| A traditional karate suit is an important part of any | | | | although the look and feel is important, remember that |
| karate enthusiast's kit and as with any product; there | | | | karate training is arduous and will place physical |
| are different quality materials that can be purchased | | | | demands on the clothing as well as the student, so |
| so it is worth taking time to consider the options prior | | | | investing in a higher quality material is advantageous in |
| to purchase. A karate suit by its very nature needs to | | | | the long term. |
| be robust as sparring sessions will test the material | | | | Weights vary but typically are:o 8oz - Very lightweight |
| comprehensively. It is worth remembering that although | | | | material that could easily tear or rip.o 10oz -cotton |
| the karate suit must be hardy, it must also be flexible | | | | canvas which is more durable.o 12oz - Average |
| otherwise the student will find that they are restricted | | | | weight choice of many studentso 14 oz -Additionally |
| in movement and this then defeats the object. | | | | durable but also a popular choiceo 16 oz - A heavier |
| Due to the different styles of karate, variations of | | | | fabric favoured by more experienced practitioners. |
| design are available; however the easiest way to | | | | Younger students realistically need not purchase the |
| ensure that the right style is purchased is to check out | | | | most expensive quality suit as they may need to |
| the suits that other students are wearing at the karate | | | | replace them due to out-growing them over a period |
| club of your choice. Existing students or the instructor | | | | of time and this would then become an expensive |
| will be happy to give guidance when it comes to | | | | purchase, in addition, many younger students tend to |
| locating a supplier in order to purchase a suit and also | | | | lose interest after a while or become attracted to new |
| will advise as regards the exact style necessary. A | | | | sports or different martial arts styles and therefore, an |
| karate suit (is also known as a karategi) and is similar | | | | expensive purchase would just become too |
| to a judo suit in style although one noticeable | | | | extravagant. When joining any martial arts club it is |
| difference is that many karate students wear their | | | | worth remembering that it is a serious investment in |
| belts much longer. | | | | terms of money as well as time, invest only as much |
| Each student can choose the weight of suit that feels | | | | money as is feasibly required in the early stages until |
| right for them on a personal level so ideally it is useful | | | | sure that the style and club is right on an individual level. |
| to at least try the suit on in the shop or to take a look | | | | The most important thing to remember prior to |
| at a suit worn by students at the club as this will | | | | purchasing is comfort, flexibility and durability and this |
| answer many of the questions you might have. Many | | | | will ensure that your karate suit will be a good buy for |
| newer students favour the lightweight suits, but | | | | some time to come. |