Kendama Is Pure Fun for All Ages

Looking for a break from wild rides but still want to impress with crazy tricks? Kendamas are perfect for you! Originating from Japan, these wooden toys feature a handle (ken), a pair of cups (sarado), and a ball (tama). The ball is attached to the wood by a string, and the main goal is to balance and perform tricks with the ball on either the handle or the cups. The beauty of kendama lies in its lack of specific rules: it’s suitable for everyone, allowing anyone to invent tricks that defy physics. Kendama toys are excellent for developing balance, focus, and reflexes while providing endless fun.

Kendama is also gaining popularity as a side-sport in many action sports communities. With an infinite number of tricks and its emphasis on creativity, focus, and gradual progression, it mirrors much of the experience of learning an action sport.

Where Does Kendama Come From?

Kendama traces its roots to the French cup-and-ball game bilboquet, but the concept was further refined in Japan, where the kendama as we know it today originated. Kendama literally means “sword ball” and has long been a staple childhood toy for Japanese kids. Over the years, the size and design of kendama have evolved, turning it into a global phenomenon in recent decades.

Today, kendama is more than just a toy; it’s also a sport and subculture, as well as a fun way to connect people. If you consider yourself a kendama pro, there are international competitions to showcase your skills, including the Kendama World Cup in Japan.

The kendamas available at SkatePro come pre-strung and ready to use right out of the box. In this category, you’ll also find spare strings and kendama-specific merchandise.