Tōkaido (karate)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Tōkaido (東海堂) is the product name of a karate equipment manufacturer based in Tokyo. It's the world's most famous manufacturer of karate uniforms, along with Shureido and Kamikaze. Although spelled almost identically as Tōkaidō (region) (東海道), the brand Tōkaido has a different third kanji and the word means "Eastern Sea Shop". The name of the company was given by its founder in honour of his homeland.
Tōkaido produces a large quantity of karate gis (karate uniforms), obis (belts) and other karate-related equipment such as protective gear (fist and shin protectors), warm-up suits and wind-breakers. Tōkaido provides karate equipment mainly for Shotokan practitioners, but its products are also suitable for other karate styles and martial arts.
Tōkaido products are known for their quality and durability and are used in kumite and kata contests as well as on gyms and training camps.
