Kendo Kote
The Kendo Kote (arm guard) appears as mitten-like gloves that are included to complete the Kendo uniform; the pieces were designed specifically for Kendo and these appear rather bulky but despite this, the Kendo Kote still provides adequate mobility which allows the user to firmly grip the shinai in a powerful yet comfortable way. The arm guard for the Naginatajutsu features a singulated thumb and index finger to allow rapid shifting of the hands position along the Naginatas shaft. The Kendo Kote has more padding compared to the Naginata Kote, and in the past, the Kendo Kote was commonly created with articulated fingers, but this is rarely made today to avoid snagged fingers. A special and heavily padded construction called the Oni Gote are utilized by a couple of Koryu, specifically the itto-ryu; during Kendo battles or tournaments, the target area of the Kendo Kote is each of its wrist portions.
Materials and Make of the Kendo Kote
This piece is made from deer hide and indigo dyed cloth, silk or other materials that are equivalent to this, ornamental thread, or cotton materials; its hand portion is made from deer hair or materials that are equivalent to this, as well as two cords. Generally, the Kendo Kote is the part of the Kendo uniform that wears out faster than the do or the men, and as a primary rule, what should be worn is a single do, two men, and three Kotes. The wearer should ensure that the Kendo Kote properly fits or they can select a smaller size since leather can easily stretch. When speaking of the price of the Kendo Kote for sale, it actually depends on the number of ornaments that are present, the complexity of the design, as well as the type of leather used to create this.
Parts of the Kendo Kote
The Kote is made up of different parts and these include the Kotegashira, Kera, Kotehimo, Tenouchikawa, the Kotebuton, and the Tsutsu or the Kotetsu.
Kotegashira
The Kotegashira is the first part of the Kendo Kote and it is said to be one of the most difficult and challenging parts of the Kote to create; it is commonly made of cloth or leather that features a Sachiko style of needlework plus it also makes use of deer hair for its padding.
Kera
This is the wrist part of the Kote and there are times when the Kote does not feature any Kera, or there may be three or more Kera present, depending on how it was made. When there are more of these parts, it is much easier to move ones wrist during counterattacks; additionally, the cushioning of the Kera is also made from deer hair or sometimes, cotton.
Kotehimo
The Kotehimo is a type of lace that is strung through the Kotes holes, and it is utilized to tie the opening together (these work just like shoelaces). It is tied firmly but allows maximum flexibility and movement so the user will continue to have ease and comfort despite having a snug fit. When tying the Kotehimo, take both of the free ends and bring these up; take a Kotehimo around the other before making an overhand knot. After this, use the other Kotehimo to tie another overhand knot.
Tenouchikawa
The palm portion; it is made of specially treated deerskin or synthetic leather. It wears out easily because it comes into contact with the shinai tsuka.
Kotebuton
Kotebuton are the cuffs of the Kendo Kote and these conceal about two-thirds of the wearers forearms; its protective cushioning material is made out of cotton.
Tsutsu or Kotetsu
The Kotetsu or Tsutsu is a cylinder-like part of the Kote that can be located between the Kotebuton and the Kera.
Wearing and Removing the Kote
Wearing and removing the Kote is easy; simply put on the Kote by pushing the glove but remember, pulling on the forearm portion will only deform the Kote and may eventually hurt the wearers joints. When removing the piece, it will just come off easily when it is pushed from ones elbow. Again, if one pulls the Kote beyond the joint area, it will also deform the piece and may cause pain to ones joints.
Proper Kote Care
Because of the materials utilized to create the Kote, dirt, sweat, and regular usage can easily make the Kote smell, so it is highly suggested that one cleans and dries it soon after usage. Recently, washable Kote has been created and these are made from fabric and artificial leather which can be very convenient and hygienic compared to the traditional Kote.
After using the Kote during training, stretch out its palm leather then let it dry out; it should be rubbed on occasionally as well. Just like the men, the Kotes interior is difficult to dry, so it is best to hang the piece in a well-ventilated area, or desiccant and newspaper can be stuffed inside. For devoted Kendo practitioners, getting spare Kotes is the best idea although everyone knows that Kendo Kote for sale is quite expensive, so these pieces should be taken care of properly.