Uwa-Obi
(Outer Belt)

Uwa-Obi is a narrow “outer belt” or “sash” which is worn over your samurai do (cuirass) or hitatare (samurai clothing).  Crafted from asa (hemp), the uwa-obi is typically 3 to 6.5 meters long, so it can be wrapped around the samurai warrior 2 or 3 times. The warrior places the center of the obi (belt) over the center of the do (cuirass – as an armor utility belt) or navel (as a kimono belt) and begins wrapping it around himself, tying it firmly. A strip of kawa (hide) is added to the center of the obi so that the warrior can quickly find the center. The uwa-obi is specifically used to secure the sageo (saya cord) of their tachi, or katana, wakizashi and tanto to their waist.  It is also used to secure other weapons or accessories, such as the Hayago Doran (ammo box) or Kari-Ebira (samurai arrow quiver) for example.

The uwa-obi is sometimes referred to as the “second belt” or “utility belt” because it is worn 2nd to or over the sarashi, which was used more to secure the do to the waist of the samurai and could also be used to secure weapons / items as well.  The padded yoroi-obi was worn under the armor and is often display over the waist of the yoroi (armor) when it is on display. Traditionally in the Sengoku Era (Warring State) the uwa obi was crafted from white asa linen and could be died dark indigo-blue. In the Edo Era (Peaceful State) aya (cotton) or kenpu (silk) would be used.  The length depends on the needs of the warrior. Our samurai clothing and accessories are featured in many movies, tv series, documentaries, including the docudrama “Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan” by Netflix & the Smithsonian Channel.

Ordering Tips: The uwa-obi should match the circumference of your waist or desired length you want. Remember you will want to wrap it around your waist 2 to 3 times, so if your waist is 100 cm, you will want to order 200 to complete 1 wrap, 400 cm for 2 wraps or 600 cm for 3 wraps. This is because the belt will wrap from front to the back and front again for 1 wrap, so your waist circumference is doubled for each wrap around.  Round up to the nearest measurement when selecting your length. Add an additional 10 cm to your initial length if wearing it with your samurai armor. Please know that WE will add to your requested length to ensure it can be tied comfortably.

Features: Uwa-Obi

• Traditional Design / Crafting
• Material & Sizing Options
• Can be worn with or without armor

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