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 with a string, and the main goal is to balance and perform tricks with the ball on the handle or the cups. There are no strict rules, which is the beauty of kendama: it is suitable for everyone, allowing anyone to invent tricks that defy the laws of physics. A kendama toy is an excellent choice for developing balance, focus, and reflexes while having fun.

Kendama is also gaining popularity as a side-sport in many action sports communities. With an endless array of tricks to perform and its focus on creativity, concentration, 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 was born. Kendama literally means “sword ball” and has long been a classic toy for Japanese children. Over the years, the size and design of kendama have evolved, and in recent decades, it has become a global phenomenon.

Today, kendama is more than just a toy; it is a sport, a subculture, and a fun way to bring people together. If you consider yourself a kendama pro, there are international kendama 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 will also find spare strings and some kendama-specific merchandise.