Introduction

Karategi – the white uniform worn by karate practitioners- is commonly noticed around. But have you ever wondered why they use it?

We got our hands dirty with old books and found the origin. Around the beginning of the 20th century, Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan karate, was in an attempt to carry forward the practice of Karate into Japan. In the process, he changed the names of many katas (a Japanese word meaning ‘form’) and the art itself to get approved by the Japanese budō (martial arts).

The use of white uniforms started here. The white uniform is a mix of kimono (a traditional Japanese dress), dogi (a traditional Japanese martial arts uniform), and colored belts to identify the rank. Let’s investigate why a lightweight karate dress is necessary and how to buy one.

Why is a Light Weight Karate Dress Necessary?

The karate gi was originally designed to give the practitioner freedom of movement, durability, and comfort. A karate gi is also the symbol of respect for the art, the instructors, and the practitioners. Henceforth, choosing a karate gi is as important as respecting the art.

While a heavy karate dress can protect advanced practitioners from injuries, it may restrict beginners from moving freely. On the other hand, a lightweight karate dress, in particular, helps beginners to move freely and comfortably during training.

Some more benefits of using a lightweight karate dress:

• More affordable than heavier karate dress
• Easier to wash and dry
• More comfortable and breathable for hot and humid environments

Tips to Choose a Light Weight Karate Dress

Here are a few tips for choosing a lightweight karate dress. And remember, if you are an advanced practitioner, something other than a lightweight karate dress may be suitable for you. Yet, you can choose this for everyday training as they tend to keep the body cooler.

1. Material

The fabric material depends on the karate gi’s type, weight, and cut. The most common fabric is cotton. The thickness and durability of cotton make it suitable for rigid and advanced practices.

Cotton may also be blended with polyester to make it more rigid and reduce shrinkage. While choosing a lightweight karate dress, look for polycotton karate gi as they are lighter than pure cotton.

You can also choose acrylic fabrics for sparring practices.

2. Size

There is a standard karate uniform size. Measure your height and weight and compare them with those standard sizes to get the possible perfect fit.

You can measure your chest, waist, and inseam to get an accurate fit. You can use these measurements to adjust the length of your jacket, pants, or belts if needed. Some tips for choosing the right karate dress:

• Choose a size that matches your height rather than your weight if you are thin.

• Choose a size that matches your weight rather than your height if you are thick.

• Choose a size that allows some room for movement and shrinkage after washing.

3. Style

A lightweight karate dress can have different cuts depending on the style of karate you practice or prefer. The most common cuts are Japanese, European and Kata cuts. 

• The Japanese cut has shorter sleeves and pants for less restriction and a longer jacket for better coverage.
•  The European cut has long sleeves and pants for protection and a shorter jacket for more effortless movement.
• The kata cut has shorter sleeves and pants for an aesthetic look and a tailored fit.

Get the Freedom of Movement With RSM Uniforms

With a wide range of comfortable, practical, and stylish options, RSM Uniforms can provide lightweight karate dresses for your style and preference. You can have your lightweight karate dress custom embroidered or printed with a logo, name, or other detail from RSM Uniforms.

Also, we offer fast turnaround times and competitive pricing, making us a trustworthy choice in Chennai. Get a quote and discuss your Karate dress needs with us today.

Wrapping Up

Karate gi is not just a uniform worn during practice, but it holds a deep meaning of respect towards the art, instructors, and fellow practitioners. When it comes to choosing a karate GI, it’s essential to consider factors such as material, size, and style to ensure comfort, durability, and freedom of movement.

Choosing a lightweight karate dress can be an excellent option for beginners as it provides much-needed flexibility and comfort during training. RSM Uniforms offers a wide range of lightweight karate dresses that cater to different styles and preferences. So, whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, contact us to get the freedom of movement you need during your karate practice.

FAQs

1. What is the weight of a Karate uniform?

The typical weight of a Karate uniform should be at least 0.34 kg. The standard weight is 0.34 kg or 0.40 kg. However, you can get a custom Karate dress for 0.45 kg based on your preferences.

2. Which is the best Karate dress?

The best karate dress should give you freedom of movement, speed, stability, and strength. You can choose your best Karate dress by experimenting with various styles, sizes, and fabrics used to make the Karate dress to determine which suits you the best.

3. What clothes to wear to Karate?

The traditional dress worn by Karate practitioners is called Karate Gi. It is a combination of traditional Japanese dress and Japanese martial arts uniform.

4. What dress should girls wear for Karate?

Every Karate practitioner is considered equal, and there is no separate dress for female practitioners. Using karate gi is also recommended for girls, while girls can choose the Japanese style for more coverage,

5. What colour is beginner Karate?

In most traditional karate systems, white is the color of the beginner’s belt. This symbolizes purity, innocence, and the beginning of the student’s journey toward mastery of martial art.