What are the funny clothes that Karate people wear?
The white uniform is called a gi [g as in game] and is short for keikogi or practice uniform. It was taken from the uniforms used in Judo. Until the 1920’s, there was no official uniform of Karate. The entire thing was the creation of a Judo instructor, and he also created the color belts that people wear as well. The Karate gi is lighter and weaker material than the average Judo uniform these days. It is also bright white designed for comfort, freedom of movement and for sweat absorption. Having a uniform is not required until taking the first examination but we do have them available in the dojo for purchase. Uniforms cost approximately $25.00 – $35.00 for average sizes.
