Clothing & Equipment Recommendations
Karate Suit (Gi)
The gi is the traditional outfit of those who study karate. The belt (obi) changes in colour, depending on the grade of the wearer. These colour changes are the Kyu levels. Once the wearer reaches Dan level, they wear a black belt. Traditionally there are 10 Dan levels, but the colour of the belt does not change.
There are different weights of gi, which affect the thickness of the material. There are also different styles. The European style tends to have longer arms and legs, as the Japanese style is often cut to mid calf. It is recommended that if the student is still growing, a lightweight gi is most suitable, as these are the most comfortable to wear, and less expensive than the heavyweight gis.
Cimac Karate Suits
The Cimac lightweight 7oz karate suit is good quality and reasonably priced. It has an elasticated waist, and comes with a white belt. You can find it at a variety of internet shops, including Amazon.
They also offer an 8oz karate suit if you want a slightly heavier weight version that is still light enough for younger students, and also suitable for adults. Again, you can find it at a variety of internet shops, including Amazon.
All weights, and other brands are available at Martial Art Shop
Ikken Karate Suits
The Ikken lightweight 8oz karate suit is very good quality, with a nicer feeling material than Cimac, but it is more expensive than the Cimac karate suit. It is the Japanese style, has a drawstring waist, and comes with a white belt. It has limited availability, but can be found at Ikken Sports and Amazon. It is available in a variety of weights.
Blitz Karate Suits
The Blitz 14oz heavyweight karate suits are very good quality, and will typically last for years if taken care of properly.
The Diamond version is impressively durable, is the Japanese cut, and does not come with a belt. This suit is surprisingly easy to move in, and gives the ‘snap’ sound that so many martial artists love when a move is performed correctly. It is available on the Blitz website, and also on Amazon.
We do not typically recommend Blitz for lightweight karate suits, as their lightweight suits are prone to bobbling and wear very quickly.
Equipment
It is not recommended that you buy any equipment when you begin training in karate, as the club has equipment that you are welcome to borrow (except gumshields).
If you decide to make martial arts a more permanent part of your life, then may want to consider items such as protective head gear, fist protectors, shin guards, and gum shields.
Extras
Footwear
Traditionally, karate students train in bare feet. However, Dragon and Kitsune students have permission to wear socks when training, but they must have grips, due to health and safety.
Sleep socks are not appropriate, but there are a variety of grip socks available, such as the ones shown.
Kitsune students may wear martial arts shoes. These shoes must only be used when training indoors, for hygiene reasons. Examples include Taekwondo shoes, and Blitz shoes
