Obi facts for kids
An obi (帯, おび) is a special type of belt or sash from Japan. It's mostly worn with traditional Japanese clothes like the kimono and the keikogi (which is a uniform for martial arts). Both men and women wear obi, but they come in many different styles. Some obi are very simple and light, while others are fancy, made from stiff fabrics, and decorated with beautiful embroidery or dyed patterns.
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Different Obi for Men
Men's obi are usually narrower and shorter than women's obi.
Kaku Obi
The most common type of obi for men is called a kaku obi. These obi are quite firm and can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. They are often made from woven fabric with subtle patterns.
Heko Obi
Sometimes, men wear a heko obi. This type is made from much softer material. Heko obi are usually worn only for casual events, like relaxing at home or attending a summer festival.
Different Obi for Women
Obi for women are much wider and longer than those for men. They can be very elaborate and are often a key part of a kimono outfit.
Nagoya Obi
Most women commonly wear a nagoya obi. This obi is special because it's wider at one end and narrower at the other. This design makes it easier to tie.
Hanhaba Obi
During summer, women often wear a hanhaba obi, especially with a light summer kimono called a yukata. These obi are half the width of a regular obi, making them comfortable for warm weather.
Formal Obi Styles
Formal obi for women can be very fancy and expensive. They might be woven with shiny metallic threads, covered in detailed embroidery, or dyed with elegant designs. These beautiful obi are often the most costly part of a kimono outfit. Some of the most skilled artists in Japan create these obi, and their work is highly valued.
Obi in Martial Arts
Obi worn for practicing martial arts are quite different from those worn with kimonos. They are much thinner and shorter.
Showing Skill Levels
In martial arts, the color of an obi is very important. It shows how skilled a person is. As someone learns more and improves their techniques, they earn the right to wear a new color of obi. This is a way to show progress and achievement.
Simple and Practical Design
Unlike the decorative obi for kimonos, martial arts obi are not embroidered or dyed with fancy designs. They are plain and practical. Both men and women wear the same size and length of obi in martial arts, focusing on function rather than decoration.
