Do you wonder why it's important to have a sports equipment bag? Let's break it down. Whether heading to the gym, running, or attending a yoga class, having a bag specifically for your sports gear can make all the difference. And let's not forget about the style factor as well!
Organization: The foremost advantage of a sports equipment bag is its ability to keep you organized. With designated compartments and pockets, you can neatly separate your sneakers, workout clothes, water bottle, and other essentials, saving you the hassle of endless searching.
Convenience: Everything you need can be found in one place, making your pre-and post-workout routines a breeze. Say goodbye to frantic searches for keys or headphones; they now have their dedicated spot in your bag.
Protection: A good sports bag acts as a shield for your gear. It prevents your shoes from soiling your clothes and safeguards your water bottle from ruining your electronics or important documents.
Style: Using a stylish sports equipment bag can enhance your motivation to exercise. It reflects your style and encourages you to visit the gym or run.
Now that you understand why a sports equipment bag is essential, let's discuss selecting the perfect one. Here are some key factors to consider:
Size: Think about what you need to carry. If you're a yoga enthusiast, a smaller bag may suffice. However, weightlifters or those with more equipment might require a larger bag. Make sure your bag accommodates your essentials comfortably.
Durability: Budo Online's bags are crafted from top-quality materials designed to withstand regular use. They feature reinforced stitching and robust zippers, ensuring they can handle the rigors of your active lifestyle.
Compartments: Consider how many pockets and compartments you need. Some of our bags come with separate shoe compartments, water bottle holders, and even laptop sleeves. Select one that aligns with your lifestyle and organizational preferences.
Comfort: Consider comfort features if you plan to carry your bag for extended periods. Our bags feature padded shoulder straps and back panels to ensure a comfortable and pain-free carrying experience.
Style: Here's where you can truly make the bag your own. Choose a style that resonates with your personality and complements your workout gear. You'll find the perfect bag whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a vibrant and colorful design.
Now, let's delve into the world of stylish sports equipment bags and how they can enhance your workout experience:
Fashion Forward: A stylish sports bag is more than just a utility; it's a fashion statement. When you walk into the gym or your fitness class with a trendy bag over your shoulder, you're not just another face in the crowd; you're making a statement about your style.
Motivation Boost: Have you ever noticed how a new workout outfit can boost your motivation? The same applies to a stylish sports bag. When you have a bag you love, you're more likely to look forward to your workouts, infusing an element of excitement into your routine.
Versatility: Our stylish sports bags aren't limited to the gym; they can easily double your everyday bag. This versatility ensures you get more value from your bag, making it a worthwhile investment.
Organization Made Easy: Our stylish sports bags are thoughtfully designed with compartments and pockets to keep your essentials, like your phone, keys, and wallet, separate from your workout gear. No more rummaging through a chaotic mess!
Confidence Booster: Carrying a stylish sports bag can boost your confidence. You'll be more self-assured during your workouts when you look good and feel great about your gear. It's a subtle yet powerful psychological effect.
A fashionable sports equipment bag is more than a place to store your workout gear. Choosing a stylish sports bag can help you make a statement with your fashion sense, increase your motivation, and keep your essentials organized and easy to access during workouts. A sports bag with a great design can enhance your fitness routine and reflect your style. Get ready to impress others at the gym and confidently approach every workout session. Upgrade your fitness game with Budo Online's collection of stylish sports equipment bags!
]]>Imagine kicking and punching without worrying about hurting yourself or your training buddy. That's where kicking pads come into play. Kicking pads are designed in a way so they can absorb the impact of any strikes made by martial artists. They protect you as you and your partner practice your skills while wearing them. These pads come in all shapes and sizes, made from stuff like leather, foam, and vinyl – kind of like your very own arsenal of protection.
Let's find out how Kicking pads in martial arts can be your secret weapon in mastering skills:
Think of kicking pads as your sparring partner that never gets tired. You can precisely practice your kicks and punches, aiming for that perfect target. Plus, they work like a charm when you must find out if you're doing things right or need to tweak your technique.
