[EXTRA 15% OFF AT CHECKOUT] - Nanahoshi N6 Kote – Designed by TETSU

Designed by TETSU

Each pair is produced by Nanahoshi in Kuji, Iwate, Japan, under the direction of the Designed by TETSU line. The N6 continues the Nanahoshi approach to Kote making, with a focus on practical feel, secure protection, and the kind of thoughtful construction that makes a Kote easy to use in real Keiko.

Key Features

• Designed by TETSU N6 Type:
  A new Nanahoshi model created to offer excellent usability and genuine Japanese craftsmanship at a more accessible price point.
• Same Kote Shape as the N4:
  The N6 uses the same Kote shape as the popular N4, allowing Kendoka to experience the familiar Nanahoshi fit and gripping feel.
• 8mm Orizashi Construction:
  Balanced for comfort, protection, flexibility, and everyday Keiko use.
• Machine Kazari on the Atama and Wrist:
  The Kote head and wrist feature machine-applied decorative stitching for a clean, consistent finish.
• Brown Synthetic Leather Tenouchi:
  The palm uses brown synthetic leather, selected for durability, easy handling, and a fresh gripping feel.
• Pre-Washed Palm:
  The synthetic leather is washed and passed through water before production, helping it become softer and better suited to the hand.
• Deer Hair Core:
  The fist section uses deer hair, helping provide a natural protective feel and traditional Kote character.
• Practical, Student-Friendly Concept:
  Developed with regular practice, and practicality, rather than prestige in mind, while still keeping the safety and functionality valued by Nanahoshi.

Why the N6 Was Created

In recent years, increases in raw material and labour costs have made high quality Kote more expensive. Nanahoshi created the N6 with the aim of offering a Kote that is easier to access, while still preserving the safety, function, and usability that are central to their work.

The goal is simple, to allow more Kendoka to experience the grip and feel of Nanahoshi Kote, and to discover the quality of genuine Japanese-made Kendogu.

About the N6 Feel

One of the standout points of the N6 is its distinctive Synthetic Leather palm. The brown Synthetic Leather Tenouchi gives a fresh gripping sensation, while the pre-washing process helps the material settle more naturally into the hand.

This extra step helps make the Kote easier to use, with a more comfortable and familiar feeling from the beginning.

Ideal Choice For

• Beginner and Intermediate Kendoka:
  Created with students in mind, offering strong usability and Japanese craftsmanship in a more accessible model.
• Regular Keiko:
  A practical choice for everyday training, where comfort, durability, and ease of use are important.
• Kendoka who like the N4 shape:
  The N6 uses the same Kote shape as the N4, making it a strong option for those who want that familiar Nanahoshi fit in a different specification.
• Those wanting Japanese-made quality:
  A way to experience Nanahoshi’s craftsmanship and attention to detail in a practical training Kote.

Exclusively Available Outside Japan from KendoStar

Nanahoshi products are rarely offered outside Japan, and we are proud to offer them exclusively through KendoStar for international customers.

Nanahoshi is based in Kuji City, Iwate Prefecture, one of Japan’s respected regions for Kendogu and textile artisanship. Their products are made with a clear focus on safety, function, usability, and authentic Japanese construction.

The N6 continues that tradition as a new, practical model from the Designed by TETSU line, made for Kendoka who want reliable protection, a good grip, and the quality of Japanese-made Kote.

Size Chart

Please use the chart below as a general guide when selecting your N6 Kote size.

How to Measure

Use the guide below to measure accurately for your N6 Kote size:

A: Measure from where your wrist meets your hand to the tip of your longest finger.

B: With your fingers and thumb together, measure around the widest part of your hand.