Karate Uniforms Primer: How to choose and where to buy
by Alexander Dolinin
This unbiased advice on karate uniform shopping will save you a lot of time, disappointment and money. It is not sponsored by any manufacturer or retailer, but based on nearly 20 years of personal karate experience and feedback from my fellow karatekas. Any links to or mentions of specific manufacturers or retailers in this article are for your convenience only and are not meant to be an endorsement.
Most questions a beginner asks about karate uniforms (also called “gi”) fall into two categories: “How to choose one?” and “Where can I buy it?” Let's look at them one by one (or you can jump to a specific topic by clicking a link below).
How to choose a karate uniform
Where to buy karate uniform
How to choose karate uniform
Does the uniform comply with the school's requirements?
- Definitions
- Keiko Gi or just Gi (pronounced: keh-ee-koh gee)
· Training uniform, karate uniform.
- Dojo (pronounced: doh-joh)
· Training hall, karate school.
Before you start shopping for a karate uniform, you have to find out if there are any specific requirements for a uniform at your karate school (also called “dojo”). Traditionally, karate uniforms were white and belt colors were confined to white and black, with a later addition of brown. Nowadays, many dojos are trying to distinguish themselves by using more colors for their uniforms and belts, or by special patches that should go on a uniform. Requirements vary greatly, so be sure to ask.
For example, being a part of SKA (the oldest karate organization in the US), at Carson Valley Dojo we practice traditional karate and our gi color is traditional white. If you buy a karate uniform to practice at any of our dojos, please know that no other uniform colors are allowed. Other, less traditional schools, might allow blue, black or even a festive red, white and blue of the US flag with plenty of room for all your favorite martial arts patches. Of course, the uniforms color at a dojo doesn't necessarily reflect the level of karate instruction you will receive there. But you wouldn't want to invest in a karate uniform that you couldn’t use. Does it come with a belt?
- Definition
- Obi (pronounced: oh-bee)
· Training uniform belt.
Beginners often wonder if karate uniforms come with belts (also called “obi”). Most karate uniforms are sold as a set of top (jacket) and bottom (pants) and come with a generic white belt. If you have to buy a top and a bottom separately (maybe you are short and have wide shoulders, in which case a standard uniform set will be either too tight around your shoulders, or the pants will be too long), make sure to order a belt separately. If you're buying from a local karate supply store, ask if they would throw it in free of charge. Some shopkeepers will gladly do so, especially if your order is large.
100% cotton or a polyester blend?
A lot of discount karate uniforms are made of cotton and polyester blends (usually 50/50). Some people like the fact that these uniforms are wrinkle-resistant. If that's important to you, then go ahead, but be ready to drip more sweat. Polyester is not a good sweat absorber, nor does it breathe well and you will feel it. 100% cotton is the best material for serious practice. And once you start practicing, the wrinkles fall right out.
Light, medium or heavyweight karate uniform?
Karate uniform weight is referring to the weight of the fabric out of which it is made. Pay attention to the weight described in ounces of a uniform (ex.: 8 oz.), not to the category name a manufacturer slaps on it (ex.: medium weight). The higher the weight category, the more expensive a uniform can be, so some manufacturers and retailers tend to exaggerate. Usually, karate uniforms fall into one of the following 3 categories:
Lightweight (around 6 oz.), a.k.a. Student karate uniform. It is usually the least expensive kind of uniform, but will not last you long if you do a lot of grappling. If you’re a beginner, and not sure how long you'll stick with karate, a lightweight uniform will make a fine choice.
Medium weight karate uniform (around 10 oz.). This is the most versatile uniform weight. It will withstand a lot of abuse, soak up a lot of sweat and keep you comfortable at most temperatures. Often, this is the best value for your money.
Heavyweight (around 14 oz. and higher), a.k.a. Master karate uniform. An excellent choice, especially if you practice a lot of grappling. It will last you the longest, absorb large quantities of sweat and keep you comfortable in most situations. The only complaint I've heard about heavyweight karate uniforms is that they take up more space in your training bag. Drawstring or elastic waistband?
Traditional karate uniform pants come with a drawstring waist. The drawstring keeps your pants secure, even if pulled on. Just make sure the hem through which the drawstring goes is at least twice as wide as the drawstring itself. Otherwise the string tends to get jammed after the pants have been washed or are soaked in sweat.