Ever wanted to go all out without worrying about hurting someone? Kicking pads give you that green light. You no longer need to hold back once your sparring partner has kicking pads. These pads allow you to go full power, which is crucial for building your power and strength.
Speed is your superpower in martial arts, and guess what? Kicking pads are here to help you level up. When you use kicking pads as a target that you must hit precisely, you enhance your kicking skills and develop lightning-fast moves that leave your opponents wondering what happened.
Endurance is your ticket to going the distance. By constantly practicing your strikes, these pads help you build the stamina to keep swinging those moves without fumbling one bit.
Working with kicking pads isn't a solo act – it's like a dance between you and your partner. This coordination is like your secret weapon for real-life situations. You'll be quick on your feet and ready to handle whatever comes your way.
Check out the variety of kicking pads waiting for you:
They're like your boxing buddies. Focus mitts are small, handheld pads perfect for practicing punches. Ask your partner to hold them and start kicking. They are excellent to refine your accuracy and speed.
Meet your kick-friendly pals! Muay Thai pads are larger and designed for practicing kicks and punches. They're all about soaking up those powerful strikes while your training buddy holds them steady.
Think of shield pads as your wall of protection. They're big, rectangular, and are built to handle your punches and kicks while training. You and your partner team up to make sure you're perfecting your moves safely.
Heavy bags are your go-to when you want to go full-on beast mode. These bags are known for absorbing strikes no matter how hard you hit them. Thus, they are perfect for helping you build serious power.
Picking the right kicking pads is like finding your martial arts soulmate. Here's what to look for:
Make sure they match your training style. Kicks? Go for larger pads. Punches? Smaller ones will do the trick.
Find durable materials like leather and foam to handle your strikes like a champ.
Comfort is key. You want pads that feel good in your hands and don't cause any discomfort.
Kicking pads come in all price ranges. Find ones that suit your wallet while giving you top-notch training.
So there, we have everything one must learn about kicking pads' impact on their training. Kicking pads are like trusty sidekicks in one's martial arts journey. Kicking pads in martial arts help you achieve what you always dreamed of being as you keep practicing on them to finesse your techniques and stamina. You'll be unstoppable in the dojo and beyond with the right pair of kicking pads and some dedicated practice. So, embrace the magic of kicking pads – your martial arts adventure just got much more exciting!
When you're in the middle of an intense match, the last thing you want is your shoes sliding around or feeling uncomfortably tight. A snug fit is the cornerstone of wrestling shoe design. It ensures optimal support and stability and prevents unnecessary movement inside the shoe. The sweet spot lies in finding shoes that offer a secure fit without being overly restrictive. Furthermore, comfort is paramount, especially during those grueling training sessions and lengthy matches. Consider the level of cushioning and padding inside the shoe to ensure maximum comfort and reduced fatigue.
Wrestling is a sport that hinges on control and stability. The right wrestling shoes provide the grip needed to maintain your stance and execute maneuvers precisely. Look for rubber outsole shoes that offer excellent traction on various surfaces. Some wrestling shoes even boast specialized tread patterns or pivot points that amplify traction and maneuverability. This solid grip can make all the difference in maintaining your balance and gaining the upper hand.
Wrestling demands lightning-fast movements and nimble footwork. Your shoes should never hinder your ability to move naturally. Seek shoes with a flexible sole that allows your feet to bend and twist as needed. Moreover, pay attention to the flexibility of the upper material to ensure it doesn't restrict your range of motion. Every twist, turn, and lunge should feel fluid and unhindered.
Intense physical activity generates heat and sweat. Wrestling is no exception; sweaty feet can quickly become uncomfortable and even a liability. This is where breathability comes into play. Look for wrestling shoes with materials like mesh or perforated panels that promote air circulation. This airflow helps maintain your feet's coolness, dryness, and comfort, lowering the chances of discomfort and possible foot problems.
