If you have decided that it is time to buy a Gi, we are ready to share our experience and tell you how to choose it correctly and what to pay attention to. First, it should be noted that the kimono, or, more correctly, training gi, is definitely the most comfortable clothing for training. The special cut, strengthening of the places which are exposed to the greatest physical influence, promote that you can concentrate as much as possible on training and feel comfortable. Properly selected gi can withstand the loads that can not cope with ordinary sportswear. Secondly, it is worth noting the moral factor. Appropriate form for sports disciplines and motivates to move forward.

Types of kimonos. What are the differences?

All gis are divided into three categories: gi for judo, karate and dobok for taekwondo. Each of these types of kimonos is designed taking into account the loads and features inherent in a particular sport. A feature of the kimono for judo is the type of fabric of the training jacket – “braid”. This is a very strong fabric that can withstand strong jerks, grips and other physical actions. High strength is ideal for martial arts such as judo, aikido, jiu-jitsu, etc. Plus reinforced seams, thick gate and additional reinforcement of the upper part of the kimono make it durable. But it has more weight than a gi for karate or taekwondo.

As a subspecies of such a braid, you can bring a gi for Brazilian jiu-jitsu. This type is characterized by a short jacket, compared with the usual judoka. In other respects, the differences are purely visual, as gis are often made in a variety of colors, sometimes with a large number of stripes. In terms of endurance it is similar to judo.

Gi for karate is lighter, although quite high density. The usual smooth fabric is used here. Reinforced cut in the area of ​​seams, additional inserts in the upper part of the kimono, in the area of ​​shoulders. Sometimes the manufacturer makes short sleeves. And very often in this type of gi you can find special strings, which in addition to the belt, keep the training jacket in a closed position, which is ideal for very mobile types of martial arts. For example, karate, in which there is a great practice of punches, movements (kata) and somersaults. It is much easier to wear such a gi, but its endurance is very inferior to the gi for judo in the case of a large number of hobbies and throws.

Dobok is a special form of taekwondo. The type and thickness of the fabric can be compared with a gi for karate, but it has its own design features. Due to the high mobility in the training and competitive process, the jacket is usually intact so as not to open during training. Sometimes manufacturers can insert a zipper, which fastens at the front and keeps the sides closed. It is characterized by the presence of a triangular cut on the chest. Due to the specifics of the training process, no special reinforcement of the jacket is provided. Light, comfortable, but not designed for serious physical and mechanical impact during training.

Kimono pants are similar in all types and manufacturers. The strengthened cut in the field of seams. Additional inserts in the groin and knees. All this allows the practitioner to move as freely as possible, and withstands most of the load. The strings may differ, but it depends on the manufacturer. Some people prefer ordinary laces, some people use an elastic band and a lace. In terms of wear resistance in general are plus or minus the same.

Materials for making kimonos

Cotton and synthetics are traditionally used to make kimonos. It should be noted that there are completely cotton training gi, and there is cotton with the addition of synthetic materials in different proportions. In today’s world, the clothing industry has come a long way. There are synthetic materials which on the properties surpass natural fabrics at the expense of bigger wear resistance, ability to keep the form, to take away moisture, etc. And all this is true, but not in the case of the kimono. From our own experience we can say that it is better to take 100% cotton. First, it is comfortable and convenient. It is completely cotton that will absorb excess sweat, will not rub and irritate the skin. This is especially important when choosing a kimono for a child. Secondly, let’s be honest, the aesthetic component, to put it mildly, is not so important. The main thing in training is to be comfortable, convenient and practical. And if you want it to be beautiful, you can buy an additional set of uniforms that will be used at performances or competitions.

In the training process it is better to prefer naturalness. Which, by the way, should also be considered when buying a gi. A cotton kimono shrinks when washed. So be sure to take not a size for size, but with a small margin: 3-6 cm. This way, after washing, it will sit as comfortably as possible.

Gi color. What are they and what to choose?

If you set a goal, you can now find a gi of almost any color. Though pink, though khaki, though with embroidered sakura flowers. But still the main colors of the kimono are three: white, blue and black. Although some manufacturers offer “unbleached” kimonos. That is a cheaper analogue of white, with all the same properties, but the fabric is not processed to white. It remains slightly yellowish. All previously listed types of kimonos are presented in white: for judo, karate and dobok. In black, as a rule, make a kimono for karate, i.e. thin. For judokas, as an alternative to white, blue is used.

Какого цвета бывают кимоно

Each color has its own specifics. White is the most common and versatile. Occurs in all manufacturers and is allowed in almost all types of martial arts. But it remains quite branded. Which, however, is solved by regular washing, which is already necessary for training things.

Black kimono at first glance solves this problem, but literally before the first or second wash. The dye washes out of the fabric very quickly, as a result of which it loses its original attractiveness and “marketable appearance”. It is almost impossible to tell whether a black gi has been washed 5 times or 105, so if a black kimono attracts you with its color, be prepared for the fact that it will lose this value quickly enough.

The most universal color is blue, although not allowed in all types of martial arts. On the one hand, it is not so much a brand as white, on the other – it holds color better than black. Although it depends on the manufacturer. In the Applied Aikido discipline, both blue and white kimonos are allowed.

The size of the kimono is always a multiple of 10. Depending on the manufacturer, there are sizes 110, 120, 130, 140 and so on up to 200, 210 cm.

Which gi to choose for Applied Aikido classes?

Decide on the color – white or blue, depending on your preferences. As for the type of kimono, this is a more individual moment. A white karate gi is perfect for a child. First, it is the most affordable, and that is the key point. Children grow up and have to change their clothes from time to time. This type of kimono is durable enough to last as long as you need to buy the next one. Secondly, it fully meets all the tasks set before it.

We always recommend taking a gi with a good supply. Even if you think it’s too big, sleeves and pants can always be tucked in and hemmed without cutting. Thus, in a year, when the child grows up well, you will be able to unravel the previously sewn “stock” and at least another year to remove the issue of buying a new gi. At the same time other parts, due to features of a cut, will not interfere with the child in the training process. By choosing a kimono in this way, you can be sure that you will have enough for at least two years. Which again will avoid unnecessary costs.

If you decide to buy a judo kimono, keep in mind that it will not be as comfortable to wear with rolled-up sleeves and it is better to take a more suitable one in size, but definitely considering the shrinkage aspect.

Kimono for an adult

Unlike a child, an adult no longer grows at least upwards. And here you can buy the most suitable gi at once. Add a few inches to your height – and this will be the answer to what size you need. In terms of the type of kimono, the most durable and effective will be the choice of gi for judo. It will withstand the load well in the training process. Namely on hobbies, throws, somersaults, etc. Remember: the main thing is to be comfortable. Then nothing will stop you from concentrating on the most important thing – the training process.