How to put on kendo tare

The tare is a special piece of equipment. It serves two purposes: It is a means of protecting the lower body, and is also a means of identification. The zekken, or name plate, goes over the front middle odare, or large flap and has on it the dojo’s and practitioner's name stitched in Japanese.

In a seated position, be certain that all of your gear is in front of you as pictured.

Take the tare and put it in front of you at waist level.

Place the left strap under the front right tare flap (migi odare and over the rear right flap (migi kotare, and place the right strap under the left tare flap.

Place the right strap over the left strap.

Tie the two straps into a bow underneath the front tare flap, hana-musubi style.