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Tsubasa Budogu Entry Line of Kendo Bogu models are an excellent option for everyone with a tight budget, particularly for those looking for a beginner set or an "interchangeable between practices" set. In comparison with our made-to-order Japanese line of Bogu models (called Tsubasa Brand), these are way more simple and standard in terms of design, but great in terms of affordability, without losing the cost-effective component.
The Tsubasa Budogu Entry series concept consists in offering a model that works great in terms of performance without the high costs and complexity we found in the more innovative Tsubasa Brand models. Nonetheless, these are made with great materials too, just not made in Japan (to lower the costs!). Perfect for practitioners of any level, particularly for those who are starting Kendo or just want to spend less for a decent quality equipment.
The main reason to offer a more economic line of products, besides the main innovative Tsubasa Brand line of models, is to support the starting Kendo community (which simultaneously helps to increase the Kendo population), by reaching out to those in need of a great value equipment at the beginning of their journey, without getting a silly looking gear (because the appearance also matters for us, and we believe is a very important aspect in Kendo as well!). Some Budogu-shops sell very good entry level models within Japan, but not so many for the international market, with many shops offering a low quality Bogu embellished with sofisticated words in the product's description, oftenly describing nothing new, for a similar price compared to better options. To counter this issue, we suggest to directly try out and feel the gear if possible (we know many times is impossible, if nobody owns one near you), or to observe closely the pictures and details and ask in case of any doubts, but never to be foolished with the descripotion's "wording" alone, which many times does not say too much, and usually are just basic models but with different terms, or made up names.
We think affordable options are good enough to do Kendo well nowadays, but for those who want to invest a little more on something more premium, that last longer, while supporting the professionals behind each design and each stitch, as well as the study, originality and work behind Tsubasa Brand, we recommend to check our Made in Japan line up too.
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ADVANCE model features a deerskin finish on Aizome cotton Futon with some parts of the Kote in Orizashi, sewed with a 8x4x4x4 mm Naname-Hajousashi (Diagonal Wave stitching) and a narrow pitch for a very protective, durable yet flexible Bogu. It comes with a deerskin Yakko style (Orizashi reinforced and covered on important areas with leather) pair of Kote, and also deerskin reinforcements on the Menboushi (top of the head and front segments of the Men-dare) and on the center of the Tare Obi and sides, as well as the Heri and Sumikawa. The Tare-Himo ends with a thinner tip for easy-tying. The Kote palms are made in bleached deer leather for an incredible Shinai-holding sensation. This Bogu is the most luxurious and comfortable model of the entry level series. Its design grants a great motion range without compromising the protectiveness or durability, but compared with the other ones on this line up, it requires a little more care to maintain in good shape (particularly the leather parts, like the Kote-palms), so it is not recommended for beginners. It has a very fresh appearance, without stading out too much. The Futon in general is a top-notch Felt, thicker on the striking zones. The Mengane is made in Duralumin, a durable, flexible and light-weight alloy, very popular among nowadays Kendo equipment. Overall, being the high-end model of the entry series, it doesn't only offer luxury components but also a cost-effective and well balanced design: comfortable and flexible, great protection and durability.
* The ADVANCE model in a nutshell: Great design and affordable price considering the premium materials used.
* This is a multipurpose Bogu model.
* Maintenance: After each use, just spray some water on the Futon (cotton-fabric, not the leather) areas where sweat concentrated the most, and let the Futon dry before the next use. Also stretch the Tenouchi (palms) so they don't dry having wrinkles on its surface, which could lead to holes. In case of dry weather, it is recomended to spray water droplets before using the gear, only on the futon area, and apply (and let dry before use) Mink Oil or Leather Cream on the palms one time per 2 weeks or when you feel it's necessary. (!) Do not expose the Bogu to direct sunlight for prolongated time. (!) If you wash your Bogu parts, avoid submerging it or directly watering the Menbuchi (the outer ring made of black lacquered leather, where the Mengane or metal cage is connected to the Futon). And remember, a very dry Bogu in dry weather will lose its fabric-flexibility, becoming prone to break apart.
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