Instead of, or in addition to a drawstring, a lot of uniforms sport an elastic waistband. Some people prefer the convenience of a waistband, but I wouldn't rely on it to keep your karate pants on. If you must have it, make sure there is a string to back up the elastic. But then, you're back to tying a string. Why bother with the elastic at all? It only puts constant pressure on your lower abdomen, interfering with your breathing. It’s your choice.
Traditional or tournament cut?
Traditionally cut karate uniforms usually have longer sleeves and pants, while a “tournament” cut uniform's sleeves and pants are slightly shorter. Some think it makes it harder to grab and does not get in a way while fighting. Some just prefer the look of it. Either choice will not help you win a fight.
Details that matter
The difference between a good karate uniform and great karate uniform is in the quality and craftsmanship of the details. In addition to a wide hem for a traditional drawstring, the pants should have gussets and an additional double inseam to prevent an inconveniently embarrassing rip. You'll also appreciate things like several rows of interlocked stitching over the cuffs of the sleeves and the pant legs. It'll prevent them from folding over after having been washed a few times. One more feature to consider is the cut of the uniform; a generous cut will not restrict your motions. As with most things, craftsmanship makes all the difference.
Which size should you buy?
Karate uniform sizes correspond to your height, but vary depending on manufacturers. Know your height before visiting a karate supply store. In a good store, they'll help you choose a uniform based on your height. In a great one, they'll also consider your weight, and the length of your arms and legs. Keep in mind that cotton uniforms shrink after a few washes. So choose a slightly bigger one than that which fits perfectly in the store.
Which brand is best?
If you find a uniform that fits all your preferences, the brand name should not matter. And if you do find that perfect gi, go back to the store and buy another one immediately. It might be hard to find that “just perfect” one again.
Beyond the obvious practical requirements for a karate uniform outlined above, the question of brands is very subjective and often depends on personal preference. To avoid misinforming and imposing my subjective opinion on you, I will not recommend any specific brands here. A perfect karate uniform for one person will not be suitable for another one's needs. Armed with this article, you will be able to choose the one that is perfect for you.
Where to buy karate uniform
Now that you know what to look for in a karate uniform, you are ready to plunk your money on the counter. There are plenty of places that will be happy to trade your cash for a gi, each has some pros and cons.
- Beware
- Some schools will sell you an inexpensive karate uniform, or even throw it in for free if you sign up for X number of months. These cheap or free uniforms are often of a poor quality or used. Before getting such a “great deal”, make sure it complies with the guidelines above.
Karate schools
A lot of karate schools sell karate uniforms. The uniforms they keep in stock comply with the school's guidelines, but your choice is usually limited, especially if you have some special requirements.
The prices for karate uniforms sold at schools tend to be higher. But, if a uniform fits and you are able to support your dojo by paying a little extra, you might consider buying it there.
Local shops
If you want to support the local economy and get personalized service, consider a small local karate supply store. A good store will have a few brands of karate uniforms in stock, making it easy to compare and choose. A knowledgeable shopkeeper will be able to answer your questions and accommodate your special requests.
- Beware
- Don't succumb to a sales person's recommendation, always make sure that a karate uniform fits your selection criteria.
In exchange for better service, be ready to pay higher prices and have a somewhat limited selection.
Sports equipment chain stores
Even if you find a general sports equipment store that sells karate uniforms, avoid buying yours there. Though the price may be a bit lower then in a small karate supply store, the quality of uniforms is usually poor and, in most cases, mirrors poor customer service. If you can't resist a low sale price, consider buying it online.
Online stores
This is where you'll find the biggest selection and often get the most for your money, but only if you know what to look for. Since you've read this far, it is safe to say that you are well informed and unlikely to make a wrong choice. There are tons of online stores to choose from, many of which have a brick-and-mortar location.
The same rules apply to online shopping as to buying from the regular stores (see above). The main advantage: you can get the exact uniform you want for the best price. The main disadvantage: you can't touch it or try it on. If you need to buy a top of one size and a bottom of a different size and you have to try it on, you should find a small local karate supply store instead. But if you know what you're looking for, or if you just want your first inexpensive karate uniform, the convenience and low prices of online shopping are hard to beat.
P.S. Just for your convenience, I've included a few links to good karate uniforms I found on Amazon.com:
Conclusion
So there you have it; Karate Uniform Purchasing 101. Hopefully you’ll choose a gem of a gi and enjoy many years of sweaty practice in it.
«back | top of the page ↑
Article Copyright: © 2006 Alexander Dolinin. All rights reserved.
|
