Leather does not absorbs sweat but offers an excellent grip and is the most durable material. Leather is available in standard and suede versions (napped finish). The latter has a slightly better grip if you have sweaty hands, it keeps dye better; it is, however, somewhat less durable.

This Japanese leather Tsukaito can be used for Iaito or Shinken and sold per meter. The US metric conversion is information only, the length is cut using the international metric system. You will need 300 cm (3 m) for a Wakizashi Tsuka, and 400 to 500 cm (4 to 5 m) for an Iaito Tsuka.