Martial art is such a demanding combat sport, in fact for many, it’s an integral part of life. People practice martial arts for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. A new martial artist must be wondering how to differentiate between Martial arts uniforms including BJJ Gi, Judo Gi, and Karate Gi.

There are certain variations in gis, so in this buying guide, we will overview the look, evolution, and functions of the most popular martial arts uniforms. Every martial art has its philosophy, techniques, or grading system. To cover all aspects or address the different concerns, each martial art has a specific uniform that they develop over time.

Different people practice different martial arts, such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, or Karate, with different needs and priorities during training or competition. All the respective martial arts uniforms also have unique characteristics simultaneously. We will dig deeper to evaluate the difference between different martial arts and their uniforms respectively.

BJJ Gi

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu does not require any equipment but the only thing you need is BJJ Gi. There is an overwhelming variety of gis available on the market and it’s not that easy to choose the right one for you. Keep in mind that not all gis are equal, they vary in weight, material, aesthetic, comfort, fit, and more.

Make your mind clear whether you need gi for training or competition, it’s fitting, required material, style, and affordability. One must focus on the following aspects while buying a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi.

• Weight

Light in weight, that is much more comfortable in hot temperature, they dry quicker and are conditioned enough. Such gis is easier to wear out as heavier gis is from substantial material. For a beginner, during training sessions, lightweight gis is most suitable whereas heavier gis is for competitions. As in lighter gi, it is easy to train as heavier gi are hotter to train in.

• Weaves

The type of weave determines the weight of the gi. Single weave gis is usually lighter in weight but not durable enough. On the other hand, double weave gis is heavier but more durable. A single weave gi is best for beginners and affordable for practitioners.

• Size

The most distinguishing feature is the proper fit of a gi. Whatever quality you choose, it will be useless if it does not fit your body type. A gi with short sleeves or pants will ensure an advantage because it would be harder for your opponent to grip you.

• Color options

There is a variety of colors but traditionally people go for white, black, or blue. Whereas white is the most common color for various schools and academies.

Karate Gi 

The Karate uniform or Karate Gi has various aspects, research well to make an informed purchase.

• Fabric

There are two types of fabric for karate uniforms, the first one is a blend of cotton and polyester and the other one is 100 percent cotton fabric. Usually, kids’ gis is made up of a cotton-poly blend which is less likely to shrink so best for everyday training.

However, cotton Gis comes in weights from light to heavy and usually the material is prone to shrinkage, and is best for competitions and demonstrations.

• Fabric Weight

Typically, lightweight Gis are between 5 to 6 ounces and are perfect for beginners. It would be best for everyday training as these are best for body movement and body cooling. Due to their lighter fabric, these uniforms are the most affordable among all.

Medium weight Gis is from 7 to 8.5 ounces, offers a good blend of weight and durability, and is a popular choice for everyday training.

Heavyweight Gis are best for instruction, demonstrations, or competitions. It weighs between 10 to 14 ounces and offers long-lasting durability.

• Sizes

These uniforms come in various sizes and usually, people depend on sizing charts to find the right fit. To avoid any wrong size, you must find your height and weight on the sizing chart.

• Colors

Usually, practitioners wear white and black uniforms, whereas those who have earned black belts wear color uniforms.

Judo Gi 

Due to the rigorous nature of Judo, the practitioner needs Judo gi that is well-constructed and durable. Check out the following features to get the right piece for you.

• Durability

Judo involves grappling and throwing opponents, so durability would be the most important thing. Always go for the highly durable fabric.

• Material

There is a variety of materials for judo practice and competition. Cotton keeps the body cool and comfortable during intense training drills. There are plenty of other options there as well, such as synthetic fabric like polyester. Therefore, cotton is breathable and the best choice of all.

• Weight

Weight is very important during endurance training. A lighter cotton Gi will offer more freedom of movement with increased airflow. Additionally, cotton gis is lighter and offer more freedom of movement. Synthetic leather too, will offer an excellent combination of durability and lightweight but allow less airflow.

• Size

Judo uniforms come in unique sizing scales, so one must always follow the size chart before buying.

Mixed Martial Arts 

MMA is not just for the ring where you fight to win titles and gain fame, it is largely famous for its effective defensive techniques. Every single different martial arts technique has been merged together to form MMA because of which you have a range of methods to use against your attacker.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

The first rule of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is, ‘no opponent is bigger or stronger than you, No matter your size, your strength or your situation, if you react quickly and use the taught technique properly, you can easily knock out any opponent thrice your size and strength. It is one of the best martial arts techniques for self-defense against attackers as it teaches you to use your whole body against opponents as leverage.

Keysi Fighting Method 

Keysi Fighting Method (KFM) originated in the streets of Spain by Justo Dieguez who used this to fend off multiple opponents at once. What sets this fighting method to the top is the fact that it does not require the use of kicks unless necessary, one has to use headbutts, elbows, punches, and jabs, and death-killing combo techniques to fight off attackers in closed, compact places such as alleys.

Krav Maga 

The deadliest and most bloodthirsty technique to ever learn if you wish to send your attacker into a world of pain is the Krav Maga. Developed by the Israeli defense force that helps one to survive life and death situations where every second is your last. Dubbed ‘The Art of Staying Alive’, unlike other forms of self-defense, you are taught to use offensive and defensive moves to disarm or completely annihilate your enemy. Once you learn this technique, you won’t just disarm your attacker, you will be out for blood and will finish the job.

Not for the faint of heart as its training is considered the most brutal and tough that can ever be devised by mankind. Strong kicks, decisive punches, and silent takedowns with bursts of combo attacks can send your opponent to the ground in seconds.

There we have it! Which one are you taking on?

Concluded Note

In the hunt for Martial arts uniforms, one must consider the type of fabric, weight, size, weaving, and durability. Check out StarPro combat to find the best Martial Arts uniforms including BJJ Gi, Karate Gi, and Judo Gi, without burdening your budget.