Kigurumi and Handlers
Kigurumi Handler? Why?
Simply put a handler is a term for a friend helping you out when you kig in public. Much as the term might sound formal or like some bodyguard its really a lot more casual than that.
If you think of the mascot analogy a handler is there to help you get around safely, and typically to speak on your behalf.
Even if a kigurumi doesnt have any vision limitations, unfamiliar places or busy areas can be sometimes a bit tricky to navigate. While there are ways of communicating in kig without speaking, sometimes it helps a lot to have someone else speak for you.
A handler can also be invaluable for other reasons such as:
- Spot checks to make sure you're looking your best.
- Taking photos or videos.
- Holding onto personal items like a phone or wallet.
- Helping people connect over social media.
- Keeping track of time, group chats, or other logistics.
Why Handle for Kigurumi?
First and foremost, love of the game and wanting to help out. Its not uncommon for a handler to be kigurumi themselves and handling for other kigs can be a reciprocal activity, a fun thing to do while taking a break from being in kig themselves. Even for handlers who aren't kigurumi themselves, handling for other kigs can be a fun way to participate in the hobby, helping out a friend, or just hanging together as part of a group.
The giant anime doll next to you is always a conversation starter, and making sure they're represented well is a tide that raises all boats rhetorically speaking. Sometimes the only way people really learn about kigurumi is by talking to a handler.
Handling for Kigurumi is not some obligation or job, it shouldnt be done expecting anything in return but also it shouldnt ever feel like some chore or job. Ideally it should be a fun time for both the handler and the kigurumi performer.
Kigurumi Handler Checklist
So you want someone to handle for you, or are handling for someone for the first time? We've got some food for thought best discussed before you're out and about.
- How does the performer want to be referred to?
- Its fairly common for a kig to go by the name of their character, its always good to ask if you arent sure.
- Sometimes kigs will have a preferred "stage name" or nickname they prefer to be called or that some might know them by.
- Any vision concerns or needs to be aware of?
- An example could be limited downward vision, and to warn them of any unexpected obstacles they might encounter.
- Are there any character specific points that should be mindful of?
- Does any accessory like to misbehave and sometimes end up at odd angles from time to time?
- Or perhaps a part of the hair sometimes gets out of place?
- If someone asks for social media connections, is there anything they'd like you to share on their behalf?
- How "active" should the handler be?
- Some kigs may prefer a more hands off approach, some enjoy being buddy buddy, side by side with their handler.
Some of these may be obvious to some, but its always good to be mindful of these things.
- If photos/videos are being done, is the kigurumi performer looking properly at the camera?
- Sometimes a kig might not be used to the spot their mask itself looks at versus where they are looking.
- If something looks odd or off but you cant quite put your finger on why, ask the kigurumi performer if they're aware of it.
- Check in with the performer from time to time to make sure they're doing alright.
- Have they been in for a while? A time update can be a good mindful check in.
Looking the Part - Elevated Handling
While not strict checklist items, an amazing handler doesnt just act the part, they look the part.
If its at a con, dressing in a way with synergy to the kigurumi can be a great way to blend in and not stand out. Maybe it's wearing clothes that align with the kigurumi's vibe. If the character is from a particular series maybe its wearing clothes or cosplay of that series. If a character is an idol maybe its wearing a sharp "producer" or "manager" outfit.
Not at a con? If you're doing a photoshoot somewhere in a more public space looking like a photographer or videographer can really make the difference to perception versus looking like some random bub. Dress for success.
This isnt always possible or reasonable, but for those that can its just another way to elevate the experience for everyone.