Judo Gi Buying Guide — How to Choose the Right Judo Uniform

Whether you're buying your first judo gi or upgrading to a competition uniform, this guide covers everything you need to know — weight, weave, IJF approval, sizing and which brands to consider.

What is a Judo Gi?

A judo gi (also called a judogi) is the traditional uniform worn for judo training and competition. It consists of a heavyweight jacket (uwagi), trousers (zubon) and a belt (obi). Judo gis are specifically designed to withstand the intense gripping and throwing of judo — they're heavier and more reinforced than karate or BJJ gis.

Judo Gi Weight

Judo gi weight is measured in GSM (grams per square metre) and is one of the most important factors in choosing the right gi. Heavier gis are more durable and harder to grip — lighter gis are more comfortable for everyday training.

• 350–450gsm (Single weave) — Lightweight club gis for regular training. Comfortable, affordable and easy to wash. The Adidas J350 is a popular example. Ideal for beginners and juniors.
• 550–750gsm (Double weave) — Mid-weight competition gis. More durable and harder to grip. Suitable for regular training and club competition.
• 750gsm+ (Heavy double weave) — Heavyweight competition gis. IJF approved options fall into this category. Used by serious competitors and advanced practitioners.

IJF Approval — What Does It Mean?

The International Judo Federation (IJF) approves gis that meet strict specifications for international competition — including fabric weight, construction, fit and colour. IJF-approved gis are required for IJF-sanctioned competitions including the World Championships and Olympic Games.

For club training and most domestic competitions, IJF approval is not required. However, if you plan to compete at national or international level, an IJF-approved gi is essential.

IJF-approved gis are available in white and blue — blue is worn by the higher-ranked competitor in IJF competition.

Judo Gi Colours

• White — The traditional colour for judo. Used at all levels from beginner to elite.
• Blue — Introduced for international competition to help spectators distinguish competitors. Required for IJF competition alongside white.

For club training, white is the standard choice. Check with your club before buying blue.

How Should a Judo Gi Fit?

A judo gi should be loose enough to allow full throwing and grappling movement, but not so baggy that it gives your opponent excessive grip. IJF rules specify minimum sleeve and trouser lengths for competition.

• Jacket: Sleeves should reach the wrist with arms extended. The jacket should overlap by at least 20cm at the front.
• Trousers: Should reach the ankle with a maximum 5cm gap.
• Fit: Enough room to grip the lapel comfortably, but not excessively baggy.

Shrinkage: Cotton judo gis will shrink after washing — particularly heavier gis. Wash at 30–40°C to minimise shrinkage, or size up if you prefer a looser fit after washing.

Judo Gi Sizing

Judo gis are sized by height in centimetres (130cm–200cm for adults). Some brands also use a number system (1–7). Always check the specific size chart for the brand you're buying as sizing varies.

• 130–150cm — Junior sizes
• 150–160cm — Smaller adults / older juniors
• 160–170cm — Average adult
• 170–180cm — Taller adult
• 180–190cm+ — Large / tall adult

If you're between sizes, consider your build — broader practitioners should size up for jacket width, taller practitioners for sleeve and trouser length.

Which Judo Gi Brand Should I Choose?

Adidas

Adidas are the market leader in judo gis worldwide. Their range covers every level from beginner to elite competition:

• Adidas J250 — Lightweight kids' gi, excellent value for young judoka starting out
• Adidas J350 — 350gsm club gi for regular training, available in kids, mens and womens sizes. One of the most popular judo gis in the UK.
• Adidas Champion III — Top-of-the-range heavyweight competition gi, sold as separate jacket and trousers for a custom fit. IJF approved.

Cimac

Cimac offer excellent value club gis for beginners and regular training. Their gis are durable, well-constructed and available in a range of sizes — a solid choice for those starting out or training on a budget.

What Else Do I Need for Judo?

• Belt — Usually included with beginner gis. Your belt colour reflects your grade.
• Judo shoes — Not worn on the mat, but you'll need footwear to walk to and from the mat area.
• Mouthguard — Recommended for sparring (randori), particularly for competition preparation.
• Ear guards — Optional but recommended if you're prone to ear injuries from mat work.
• Gym bag — A ventilated bag to air your gi between sessions.

Caring for Your Judo Gi

• Wash after every session — judo gis absorb significant sweat during training
• Wash at 30–40°C to minimise shrinkage
• Air dry rather than tumble dry where possible — tumble drying accelerates shrinkage and wear
• Never leave a damp gi in your bag — it will develop mildew quickly

Summary — Choosing the Right Judo Gi

• Beginners / juniors: Adidas J250 or J350 — lightweight, durable and great value
• Regular club training: Adidas J350 or Cimac club gi in white
• Club competition: Mid-weight double weave in white and blue
• National / international competition: IJF-approved heavyweight gi — Adidas Champion III

Browse our full range of judo gis at Budo Online — with free UK delivery on orders over £70.