Wrestling isn't for those easily discouraged. The sport puts your equipment in tough trials of durability. This is why durability is a crucial factor when choosing wrestling shoes. Seek out shoes made from high-quality materials that can withstand the demanding nature of wrestling. Reinforced stitching, robust overlays, and sturdy construction are telltale signs that wrestling shoes are built to last.
These shoes are the epitome of wrestling footwear. With their lightweight build, maximum support, and exceptional stability, they're a wrestler's dream. The breathable upper part ensures your feet stay cool even in the heat of battle. The Adidas Tech Fall 2.0 Wrestling Shoes are your ticket to dominating the mat with confidence and finesse.
These Adidas Wrestling Shoes are a fantastic option for wrestlers and boxers alike. With their eye-catching gray, red, and white design, you'll make a statement when you step onto the mat. The lightweight yet durable construction provides the grip and support for lightning-fast movements and powerful strikes.
Style meets performance with these black and white trainers. Designed to deliver you with exceptional speed, agility, and support, the Adidas Adizero Varner shoes are tailored for wrestlers and boxing enthusiasts alike. Their snug fit and lightweight construction make quick movements and precise footwork a breeze.
When you step into the ring with the Adidas Mat Hog 2.0 Wrestling Boots, you're making a bold statement with their striking red design. These low-cut boxing shoes are built to last, providing excellent traction and support for those lightning-fast movements and powerful strikes. The breathable upper keeps your feet comfortable during intense training and matches.
Introducing the Adidas Combat Speed 5 Wrestling Shoes, a top-notch choice for wrestlers seeking the perfect balance of speed and stability. With their sleek design and lightweight make, these shoes offer the support and traction you need for swift movements and quick reactions. The durable build ensures they'll withstand the rigors of the sport while keeping your feet comfortable and ready for action.
Wrestling is a demanding sport that calls for commitment, determination, and proper equipment. Speaking of equipment, wrestling shoes take center stage as a crucial element of your performance arsenal. From fit and comfort to traction, flexibility, breathability, and durability, the key features of the best wrestling shoes can significantly impact your performance on the mat. The selection of top Adidas Wrestling Shoes for men, such as the Adidas Tech Fall 2.0, Havoc, Adizero Varner, and Mat Hog 2.0, offer various options to suit different preferences and styles.
So, whether stepping onto the mat for a training session or gearing up for a competitive match, investing in quality wrestling shoes is an investment in your success. These Wrestling Shoes For Men aren't just footwear; they're your partners in perfecting your moves, dominating your opponents, and achieving your wrestling aspirations. Choose wisely, lace up, and prepare to seize victory, one well-placed step at a time.
]]>Whilst browsing the internet looking for new trends in martial arts whilst sourcing new equipment I came across an article from 2018 regarding martial arts and boxing being banned in UK prisons. I could not find any new data on whether this has been overturned or looked at all but it piqued my interest into common misconceptions about martial arts that the wider public, parents, and those who haven’t practiced may have such as fostering violence and increasing aggression. Evidence suggests that this couldn’t be further from the truth and that martial arts and boxing could offer significant benefits when integrated into prison programs. Currently, the practice of martial arts is banned in UK prisons due to fears that inmates could misuse these skills to increase violence. However, research and expert opinion highlighted by BBC News, The Telegraph, and The Guardian suggest that these concerns may be misguided, and martial arts could serve as a powerful tool for rehabilitation and reducing reoffending.
Understanding Martial Arts Beyond Combat
Martial arts are often misunderstood as solely teaching individuals to fight effectively. However, as pointed out in a report by the Telegraph, these disciplines are founded on principles of respect, discipline, and self-control. They are not about instigating violence, but about harnessing one's energy into a productive form of self-expression and personal development.
