Bogu
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The Bogu, special protective armor in the kendo martial art consists of:
- Men - Helmet
- Do - Trunk protector
- Kote - Hand- and forearm protector
- Tare - Hip protector
The Men protects the neck and face. Outwardly curving planes of canvas-covered plastic, tough cloth, or other semi-pliable materials make up the planes. The facemask consists of several horizontal metal bars running the entire width of the face, from the chin to the top of the head. Most Men lace up at the back - meaning the back of one's head is not, generally, protected.
The Do's main component is the gently curving stomach/chest protector, that follows the form of the front of an overweight person's torso. It is usually made of rigid plastic, although lacquered wood is sometimes used (though expensive, it is more attractive and more evocative of feudal Japan.) The Do has canvas planes for the sides of the torso and canvas laces that tie at the small of the back and another set that tie over the shoulders.
The Kote do not allow much movement of the fingers - they are mittens, not gloves. They are specialized entirely for Kendo. This means that while they seem cumbersome, enough mobility is allowed to grip the shinai in a comfortable, powerful, and firm way. Just don't try to use chopsticks with your Kote on.
The Tare is a canvas belt with laces that wrap around the waist once and tie in front of the groin. Sturdy canvas-covered boards hand from the belt to protect the groin and conceal the knot. The boards run along half of the belt's length, which should be positioned over the front half of the body. There is no legal target on Tare, it is just for additional protection.de:Bōgu fr:Bogu