The first consideration when buying a karate-gi or karate robe should be the size of the karate gi / karate uniform. The size should directly correspond to the height of the karateka. This is the primary criterion. Other considerations for choosing karate gi are weight and length of the arms and legs. Avoid purchasing karate gi that fits perfectly at the stores. It is likely to shrink after a few washes. Purchase a karate gi that is slightly bigger, because such karate uniform will fit perfectly after a short period of usage.

KARATE GI comes in various colors. Many times the school determines the color of karate gi the students should have. Traditional schools prefer white karate gi. Other colors in use are black, blue and even red. Some schools introduce special patches on the karate uniform to distinguish themselves further.

The quality of the karate gi is also an important factor to consider. There are three types of karate gi sold today. The lightweight karate gi is about 6 oz in weight. It easily rips when grappled during extensive training. After extensive exercises, the karate uniform clings to the karateka in an uncomfortable manner.

Light canvas style material provides better quality of a karate gi. It is able to withstand vigorous training sessions without ripping. It has the capacity to absorb sweat and the karateka feels quite comfortable in such karate gi. This karate gi weighs about 10 oz. Such karate gi is the most popular. Manufacturers also make a heavier karate gi weighing 14 oz. The 14 oz karate gi absorbs the most sweat comparatively and keeps the player cool throughout the training session. Manufacturers have added another process to soften the canvas material and make it more comfortable for use. The only drawback with this type of karate uniform is that it takes up too much space in your training bag.

Traditional Karate Gi

The traditional karate gi comes with a drawstring waist. The drawstring waist helps to keep the pants from slipping off even when pulled. As an additional safeguard, the hem should be much wider than the drawstring. Lately manufacturers have added an elastic waistband to the pants of a karate gi. However, you still require a string to safeguard the elastic. The downside is that the elastic applies constant pressure on the stomach thereby hindering easy breathing during training.

The Different Cut of Karate Gi

Karate gi come in two cuts namely, traditional cut and tournament cut. The traditional cut karate gi has longer sleeves and pants compared to the tournament cut. Some believe the karate gi with tournament cut enhances speed and mobility. However, this is only a subjective opinion that has not basis on fact.

Once you find a karate gi that fits your purpose, it is advisable to purchase another pair of similar karate gi since you may not find another of such quality. There is no such thing as the best brand when it comes to purchasing karate gi. Manufacturers generally follow the same standards.