Tokaido (東海堂, Tōkaidō)[a] is a Japanese company that manufactures karate uniforms, belts, and related products.
[1] It is the world's oldest manufacturer of uniforms specifically for karate training, with a reputation for high quality.
[8][9] Judo emphasizes grappling, so training in that art typically requires a strong, heavy uniform; karate emphasizes striking, so training in that art does not require so heavy a uniform.
[9] Sugiura began supplying sample uniforms to instructors of the newly formed Japan Karate Association (JKA), and used their feedback to improve the designs and manufacturing.
[1] Tokaido has also produced custom-made uniforms made by master tailors Genzo and Waisetsu.