When you step into a karate dojo for the first time, you are entering a world rich with tradition and discipline. The uniform is a key part of that tradition. While it may look simple, this attire has deep roots in history and meaning. What are these karate clothes called?
We will guide you through the name, meaning, parts, and practical tips about this important equipment.
The Straight Answer: It’s Called a “Karategi” or “Gi”
To answer your question directly, karate clothing is called a Karategi (空手着). This Japanese word breaks down simply:
- Karate (空手): Means “empty hand,” which is the name of the martial art.
- Gi (着): Means “clothes” or “wear.”
So, “Karategi” literally means “karate clothes.” In dojos and competitions worldwide, people often shorten this to just “Gi” (pronounced with a hard ‘g’ sound, like in “get”).
Many beginners might say “karate uniform” or “karate suit,” but using the terms Karategi or Gi shows respect for tradition and is what real practitioners use.
Deconstructing the Karategi: Understanding Its Three Core Components
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The Uwagi – The Jacket
The Uwagi is the jacket or top part of the Karategi. It has a crossover, V-neck design that you always wear with the left side over the right. This way of wearing matches traditional Japanese clothes like the kimono.
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These jackets come in different weights, measured in ounces (oz). A light 8oz uwagi feels very different from a heavy 14oz one, which matters more as you advance in training.
The Zuban – The Pants
The Zuban are the pants of the uniform. They are loose and wide through the legs with extra room in the crotch.
This roomy design is key for function. It makes sure your movements aren’t limited, allowing for deep stances, high kicks, and smooth footwork.
Most Zuban have a simple drawstring waist. Some modern uniforms for kids or beginners might have an elastic waistband for ease, but the drawstring is standard because it stays secure during hard training.
The Obi- The Belt
The Obi is the belt, and it serves two purposes. Its basic job is to keep the jacket closed. But its main role is symbolic.
The color of the Obi shows the student’s rank and skill level. It visually represents the time, effort, and knowledge a student has gained in karate. The color progression is like a map of a student’s journey.
A typical belt color progression in many karate styles follows this path:
- White (Beginner)
- Yellow
- Orange
- Green
- Blue
- Purple
- Brown (Several levels, often 3)
- Black (Mastery levels, or Dan ranks)
Beyond the Fabric: The Symbolism and Philosophy of the White Gi
Have you ever thought about why the Karategi is almost always white? This choice has deep roots in Budo (the martial way) philosophy.
Purity and a Beginner’s Mind (Shoshin )
The color white stands for purity, simplicity, and lack of ego. When we put on a clean, white gi, we are symbolically clearing our minds of outside concerns and fixed ideas.
This connects to Shoshin (初心), or “beginner’s mind.” Shoshin means approaching your training—no matter how long you’ve practiced—with the humility and eagerness of a true beginner. The white gi reminds us of this mindset. It represents the idea that we are all empty vessels, ready to learn new knowledge.
As the JKA’s guiding principles explain, this spirit of humility and constant learning forms the foundation of true martial arts practice.
A Symbol of Equality and Respect
Inside the dojo, the uniform makes everyone equal. When all students wear the same white Karategi, differences in wealth, social status, or job disappear.
On the training floor, you’re not a doctor, mechanic, or student. You’re simply a karateka—a karate practitioner. This sameness creates strong mutual respect and community. The only difference between people is their belt color, which is earned through hard work in the dojo, not given by the outside world.
Choosing Your First Karategi: A Practical Guide Based on Experience
Picking your first gi can be confusing. With different weights, materials, and styles available, you might feel overwhelmed. Here’s some practical advice to help you make a good choice.
Lightweight vs. Heavyweight: It’s About Feel and Function
The “weight” of a gi, measured in ounces per square yard of fabric, greatly affects how it feels and performs.
- Lightweight Gi (6-8 oz): This gi feels light and “barely there.” It breathes well and allows maximum movement, making it great for Kumite (sparring) specialists and for training in hot weather. The downside is that it’s less durable and can feel flimsy.
- Heavyweight Gi (12-16 oz): This gi feels substantial, crisp, and structured. Many prefer it for Kata (forms) practice because the stiff fabric makes a sharp, audible “snap” during fast techniques—a sound often linked to good form. It lasts a long time but can be hot and more restrictive.
