beginner, inexpensive |
| Kinds to choose from | | | | bamboo sticks are a great choice for you. Once |
| Nowadays, kendo sticks come in both bamboo | | | | you become better in the sport, you can move |
| and synthetic forms. Bamboo sticks are made up | | | | on up and trade your bamboo sticks for more |
| of four split bamboo pieces, wrapped and tied | | | | expensive synthetic carbon fiber ones. As for |
| with leather straps, measuring from 40 to 47 | | | | durability, the beginner and the professional will |
| inches in length. They serve great as all-around | | | | have different needs from each other, as |
| sticks, functioning for both practice and defensive | | | | dictated by their level of skill. In this case, bamboo |
| purposes. The synthetic sticks, on the other hand, | | | | sticks are best for beginners while synthetic |
| are made from lightweight carbon fiber, with the | | | | carbon fiber sticks are ideal for professionals and |
| same length of 40 to 47 inches. They are highly | | | | those who compete. |