If you’re thinking about starting karate and don’t know how to choose your karategi, here are some basic recommendations. The first thing to consider is that there are different types of karategis, each designed for specific uses within the practice.
Karategis mainly vary depending on the type of training: some are more suitable for everyday practice, while others are designed for kumite (sparring) or kata (forms). There are also differences based on your level as a practitioner: beginners usually use simpler models, while intermediate, advanced, or competitive practitioners require more specialized karategis. The right choice will depend on your needs and goals in karate.
General Training Karategi
This is the most common type of karategi and is intended for daily training at the dojo or club. It’s designed for regular practice of basic techniques, kumite, and kata without competition purposes. Its main characteristics are:
– Lightweight and comfortable for easy movement.
– Made of cotton or a cotton-polyester blend.
– Suitable for both beginners and intermediate practitioners.
Within this category are also those known as “Kohai” (apprentice), “New Ipon” (basic), and “Shodan” (first degree).
Kumite Karategi
The kumite karategi is specifically designed for kumite (sparring) practice, where greater agility and freedom of movement are needed. Its main features are:
– Extreme lightness: its fabric is thinner to facilitate fast movements and reduce air resistance.
– Looser fit: so that the karategi doesn’t interfere with sparring and allows the user to move easily.
– Usually made of polyester.
Kata Karategi
The kata karategi is designed for the forms or established movement patterns of karate. It is mainly used for kata competitions, where precision and presentation are crucial. Its distinctive characteristics are:
– Thicker, heavier fabric: gives the uniform more structure, providing better presentation during kata execution.
– Wider cut: allows for larger movements with greater precision.
– It often makes a characteristic sound during fast movements, which highlights the technique in competitions.
Key Differences in Karategis
– Fabric weight: karategis can be classified as lightweight, medium, or heavyweight, depending on whether they are designed for kumite or kata.
– Cut: the cut can be tighter (for kumite) or looser (for kata), depending on the practitioner’s needs.
– Regulations: karategis for official competitions must comply with specific federation regulations, such as measurements, color, and logo.
In short, to choose the right karategi, you should consider the type of practice you will do and your level as a practitioner. If you are a beginner or are looking for a karategi for general training, opt for a light and comfortable one, suitable for daily use in the dojo. If your focus is on kumite, you will need a lighter and looser karategi that allows you to move with agility in combat. On the other hand, if you practice kata, it is best to choose a karategi with a thicker fabric and a wide cut that highlights your movements during execution. Also, if you plan to compete, make sure that the karategi complies with the federations’ regulations. The right choice will depend on your specific needs and karate goals.