There are some rules for the colors. We recommend you buy them at Tozando.
You need a dōgi, hakama, inner obi (belt), and outer obi to participate in the Asayama Ichiden Ryu lessons. For the Musō Shinden Ryu lessons, the outer obi is unnecessary. The dōgi should be dark blue, the hakama should be black, and the outer must be white. The inner obi you can choose whatever color you like because it doesn’t represent anything like a karate belt. However, the black outer obi can only be tied by students who have reached a certain level, so you must choose white.
If you are having a hard time deciding, these are the recommendations.
▶︎Iaitō (zinc alloy training katana):
Byakko – Tenryu Semi-custom Iaito
▶︎Dōgi and Hakama:
Basic Synthetic Kendo Uniform Set
▶︎Inner Obi (any color):
Cotton Kaku Obi
▶︎Outer Obi (must be white):
White Aikido Obi
You don’t have to have everything to start taking the lessons. Just a Bokutō (wooden katana) and any belt are fine to start. However, if you’re willing to participate in Dan promotion exams or online Enbu performances, you must have the correct tools and gear.