The Potential Benefits of Martial Arts Training in Prisons
A Call for a Paradigm Shift
The BBC report on prison reform suggests that the current ban on martial arts in UK prisons may overlook the potential benefits of such training for prisoners. By embracing the principles of discipline, respect, and self-control that underpin martial arts, prisons could transform lives and reduce reoffending rates.
The incorporation of martial arts into prison programs should, of course, be carefully regulated, with appropriate safeguards in place to prevent misuse of the training. However, with thoughtful implementation, it could represent a significant step forward in how we approach rehabilitation in the UK prison system. The positive impact on the lives of those in prison and society at large may be profound. Hopefully progress has been made since 2018 or maybe the topic has been forgotten completely but making it an option is surely worth consideration.
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In a world dominated by online retail giants like Amazon, eBay and Google, it's easy to overlook the hidden gems in our local communities. Small businesses, and in our case local martial arts shops, often go unnoticed despite their invaluable contributions to the community. Today, we invite you to explore the significance of supporting these small martial arts shops and how your choice can make a positive impact.
When you step into a local martial arts shop, you're greeted by more than just products. You're welcomed by knowledgeable and passionate individuals who genuinely care about your martial arts journey. These shop owners and staff members have a wealth of experience and can provide personalized guidance, helping you find the perfect gear, training equipment, or attire for your specific needs. Their expertise and attention to detail create a warm and engaging shopping experience that leaves a lasting impression.
By supporting small martial arts shops, you're investing directly in your local economy. These businesses often source their products from local manufacturers or artisans, fostering a cycle of support within the community. Your purchases contribute to job creation, income generation, and a thriving local economy. Additionally, small businesses are more likely to reinvest their earnings back into the community, supporting local schools, events, and initiatives.
One of the downsides of large online platforms is the sheer volume of options, making it challenging to distinguish between quality products and inferior imitations. Local martial arts shops, on the other hand, take pride in curating a collection of high-quality gear and equipment. They carefully select items that meet rigorous standards, ensuring durability, performance, and safety. By shopping locally, you can have confidence in the quality of your purchases and invest in gear that will stand the test of time.
Local martial arts shops provide a hub for like-minded individuals to connect, share experiences, and build relationships within the community. These shops often host workshops, seminars, and demonstrations, fostering a sense of camaraderie among martial arts enthusiasts. By actively engaging with your local martial arts shop, you become part of a close-knit community, where you can learn from others, exchange knowledge, and forge lasting friendships.
Choosing to support local martial arts shops aligns with eco-conscious practices. By shopping locally, you reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping and excessive packaging often seen with online giants. Moreover, local shops tend to emphasize sustainable practices, such as recycling programs, eco-friendly packaging, and supporting environmentally responsible suppliers. By making a conscious decision to shop locally, you contribute to the preservation of our planet for future generations.
When you search for "martial arts shops," it's not just about finding the nearest location to buy your gear. It's an opportunity to support a small business that embodies the values of community, expertise, and ethical practices. By embracing your local martial arts shop, you make a meaningful difference in the lives of those behind the counter, the economy, and the environment. Let's celebrate the essence of these small businesses and strengthen the bonds within our martial arts community. Together, we can empower local businesses to thrive and create a brighter future for all.
]]>To see our collections of Karate suits please click the following:
1) The basics
2) Sizing
3) Gi Type & Cut
4) Material, Weight, Cost & Quality
5) Gi Care
1) The Basics: What is a karate gi and how does it differ to other martial arts uniforms
A karate uniform is sometimes called by its Japanese name 'karate do-gi' or 'keiko-gi' (training clothing) or more commonly used outside of Japan is just the word 'gi' (clothing/uniform) which is pronounced 'ghee'. The same applies for other ‘budo’ (martial way) Japanese martial art uniforms, for example 'judo-gi' or aikido-gi.
