Sageo

Buying Sageo - what you should look out for

Sageo is the strap on the scabbard. Replacing the strap is relatively simple and quick. Buying sageo is therefore a topic that will sooner or later be of interest to every sword owner.

Nevertheless, there are a few things to consider when buying Sageo due to the different types. To help you make a better choice, we would like to take a brief look at the different designs.

Sageo length

Sageo usually have a length of approx. 180 cm (6 shaku) or almost 220 cm (7 shaku).

It depends on your own style which band is more suitable.

Sageo material

Before buying a Sageo, you have to decide on the belt material. You can choose from the following:

Synthetic fibre

Synthetic fibre is a modern development, but a perfectly viable alternative for Sageo tapes. The ribbon looks similar to the much more expensive silk ribbon and is robust.

These belts can be produced easily and are therefore very inexpensive.

Cotton

Cotton sageo is a classic among sageo ribbons. When buying sageo, you can hardly avoid these ribbons and should at least consider them.

Cotton optically matches the cottonHandle windingswhich can be found on most swords.

Silk

Silk has a long history in Asian countries. It is noble and stable.

Silk is the premium segment at Sageo. The look and durability of this material are also the best.

Colour

There are countless colours for Sageo. Of course the basic colours black, white, brown, etc., but also some unusual colours.

There are also numerous combinations of Shigeuchi hinges.
Silk ribbons are also sometimes produced with unusual patterns and colour combinations.

If you want to buy Sageo, it always makes sense to have a look at the colours beforehand. The right choice of colour has a greater effect on the overall look of the sword than you might think.

Web style

The weave style is important for the appearance of Sageo, but also for how the Sageo behave. In everyday training, it can make a big difference how Sageo fall and how handy they are.

In addition to the material used, these properties also depend on the weaving style of the belt.

The most common styles are Kakucho, where the strap is tightly woven, and Shigeuchi, where the style is looser, making the strap more flexible.