The extension, bending, surface, compression and structural characteristics, and the sensory properties of contact sensation, stiffness, ease of tightening and ease of knotting were investigated for flat braids, with various structures and fiber types. Ayatake braiding and Enshu braiding were selected as typical examples, and silk, promix and vinylon were chosen as the materials. All the mechanical characteristics were affected by the braiding structure, and likewise, except for the extension recovery and linearity of the compression-thickness curve, by the fiber type. The mechanical properties were studied in relation to the stretchability, stiffness, bulkiness and roughness. There were some preferential structures and fiber types in respect of the sensory properties. A factor analysis of the mechanical and sensory characteristics showed that the contact sensation and ease of tightening were mainly related to the extension and surface properties and to the thickness, while the stiffness and ease of knotting were closely related to the bending properties.