It is believed the founder of judo; Jigoro Kano developed the do-gi that is similar to that used in most budo martial arts clubs today. This uniform was later modified to further fit the requirements of karate training by the Shotokan karate founder Gichin Funakoshi. Over the years the karate gi has developed further, notably reducing its weight and adding ties inside the jacket to help keep it closed and various styles/cuts of the material and gi shape have become popular. Before karate became more main-stream in Japan it is believed it was practised in casual clothing in its earlier days in Okinawa. Some clubs continue this tradition or allow the first few lessons to be practised in casual but practical clothing to see if the person enjoys karate before having to purchase a uniform, this is something that would need to be confirmed first with the club instructor.
Karate gi’s are generally white cotton uniforms with a cross over jacket; 'uwagi' (upper uniform) that forms a v-neck shape when closed and has matching white 'shitabaki' or 'zubon' (pants), they are worn with a 'obi' (belt) corresponding to the persons grading rank.
The pullover v-neck tops that do not fully open like a jacket are more commonly used for martial arts like taekwondo and the coloured gi’s (black, blue, red etc) are more commonly used in freestyle and other martial arts however some karate clubs also use these types of gi but they are a minority. It is advisable to see what the other students at the karate club are wearing and to speak to the club instructor to see if there are any specific requirements for the gi before purchase just to make sure. Sometimes competitions require a certain type or cut of gi that must adhere to the competition weight and sizing requirements, most good quality correct fitting gi’s will meet these but it is something else worth thinking about (maybe less so for the beginner).
The jacket: The 'uwagi' should allow room to be able to punch and rotate the arms and twist the waist without restriction. The jacket should be long enough to pass the waist, there should be enough (suso) 'jacket skirt' material hanging under the belt so that it does not easily ride up and become un-tucked over the belt when performing standard movements, 4 to 8 inches below the belt is usually standard. The (sodeguchi) 'sleeve cuffs' should finish before or at the wrists (some people prefer them shorter) and not be long enough to pass over the hands. The left side of the jacket should be on top/outside of the right side of the jacket so that the (hidari-mae-eri) 'front left lapel' runs from the top left to the bottom right. Supposedly wearing the (migi-mae-eri) 'right front lapel' over the left signifies death in Japanese culture so best to get that 'right' (left).
The pants: The 'zubon' need to be designed in a way to allow maximum leg movement/freedom as karate contains kicks and stances that are very diverse. This is usually achieved by the pants having a wider cut and extra joining material under the groin area. When kicking, correct fitting pants should not cause restrictions around the thigh or groin area of the pants. The (suso-guchi) 'bottom of the pants or pant cuff' should finish just above the feet (again some people prefer them shorter) and not be long enough to be resting on the floor so that there is no chance of tripping on them or catching any part of the foot inside them, 3-5 inches smaller than leg length is standard. Most traditional pants will have a high level of adjustment around the waist from a draw string. Elastic waist band pants are also available with some gi’s, these are more commonly worn by beginners and children but not exclusively.
The belt: It is not uncommon for karate gi’s to not include a ‘obi’ (belt), in fact most higher quality karate gi’s usually do not, beginner gi’s sometimes include a standard white belt. I won’t go in to details about belt types or how to tie a belt in this article but just make sure the belt is long enough to wrap around twice and after tied should hang down at the front ending somewhere close to the bottom of the jacket, belts that hang too far down not only look daft but get in the way of techniques, I have even known beginners to get flicked in the eye by the end of their own belt when kicking, this should obviously be avoided by buying the correct size belt and tying it correctly.
2) Sizing: Choosing the correct size gi seems to be one of the most problematic factors when purchasing a gi. Whilst there can be slight differences in sizes from one brand to another, you should be able to get somewhere close by following these steps. From experience some brands seem to be more generous on sizing than others (see the brands section), this can also become more apparent if buying the wrong type/cut of gi (see the type/cut section).