Our Recommendation for Beginners
We strongly suggest that beginners start with a medium-weight gi (around 9-10 oz). This weight offers the best balance: it’s strong enough to handle the pulling and grabbing of early partner drills, but not so heavy that it feels bulky or too hot. It’s the perfect, affordable option for your first few years of training.
Sizing, Shrinkage, and Material Matters
Check sizing charts carefully, but remember one important fact: a 100% cotton gi shrinks. We suggest buying a size that’s slightly too large, especially in the sleeves and pant legs. The first few washes, done in cold water and air-dried, will shrink it to fit better. Hot water and machine drying will cause major, often permanent, shrinkage.
The material itself also matters. Most gis are either 100% cotton or a cotton/polyester blend.
| Feature | 100% Cotton | Cotton/Polyester Blend |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort & Feel | Very soft, highly breathable. | Less breathable, can feel slightly synthetic. |
| Shrinkage | High (5-10%). Must be washed with care. | Minimal to no shrinkage. |
| Durability | Good, but can wear out faster. | Excellent, resistant to tearing and wrinkles. |
| Price | Generally more affordable. | Can be slightly more expensive. |
| Best For | Traditional feel, comfort in moderate climates. | Durability, low maintenance, hot climates. |
The Broader Context: How the Karategi Differs from Other Martial Arts Uniforms
The Karategi belongs to a larger family of martial arts uniforms called Keikogi (稽古着), which means “practice clothes.” Its modern design was heavily influenced by the Judogi (Judo uniform) created by Jigoro Kano. The history of the karate gi shows it was adopted to bring formality and structure to karate training.
However, key differences exist between various martial arts uniforms, each designed for the specific needs of that art.
Karategi vs. Judogi (Judo)
A Judogi is fundamentally different in construction. It’s much heavier and thicker, with a durable “rice-grain” or “diamond-pattern” weave. The lapels, shoulders, and knees are strongly reinforced to handle the constant grabbing, pulling, and throwing that’s central to Judo.
Karategi vs. Dobok (Taekwondo)
The Taekwondo uniform, or Dobok, is typically much lighter than a Karategi. The most noticeable difference is often the jacket. While some traditional styles use a crossover jacket, many modern Taekwondo schools use a V-neck pullover top, designed to stay secure during the art’s dynamic, high-flying kicks.
Karategi vs. BJJ Gi (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu)
A BJJ Gi looks similar to a Judogi but has a more tailored and tapered fit. The sleeves and pant legs are tighter and narrower. This design choice gives opponents less material to grip, which is a big advantage in the ground-based grappling of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Wearing It with Pride: Final Thoughts on the Karategi
So, the clothing worn in karate is called a Karategi. But as you now know, it is much more than just a uniform.
It connects you to the history of the art. The gi symbolizes a commitment to humility and equality. It is a practical tool specifically designed for your training needs.
Treat your gi with respect. Keep it clean, fold it properly, and wear it with pride. It physically shows your dedication to the path of the empty hand, a commitment beautifully summarized in the principles of the Dojo Kun (dojo rules) which guide our practice.
Every time you tie your belt, you’re not just getting dressed for class. You are continuing a tradition and visibly representing your personal journey in karate.
5 FAQs
- What are karate clothes called and what does the name mean?
The traditional karate uniform is called a “Karategi” or simply “Gi.” The term comes from Japanese where “Karate” means “empty hand” and “Gi” means “clothes” or “wear.” - What are the three main parts of what karate clothes are called?
The karategi consists of three main components: the Uwagi (jacket), the Zuban (pants), and the Obi (belt), each designed with specific functions for karate training. - Why are traditional karate clothes called karategi always white?
Karategi are traditionally white to symbolize purity, simplicity, and “Shoshin” (beginner’s mind). The white uniform also creates equality among practitioners regardless of social status. - How do I choose what karate clothes are called for beginners in 2025?
For beginners in 2025, a medium-weight karategi (9-10 oz) offers the best balance of durability and comfort. Consider sizing (allowing for shrinkage) and material composition based on your training environment. - How does what karate clothes are called differ from other martial arts uniforms?
While similar to other martial arts uniforms like the Judogi, Dobok, or BJJ Gi, the Karategi is uniquely designed with a medium-weight fabric ideal for karate’s striking techniques, blocks, and forms.
