Committed Student Setup

After establishing consistency in training, students will transition to full uniform and iaito practice.

This typically occurs after 2-3 months, once foundational movements, reishiki, and seated forms are understood.

The following equipment will then be required:

  • Black Keikogi with Hakama
  • Iaito (training sword)

Training in a hakama changes how you move, sit, stand, and manage footwork. Students should consult with Eric or Alex before purchasing to ensure proper sizing and suitability.

Please note: A full black keikogi and hakama, along with an approved iaito, are required prior to any rank examination. Students are expected to train in this equipment well in advance of testing.

Keikogi

We have arranged embroidery options through E-Bogu so that students may order a black keikogi with the Tenshinkai NJ emblem.

Students may also request their name embroidered on the back of the hakama in accordance with dojo guidelines.

Please follow the ordering instructions below carefully to ensure correct sizing, color, and embroidery placement.

E-Bogu Iaido Gi & Tetron Hakama (Black)

Please use the following to select the correct options:

Uniform Sizing

  1. Iaidogi Size – Use the Size Chart under the drop down menu, select (Black)
  2. Juban/Shitagi – Use the Size Chart under the drop down menu
  3. Tetron Hakama Size – Use the Size Chart under the drop down menu
  4. Himo (Strap) Extension – If waist is over 40in it is recommended. Select:
    • “Add 2 sets (4x 10in Himos) Front/Back + Sew Service Tetron Black”

Accessories

  1. Obi Option – Do NOT need Obi

Zekken/Nafuda

  1. Do NOT add Zekken
  2. Thread Color – Skip

Embroidery Service

  1. ADD Embroidery (Logo on Gi + Name on Hakama) [Add $50.00]
    • Follow instructions below AFTER placing your order

Body Size

  1. Enter your body dimensions. This will help E-Bogu verify that your selections above are appropriate.

Order!

After you have placed your order and have an Order/Invoice Number, proceed to https://www.e-bogu.com/Articles.asp?ID=275 to enter the Embroidery details:

Name on Invoice

  1. Enter as per your order

Email

  1. Enter as per your order

Order/Invoice Number

  1. Enter as per your order

Name Embroidery Character Type

  1. Japanese Katakana (Recommended for English name to Japanese)
    • This will be printed in Katakana on the back of your Hakama

Embroidery Text

  1. Enter your first and last name (e-bogu will translate to Katakana)

Thread Color

  1. Select WHITE
    • Important, White denotes rank as a student. Only Substitute Shibucho (Blue) and Shibucho (Red) are allowed to wear colors. If you select another color you will not be permitted to wear the uniform in class

Font Option

  1. Select KAISHO

Upload Embroidery Design Image

  1. Skip

Instructions

  1. Write “Tenshinkai Logo on Gi”

Submit!

Iaito (Training Sword)

An iaito is a precision training tool and must be selected carefully.

Instructor consultation and approval are required prior to ordering.

When to Purchase an Iaito

Students typically transition to iaito practice after demonstrating:

  • Consistent attendance
  • Safe handling of the bokken
  • Understanding of reishiki
  • Control in seated and standing forms

Selection Guidelines

Review the sizing chart below based on student height.

  • If your arm length is longer than average for your height, remain within the recommended dimension and do not exceed +0.05 shaku.
  • If your arms are slightly longer or you prefer easier nukitsuke, you may select up to -0.05 shaku shorter than the recommended length.

Exceeding these ranges will negatively impact nukitsuke, noto, and overall control.

Do not select a blade length based on appearance or preference alone.

Proper sizing ensures:

  • Efficient draw (nukiuchi)
  • Clean noto
  • Balanced cutting mechanics
  • Long-term shoulder and elbow health

https://tozandoshop.com

Blade Type Policy

Only aluminum-alloy or zinc-alloy iaito are permitted for regular dojo training.

Live blades (shinken) are not permitted in regular practice and will not be approved.

Where to Purchase an Iaito

We highly recommend Tozando.

Entry-Level Recommendation

Genbu Toryumon Koshirae Iaito

Their most affordable entry model with minimal customization currently starts at approximately $584, with a typical lead time of 6–8 weeks.

This model is more than sufficient for serious Mugai-ryu practice and is appropriate for most students beginning iaito training.

Fully Custom Iaito

Students may choose to fully customize their iaito through Tozando.

Custom builds typically begin around $892 and can easily exceed $1,000 depending on fittings and upgrades. Lead times are generally 3–4 months.

Customization is a personal decision. For many practitioners, the sword becomes a reflection of the iaidoka’s character and spirit.

However, customization should never come at the expense of proper sizing, balance, and training priorities.

Instructor approval is required before finalizing any order.