Karate gi's usually have two elements for the sizing, for example size 4 / 170cm. However, just because you may be a size 4 in one karate gi you may be a size 5 in a different brand and type of gi. These sizes can also differ for different martial arts e.g judo and bjj. This is most notable with karate gi’s due to there being differences sometimes with Japanese and European gi’s/manufactures. For example size 4 in a Japanese manufactured gi can sometimes be 160cm where in a European gi it is usually 170cm. To best avoid this I would advise to always look at the measurement in cm and select the size from that rather than the single digit ‘size’ for example pick one that states 170cm rather than just size 4. Some suppliers will have an age range estimate for the kids gi sizes, although maybe useful for a general guide I would advise paying more attention to the height and measurement size chart than this. Here is the measurements for the adidas WKF approved Champion 17oz Japanese cut gi:
The other main point to remember when picking the correct overall size in cm is what the measurement is actually for. I have spoke to people in the past that got confused with this as they assumed the measurement in cm is the combined length of the actual uniform, i.e. jacket + pant length. This is not correct; the measurement given on the gi size in cm corresponds to a person’s height in cm not the actual gi length. For example if you are 5ft 7” convert that to cm's which is 170cm and that is the gi size that should fit you e.g. size 4 - ‘170cm’.
There are however other factors to consider, if you have a much larger or smaller than average build you may need to go up or down a size (this is usually easier when half sizes are available e.g. 175cm). Some karate gi's will also have a size chart that details the individual measurements for each size of the gi for example you can see the inside/outside arm and leg length and jacket length etc of a 170cm gi.
Karate gi sizes usually range from;
Kid sizes; 0000/100cm to 2/150cm
Adult sizes; 3/160cm to 8/210cm
Although you should always check the individual size chart of a gi as each brand can differ a general guide example for sizes would be something similar to below:
Kids
0000 100 cm 3" 6' and under
000 110 cm 3" 6' to 3" 7'
00 120 cm 3" 8' to 4" 0'
0 130 cm 4" 1' to 4" 4'
1 140 cm 4" 5' to 4" 8'
2 150 cm 4" 8' to 5" 1'
Adults
3 160 cm 5" 1' to 5" 5'
4 170 cm 5" 5' to 5" 9'
5 180 cm 5" 10' to 6" 0'
6 190 cm 6" 1' to 6" 3'
7 200 cm 6" 4' to 6" 7'
8 210 cm 6" 7' and over
Shrinkage is also something to be considered. As explained below pure cotton gi’s do shrink, how much depends on the material, weave/density, if it's pre-shrunk and how you wash/dry your gi (see gi care below).
Cotton gi’s can shrink by around 4-8% on the arms/legs (sometimes as much as 10% on some lower cost cotton gi’s) they tend to shrink most on the first few washes. If the gi seems just slightly too big when first tried on it may be worth keeping it to allow for a little shrinkage, sleeves and pants can always be hemmed if too long, however if the gi seems far too big and hangs over the hands/feet then it would be worth exchanging for a smaller size (you won’t be able to return a gi if it’s been washed so this is something that needs to be considered when first tried on).
The shrinkage on Poly-Cotton blends or polyester gi’s is less than entirely cotton gi’s, some even have zero shrinkage so can sometimes be preferred for children. Some higher priced cotton gi’s come pre-shrunk already when purchased, this minimises shrinkage, beginner low cost cotton gi’s are often not pre-shrunk. It is advisable to allow for 2-4cm shrinkage on this type of gi, most noticeably on the arms and legs.
3) Gi Type & Cut: Over the years the karate gi has developed, there are now different types of karate gi available that better suit different styles/types of training, competition, grade, build and personal/club preference.
There are two (or four depending how you split them) main karate gi cuts to be aware of. These are; Japanese and European cut. There are also Kata (pre arranged forms) and Kumite (sparring) cuts, although a kata gi can be used for sparring and a kumite gi for kata these cuts are more for personal preference or competition and aesthetic reasons. The difference in cut may be slightly favourable in terms of freedom of movement for either kata or kumite training but as most karate training consists of both these things a good gi should be generally ok for all aspects of karate training. Usually a kata gi is closer in comparison to a Japanese cut gi and a kumite gi closer to a European cut. Kumite gi’s are usually lighter than kata gi’s.
