Choosing Your Dogi: Comfort vs. Durability

In Aikido, the uniform — called a Dogi 道着 — is your primary piece of equipment, and depending on your age and preference, the fabric weight makes a real difference:

• For Kids: Light, breathable cotton that keeps kids cool and comfortable during active play
• For Adults: You have the luxury of choice!
• Thin: Excellent for hot dojos or beginners who want maximum mobility and a faster drying time.
• Thick/Double Weave: Heavier and offers extra padding for grabs and are extremely durable.

Browse Kids & Adult Dogi Options at Mori Goods

• Thin Dogi
• Thick Dogi

The White Belt

The White Belt, or Obi 帯, symbolizes a fresh start. It is essential to wear it correctly: your jacket should always be crossed left over right, and your belt should be tied with a secure square knot.

👉 To see the exact technique for tying your belt so it stays secure during practice: Learn how to tie your belt with Teacher Wenlong

Maintenance: Wash, Dry, & Fold

Taking care of your attire is a part of your Aikido training. Proper hygiene and organization show respect for the dojo and your partners.

• Washing: Wash in cold water after every class—no bleach. Prevents bacteria buildup, fabric damage, and shrinkage.
• Drying: Air dry only. Dryer heat damages fibers and causes heavy shrinkage.
• Folding: Fold your Dogi into a neat, compact square. Lay the pants inside the jacket, fold the sleeves in to create a rectangle, and then fold it into thirds.

The Hakama: The Key to a Secure Fit

The secret to a secure Hakama lies in building a solid platform and proper strap tension:

• The Belt Anchor: Tie your belt in a flat, firm knot. If your belt is loose, your Hakama will slip.
• Lock the Back: Cross the front straps directly over the top of your belt knot at your back to lock them in place.
• Tension the Hips: Pull the straps outward away from your hips to tighten them. It should feel snug around your hip structure, but completely free at the diaphragm so you can breathe deeply.
• Secure the Back Board: Tuck the plastic peg firmly down into your belt before tying the back straps.

The Hakama: Care and Maintence

Devotion to the art means taking pride in your presentation. The Hakama requires a new level of discipline to maintain:

• Tying: Tying the long straps is a ritual that centers your mind before class.
• Folding: Preserving the pleats by folding and braiding the straps is a meditative practice that honors the art’s lineage.
• Washing: Hand-wash in cold water and never use a dryer. Heat is the enemy of your Hakama’s pleats!

The Essential: Aikido Weapons

As your Aikido journey matures, your training expands to include weapons. They are extensions of your body, designed to refine your posture, distance (ma-ai), and timing:

• Bokken 木剣 (Wooden Sword): Bokken is the foundation of Aikido movement, acting as a mirror that maintains alignment with your opponent's centerline while stepping off theirs.
• Jo 杖 (Wooden Staff): A versatile staff used for striking and thrusting. It refines your sense of center-line and multi-directional awareness.
• Tanto 短刀 (Wooden Knife): For disarming techniques. It is essential for sharpening reflexes and learning to navigate high-pressure attacks safely.

Shop Weapons at Mori Goods

Weapon Maintenance & Care

A practitioner’s weapons reflect their discipline. Proper care ensures they remain safe and last a lifetime:

• Oiling: Wood can become brittle. Periodically sand with fine-grit paper and apply camellia oil to keep the fibers supple and prevent cracking.
• Inspection: Always check for splinters or cracks before class to ensure the safety of your training partners.
• Storage: Store weapons flat in a Buken-bukuro (weapon bag) to prevent warping and protect them from moisture.

Global Recommendations

For custom, Japanese-made gear, we recommend:

• Iwata: Deep heritage & classic heavy-duty builds.
• Seido: Produce world-class Aikido gear and handcrafted wooden weapons.
• Tozando: Practical innovations like seamless backs & fast-drying fabrics