Feel like a Karate Master with these Best Karate Gi
I don't know if you're like me, but I used to buy cheap Karate uniforms. The problem with them low-quality uniform is that they are so poorly made that don't last long and they don't look good. That might be okay when you're a beginner, but when you reach the green or blue belt, it's worth investing in a quality uniform.
In this article, I will cover the following:
- What are the Best Karate Uniforms?
- Shureido Uniforms
- Tokaido Uniforms
- Seishin Uniforms
- Why should I buy a high-quality Karate uniform?
- Conclusion
I wrote this guide for you so that you can make the best decision when it comes to buying a Karate-gi (yes, its called Karate-gi, NOT kimono!).
What are the Best Karate Uniforms?
So, you're looking for the best Karate gi? You've come to the right place. I've been practicing Karate for 35 years, so you can probably guess that I tried many brands of Karate uniform. Let me talk to you about my favorite ones.
Before we start, I'd like to mention that I reviewed only high-end Karate uniform. Every company or brand have uniforms of various quality and price, but in this article, I'm focussing on superior quality Gis only.
1. Shureido Uniforms
I'll be honest right off the bat, Shureido has been my favorite brand of Karate uniform for more than 25 years. For those who might not know, Shureido is well-known, long-established, world-famous Karate Gi manufacturer from Okinawa, Japan, the birthplace of Karate.
In my honest opinion, Shureido provides the highest quality Karate uniform on the market. Like any Japanese company, they aim to fully satisfy their customers by taking exceptional care of their products. Every Shureido uniform and belt are cut and sewn by hand. If you go to Shureido store in Okinawa, you can even buy custom-made uniforms made by their master craftsmen.
You can clearly see by examining a Shureido Karate uniform that attention to detail goes into every uniform. Every Gi is made in Okinawa, with superior craft and using the best in sewing techniques and material. The result is excellent looking Karate uniforms that are durable and resistant. While the classic karate gi has seen many variations in fabric and stitching, Shureido's basic design has remained untouched for years.
This review is based on my TK-11 Shureido Uniform .
The fit and cut
I love Shureido's cut the best. Compared to Seishin or Tokaido uniforms, Shureido has a more relaxed cut (loose cotton top and pants). These loose-fitting uniforms are designed for comfort and allow a wide range of movement during training. Sure it's a bit baggy, but that's what I like about it. Be sure to choose the size well as Shureido uniforms are made large.
The material
Shureido only uses the best material; all their Gi's are made from a special Japanese linen canvas. What I like about the Shureido's fabric is that it isn't too heavy or rigid; it has just the right firmness and holds its shape very well, even after years of usage. The material is really tough; it can handle grabs and pulls without any problem. Don't be surprised, a new Shureido gi is slightly blue-hued, which fades over time. Shureido "blues" its fabric to guard against yellowing.
The top
As you guessed it, Shureido uniforms have the traditional Okinawan cut - longer jacket, shorter sleeves, and shorter pants. It feels great every time you put it on for a training session. Because the top is loose-fitting, it's is very comfortable, and it uses unique stitchings that keeps the shape of the Gi intact, even after many times washing it.
The pants
Like to top, Shureido pants are looser than other Karate uniforms and are also very comfortable, which is something I love. They sit comfortably on the waist with enough room for stretching and kicking. Depending on the model, they come with either 2 or 4 loops for the cord, and like the Gi top, they can take lots of punishment.
Overall
As I said at the beginning of this article, I really love Shureido. It's actually my favorite uniform company, and it has been for years. That's why I can confirm that the quality of this uniform is fantastic and that it can deal with hard training. Other reasons why I like Shureido uniforms so much is that they look good, and are super comfortable. With Shureido, you'll get the best quality without the slightest compromise. I've been using Shureido uniform or more than 25 years, and I'll definitely continue to do so.
Highlights
- Made with high-quality Japanese linen canvas,
- The uniform has a loose cut,
- Very comfortable and doesn't restrict movement,
- Uncompromised quality,
- Can endure tough training sessions,
- Reinforced stitchings
- Blue hue helps protect the white keikogi from yellow discoloration
Considerations
- The uniform has a loose cut, some people like it, some don't (I do!)
- Be careful when choosing a size, Shureido are made loose,
Shureido Datasheet
Material: Original blue-hued Japanese 100% cotton (linen)
Weight: 1.8kg
Cut type: Okinawan Cut (shorter sleeves and pants), loose cut
Quality: 5/5
Comfort: 5/5
Durability: 5/5
Price: $250 to $345$ USD
Other models available: NW-1/NW-2, KC-10/TKC-10, K-10/TK-10/KB-10/TKB-10, KW-11/KB-11, KA-9
For more information, check the Shureido Uniform on Amazon .
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