The Japanese cut features shorter sleeves and pants with a longer jacket, the kata gi is almost an exaggerated version of this. The European and kumite cuts are opposite to this and usually have longer sleeves and pants.
There is sometimes conflicting information about gi cuts, there is also extra confusion as on top of the distinction of the type of cuts of karate gi above there are also gi’s that are sometimes referred to as either a tournament or traditional gi. Generally a ‘tournament’ gi is a heavyweight gi with shorter sleeves and pants similar to a Japanese cut, however some European cuts are sometimes also called 'tournament' gi's. Usually a ‘traditional’ gi will be a heavyweight gi, sleeve and pant length seem to differ on these depending on the brand/style it is, sometimes Japanese cuts are also referred to as “traditional” gi as well which can make things very confusing : )
If you remember that the Japanese/kata cuts have shorter sleeves/pants with a longer lapel and European/kumite gi’s have longer sleeves/pants sometimes with a shorter lapel and are usually lighter (especially if it’s a kumite one) you should hopefully be ok.
4) Material, Weight, Cost & Quality: adidas adi-zero kumite giNew material and weave combinations are constantly developing and being used for various karate gi’s. The main two materials used for karate gi’s are cotton and polyester. There are also different weaves such as single weave (lighter and cooler) and double weave (heavier and thicker) to name the main two. Each material/weave has different advantages and disadvantages but ultimately it comes down to personal preference.
Cotton used to usually be preferred to the poly-cotton or polyester gi’s, usually the cotton gi’s are more expensive. Cotton gi’s do shrink more than poly-cotton gi’s, but pre-shrunk cotton gi’s are available. There are also now gi’s that have a material from a polyester core wrapped with cotton that feels similar to a cotton gi but is more durable and lighter.
Some gi’s can come in a brushed cotton or a none brushed or stiffer canvas material. Brushed cotton is usually lighter in weight and more comfortable. Canvas gi’s are usually more durable and can give a crisper snap to your techniques. Some gi’s; (usually lighter kumite style gi’s) can now have ventilation and moisture features such as climacool.
While the cost and quality of a gi differs from brand to brand (anywhere from around £7 to £197) 'usually' the lighter poly-cotton gi’s are the cheapest and more commonly used by beginners. The heavier and thicker the gi is, the more expensive it often is due to the material used. Thicker heavier gi’s are ‘generally’ preferred by more advanced karate students (unless a specific kumite lightweight competition gi is desired such as the Adidas Adi-Zero gi pictured above). Karate gi weights from lightweight to heavyweight are usually split up into the following categories:
Lightweight: 4oz to 8oz usually used by beginners and children (apart from the kumite specific or purpose built premium light gi's). Can be good for agility but material can sometimes be a little thin.
Middleweight/light-heavy: 9oz to 12oz these are more durable than the lightweight gi’s and are often used more by intermediate level students or advanced students that prefer a slightly lighter than heavyweight gi.
Heavyweight: 14oz to 16oz these gi’s are made from a heavy drill cotton or canvas or double weave cotton. These are generally preferred by more advanced students, usually these are of a higher quality and cost more due to the material used however they are a lot more durable and should last a long time.
Brands: It would be implausible to name all the ever increasing karate gi brands and possibly unfair to compare them in terms of quality, especially when each brand tend to offer many different individual level/quality of gi’s. Instead I will briefly mention some of the brands I have had the opportunity to have experience with and that are known to have a great reputation for karate gi’s. As mentioned in the sizing section different brands usually differ slightly in terms of quality and sizing of gi’s. For example some people may find that a Blitz gi seems to be slightly more generous in size when comparing to the same size adidas gi etc. Some high end traditional karate gi companies/brands for example Tokaido offer custom fit gi's (this is usually rare) such gi’s can be expensive but are great quality.
