Uniforms & Equipment

You should purchase a karate uniform as soon as possible. The karate uniform is called a “gi” and the belt is called an “obi.”

• “Gi” is pronounced like “gear” without the “r.”
• “Obi” is pronounced like the letters “OB.”

Purchasing a Uniform

You may purchase a uniform wherever you like, but this uniform from Amazon fits all our requirements. Please check the sizing charts to be sure you order the right size. Your instructor can help if you have any questions.

If you purchase a uniform elsewhere, it must be all white, with a wrap-around (not pull-over) top. Please do not wear a uniform with patches, decoration, or any other dojo’s name on it.

Trying On Your New Uniform

Your karate uniform will feel very large when you put it on for the first time. This is normal. If the waistband fits and the bottom of the jacket falls between mid-thigh and your knee, you probably have the right size, bug most people will need to hem their sleeves and pant legs.

• Sleeves should end between your wrist and mid-forearm.
• For safety, pant legs must be hemmed between your ankle and mid-calf.

Your Belt

The white belt that comes with your uniform will be extremely long. Don’t cut it! It’s designed to wrap around your waist twice, and be tied with a square knot, with enough left over for the “tails” to hang down between mid-thigh and your knees.

Your instructor can help you learn to tie your belt, but this YouTube video explains it well.

Wearing Your Uniform

Once you have a uniform, you should wear it to every class, and wash it after every class. Please wear the entire uniform together. Do not wear the belt without the jacket, or the jacket without the pants, etc.

You may wear a plain t-shirt under your uniform, but you should not wear your uniform over street clothes. Ladies may wear a sports bra and men should wear an athletic supporter with a cup.

You should avoid wearing your uniform in public, but please change into your uniform before entering the classroom.

Other Safety Equipment

All students participating in free-sparring drills must wear additional safety equipment: Everyone must wear a mouth guard and hand pads, and students under 18 must wear padded headgear. All of this equipment is available from your instructor.

What’s This Going to Cost?

A beginner’s karate uniform can be purchased for less than $50. When you’re ready for free-sparring, the additional gear you need, (headgear, hand pads, and a mouthguard) may be another $60.