How to Choose your Karate Gi - Sizing & Models (2024)

Which Karategi Model

- The "light" model R9 is a perfect fit for Kumite. The fabric is thin and extremely light.
- The « versatile » model R2N, is a semi-heavy model adapted to both Kumite and Kata practices. Made of thick slightly bluish fabric, this Karategi impresses with its durability.
The heavy model R1N is undeniably a valuable asset for Kata practitioners. Comparable to a single layer Judogi, this model is the shining stone in KuSakura's Karate line. Ideal for experienced practitioners.
- The black model R3N is made from the same fabric as the R1N model. Adapted for both Kumite and Kata, this Karategi is optimized for Taijutsu as well as Ninjutsu practices.

Like all other KuSakura's Dogi in other martial arts, our Karate models are all 100% made from high-quality cotton and cut according to the same traditional cut. We strongly believe that by ordering to a Japanese company, our customers request the best suits currently available the market and this is what we yearn to satisfy.

Choosing Your Karategi Size

First of all, you need to know you current size in order to be able to choose the appropriate Dogi size for you. Our size recommendation takes shrinkage into account, however, if you base your choice on the product measurements given in the size tables above, shrinkage is not taken into account but the manufacturing measures (taken out of the workshop).
Our sizes are made from basic standards. Consequently, we highly suggest to practitioners whose weight is or tend to be over their ideal weight or between two sizes to consider the bigger size higher.

Since we indicate all important measures for all models to limit mistake on the size choice. Do not hesitate to measure your current Dogi for comparison.

The Different Fabrics

Usually, Karategi can be made from two fabrics, cotton and polyester (which comes most of the time as a cotton/poly blend). Here is a brief overview of the specificities of both fabrics.

100% Cotton

Considered to be the fabric of high-end models, 100% cotton made Karategis are heavier than polyester blend ones and are consequently a perfect fit for Kata or Kumite practitioners fond of heavy Gi. As it is a natural material, cotton made models are likely to shrink when washed (around 3 to 5% depending on the model for KuSakura Karategi). Although cotton tends to be a rather difficult material to take care of, it is usually highly recommended for practitioners demanding on quality and comfort during their practice.

Polyester Blend

In Karate, a blend of Polyester and cotton is usually used mainly to produce lighter and less expensive Karategi. Usually made from 65% polyester/35% cotton, this material is said to be easier to maintain and less likely to shrink when washed. However, this kind of fabric may cause the Gi to cling on the skin during long practice and is not breathable preventing optimum comfort.

KuSakura's statement mission has always been to provide its customers with the highest quality of equipment as possible. This is why you will find only 100% cotton made Karategi on KuSakuraShop.

Additional Services for Karategi

Because perfection does not exist, we offer three services in order to make our products as close to your needs as possible. All these services can be ordered directly on the product page when putting your Karategi into your cart and are all made within 4 business days.

Chest and Hips Cord

This option allows women to order the "Munehimo" consisting of a set of chords around the chest providing a perfect fit in every condition. While the chest chord is usually recommended for women, the hip cords can be ordered regardless of gender. The cord does not affect the comfort of the Dogi in any way.

Magic Tape

A modern version of the above cords, this option consists of a set of velcro tapes providing a perfect adjustment of the jacket during practice. Nonetheless, we would rather recommend the classic cords option, more adapted to all kinds of situations.

Sleeves Cut

The name of this option is quite self-explanatory. If you are interested in any model but would like a slight modification of the sleeves length to suit your needs, you may want to consider taking this option.