Karategi, also known as “gi” in martial jargon, is the traditional uniform used in karate. His role is essential, as he not only embodies the discipline and respect inherent in the martial art, but also contributes to the athlete’s performance and comfort during training or competition. In this text, we explore the cut and material of the karategi, as well as the differences between it and the judogi, the judo uniform.
The Karategi Cup
Karategi generally consists of two main pieces: a jacket (or “uwagi”) and pants (or “zubon”). In addition, a different-colored belt (or “obi”) is used to indicate the student’s rank.
The jacket is traditionally cut long and loose, usually reaching to the thighs. Sleeves are generally short, ending at or just below the elbow, allowing greater freedom of movement for the arms. The jacket’s thick, reinforced collar is designed to resist seizures.
The pants are also loose-fitting, designed to allow great freedom of leg movement. It usually ends at the ankle, with a drawstring or elastic waistband for a secure fit.
The Matter of Karategi
The traditional karategi material is cotton, renowned for its strength, durability and ability to absorb perspiration. Karategis can be made from 100% cotton or a blend of cotton and polyester. The cotton fabric offers a soft, comfortable feel, while the addition of polyester can increase durability and ease of care.
The weight of the fabric generally varies between 8 and 16 ounces. A lighter karategi is generally preferred for training in hot weather or for prolonged use, as it allows better ventilation. A heavier karategi is more durable and is often used in competitions or demonstrations, where the audible “snap” of the cloth during striking techniques adds to the visual effect.
Karategi vs Judogi
Although karategi and judogi look similar at first glance, there are several key differences. Firstly, the judogi’s cut is generally looser, and the jacket sleeves are longer, making it easier to perform gripping and throwing techniques. What’s more, judogi is often heavier and thicker than karategi, as it has to withstand the wear and tear of frequent grabs and falls.
The judogi collar is also different. It is wider and more flexible than the karategi jacket, making it easier for athletes to grasp and manipulate their opponent’s jacket. In addition, judogi is generally white, while karategi can be found in many colors, although white is also the most common color.
There are several renowned karategi manufacturers in the world. Here are some of the major karategi manufacturers:
- Shureido: Shureido is a company based in Okinawa, Japan, which makes traditional karategi. Their products are often considered to be of the highest quality and are prized by many karate experts.
- Tokaido: Tokaido is a Japanese manufacturer renowned for its karate uniforms. Their karategi are made from top-quality fabrics and are popular with karatekas around the world.
- Hirota: Hirota is a Japanese company specializing in the manufacture of high-end karate clothing. Their karategi are tailor-made and considered luxury products.
- Daedo: Daedo is a Korean manufacturer offering a wide range of quality karategi. Their uniforms are used by many competitive athletes.
- Adidas: Adidas is a well-known brand in the field of sportswear, including karategi. They offer a wide range of high-quality karategi for practitioners of all levels.
- Arawaza: Arawaza offers a wide range of karategi adapted to different levels of practice, from beginner to expert. Their uniforms are renowned for their meticulous workmanship, durability and comfort. They use top-quality fabrics and apply strict standards to guarantee high-performance products.
- Hayashi: Hayashi is a German brand that produces high-quality karategi. Their uniforms are appreciated for their comfort and durability.
- Kamikaze: Kamikaze is a German company specializing in the manufacture of karategi. Their uniforms are renowned for their precision fit and durability.
- Seishin: Seishin is a Japanese brand renowned for designing high-performance karategi. Their uniforms are designed using top-quality materials and are appreciated by demanding karate practitioners.
- Tozando: Tozando is a Japanese manufacturer offering a wide range of traditional and modern karategi. Their uniforms are prized for their build quality and aesthetic appeal.
- Fuji Mae: Fuji Mae is a Spanish company that makes quality karategi. Their uniforms are popular with karate practitioners at all levels.
- Punok: Punok is a Danish brand specializing in the manufacture of high-quality karategi. Their uniforms are made from durable materials and are appreciated for their precise fit and comfort. Punok offers a range of karategi adapted to the needs of practitioners of all levels, from beginners to experts.
- SMAI: SMAI is an Australian brand offering a wide range of martial arts products, including karategi. Their uniforms are renowned for their durability and modern design. SMAI offers a variety of options in terms of styles, cuts and fabrics to meet the individual preferences of karate practitioners.
It’s important to note that there are many other quality karategi manufacturers in the world, and each may have their own preference depending on the cut, style and quality required. It is therefore advisable to do thorough research and consult expert advice before choosing a karategi.