For gi’s that are easily available in the UK, suppliers such as Cimac and Blitz to name two I have dealt with often offer a great range of karate gi’s from lightweight beginner low price gi’s to high quality heavyweight advanced gi’s. There is also the supplier Budo Online, which I hear are great : ) (our company so obviously biased). For the student looking to get a high quality gi I would recommend checking out the following brands, all have a great reputation within the karate community: adidas, Arawaza, Cimac, Odachi/White Diamond from Blitz, Hayabusa, Meijin, Seishin International, Shureido, Tokaido and Tokon. Some of these may be a little high end for the beginner but such gi's usually ensure great quality and last longer.
5) Gi Care: Hopefully this article has helped a little for choosing the correct gi, when you have purchased a gi it is important to follow certain methods to ensure the gi lasts for as long as possible.
Washing: It is important to wash a gi as soon as possible after a heavy training session, do not leave it screwed up in a bag for a day or two! You should turn the gi inside out when washing and ideally use cold or lukewarm water to prevent shrinkage and maintain the colour and shape. Never wash above 30-40 degrees centigrade. If possible use an organic or non-bio detergent, a standard laundry detergent may be ok though. Don’t use bleach, vinegar or bicarbonate of soda on a gi. Sometimes people use bleach on a gi if it has turned a slight different colour in areas, however this will weaken the gi especially if used more than once and may lead to further discolouration, it is best to prevent any discolour in the first place from correct gi care.
Washing a karate belt... Some people feel you should never wash a karate belt, especially a 'yudansha' (black belt grade). This is thought to be to do with the karate tradition, honour, respect, dedication to achieve the belt etc this will be a matter of personal preference though. Personally if my belt needed washing I would wash it. Belts should not need washing as often as the gi though, if put on just before and took off straight after training and handled with care (not thrown on the floor) it shouldn’t get all that dirty/sweaty, after a period of time if it needs washing, carefully wash by hand and dry naturally, similar to gi’s belts can shrink, (sometimes more than gi’s) washing machines and definitely tumble dryers should be avoided. Extra care should be took with silk/satin belts.
Drying: You should dry a gi naturally; hang drying outdoors is the best method or close to a radiator. Tumble dryers should be avoided! This will cause the gi to shrink and loose its shape and strength. You can starch and iron the gi after a wash if required, ideally; iron the gi inside out and avoid any fine embroidery, print or patches where possible.
Storage: Pretty obvious but gi’s should be kept hung up when not in use in a dry place (usually called wardrobes) with the ultimate aim of having a wardrobe just for multiple karate gi’s : ) when taking your gi to and from training don’t screw it up inside a small bag (this is more common after a hard training session when tired) this will save time preventing ironing and help the gi last longer and be fresher. There are several ways to fold a gi (it should be hung up as soon as possible) that can help when transporting it and preventing creases. You should try and fold along the seams to prevent creases or you can use these two popular methods of folding when transporting a gi: 'shikaku no gi' (squarely folded gi) or 'maki no gi' (rolled gi) I won’t explain methods for these here but if you do an internet search I am sure there are articles and videos showing these methods of folding a karate gi.
Hopefully you have found something of use throughout this article, if so please do give it a like or share. Please note this advice is from my personal experience from karate training and working as a martial arts retailer and should only be used as a ‘guide’. If you would like to re-use/publish this article (it has to be in its entirety with accreditation) then feel free, if you spot any glaring errors, would like to discuss anything in the article or just want extra advice on purchasing a karate gi you are more than welcome to comment below or send me a message at info@budoonline.co.uk
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If you visit a Japanese temple, inside you can stumble upon a round window “The Window of Enlightenment” and a square one “The Window of Ignorance”, its sharp edges are like the impurities of the mind, whereas the round one represents a perfect state of mind – Nirvana.
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