Top 8 Kendamas | Video Review

This wiki has been updated 31 times since it was first published in January of 2017. Kendamas are proof that kids don't need screens or high-tech gadgets to be entertained. Once they get their hands on one of these traditional Japanese toys, they can't stop playing. In addition to their fun value, they help develop hand-eye coordination and have no small parts to lose and no batteries to replace. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 31 times since it was first published in January of 2017. Kendamas are proof that kids don't need screens or high-tech gadgets to be entertained. Once they get their hands on one of these traditional Japanese toys, they can't stop playing. In addition to their fun value, they help develop hand-eye coordination and have no small parts to lose and no batteries to replace. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Kotaro Pro

Named after a Ninja clan leader in ancient Japan, the Kotaro Pro (appx. $14) is a professional-quality model that can stand up to all the tricks a seasoned user is capable of subjecting it to. It's ideal for anyone over the age of 12 looking to improve their hand-eye coordination.

Simple and timeless design
Is the traditional size
Includes a spare string

2. Kaleb Earth Marble

The rubberized paint on the Kaleb Earth Marble (around $18) means the surface is slightly tacky, which helps make it easier for newbies to land tricks. Its stunning green, yellow, and blue paint job is among the most eye-catching designs.

Comes with an extra string
Traditional size
Recommended for children over 9

3. Kaizen Padauk

Made by the original manufacturer of these in the United States, the Kaizen Padauk (appx. $52) includes an instruction manual, so you can start learning some of the endless tricks possible with this simple-looking, but deceptively complex, toy.

Cool mint colored ball
Wood looks lovely
Available in numerous other designs

4. Kendama Kraze Samurai

Children and adults will admire the decorative, stormy swirls on the Kendama Kraze Samurai (about $15), which make it look like part toy and part sorcerer's wand. This selection is made from durable and high quality wood that can stand up to tournaments.

Improves hand-eye coordination
Shiny and slick finish
Dramatic color scheme

5. Bamboo 2-Pack

A good value for the price, the Bamboo 2-Pack (appx. $20) encourages friends or family members to play together or even compete with each other, so it makes a perfect gift. Each piece has a classic look with a two-tone handle and purple or pink paint on the ball.

Made of eco-friendly materials
Both are full-size models
Not for children under 6 years old

6. Red & Yellow Cracked

The Red & Yellow Cracked (appx. $14) sports an eye-catching design that resembles the sparks shooting out of a plasma ball. At just over seven inches, this one is the traditional size, with a ball that weighs 160 grams and has a diameter of 2.35 inches.

Durable hardwood construction
Makes a great stocking stuffer
Paint will chip with use

UNDER REVIEW

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7. YoYoFactory Catchy Air

While it may not be a traditional wooden model, the YoYoFactory Catchy Air (around $10) has its merits. Because it's made from plastic, the ball is lighter, and the handle is weighted perfectly, making tricks easier for beginners or young children.

No paint to chip off
Ergonomic and nonslip grip
Doesn't include a spare string

8. Kaleb Red Sea

Its impressive blend of pink, purple, and red is sure to catch the eye of your children and their friends, and helps the Kaleb Red Sea (appx. $18) stand out from the crowd. It's just over seven inches tall and includes an extra string and a decorative sticker.

Provides hours of entertainment
Reflects light nicely
Emblem is hard to see

UNDER REVIEW

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Last updated by Joseph Perry

An avid reader and outdoors enthusiast, Joe earned his doctorate in literary studies before making the lateral leap from academia to technical writing. He now lives and works in the inter-mountain West where he creates technical and marketing content, including white papers, solution briefs, and courseware for some of the world’s largest information technology companies. With more than 14 years of experience in the field, he has learned more than he ever thought he would know about such enterprise IT topics as cloud computing, storage, databases, business software, and networking. When he’s not writing about business computing, he can be found outdoors, probably hiking with his family and dog.

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The 8 Best Kendamas

1. Kotaro Pro

2. Kaleb Earth Marble

3. Kaizen Padauk

Editor's Notes

4. Kendama Kraze Samurai

5. Bamboo 2-Pack

6. Red & Yellow Cracked

7. YoYoFactory Catchy Air

8. Kaleb Red Sea

The 8 Best Kendamas

1. Kotaro Pro

2. Kaleb Earth Marble

3. Kaizen Padauk

Editor's Notes

4. Kendama Kraze Samurai

5. Bamboo 2-Pack

6. Red & Yellow Cracked

7. YoYoFactory Catchy Air

8. Kaleb Red Sea

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