Kids Karate Uniforms

Whether you're just beginning martial arts training or you've been a practitioner for years, you may have encountered challenges in finding uniforms that have the right fit. Contrary to the popular saying, one size doesn't fit all when it comes to martial arts uniforms. Moreover, a single size might not fit correctly either. After all, many of us aren't proportionate; we may require a larger top and a smaller bottom, or vice versa. Unfortunately, though, many people - especially those just starting out - buy ill-fitting uniforms from their instructors. But before exploring the possibilities for well-fitting uniforms, let's look at the basics:

Basic Martial Arts Uniforms

The type of uniform you need depends upon the type of martial arts training you're taking. For example, karate uniforms are significantly different than judo uniforms. In the Japanese practice of judo, the judoka uses his opponent's strength against him, and therefore needs a thick jacket that is difficult to grab. For that reason, judo uniforms - or judogi - typically consist of a pants and a quilted cotton jacket that is much thicker than karate jackets. There are also single weave jackets, which are lighter and more useful in long practice sessions to prevent overheating, and thick double weave jackets that are essential for competition.

In contrast to karate uniforms, judo uniforms, and tae kwon do uniforms, which are cotton and feature a crossover front with a belt closure, traditional kung fu jackets are typically made from silk and feature a front button closure. Those practicing kendo - the Japanese equivalent of fencing - usually wear a hakama and a kimono.

One of the latest trends in uniforms is martial arts cargo pants, which combine comfort with versatility. The cargo pants are available in a variety of colors, including camouflage prints, and usually have a stripe running down the outside of each leg.

Mixing and Matching

When you buy martial arts uniforms from a dojo or dojang, you normally buy a set consisting of the same size and color pants and top. Today, however, there are online sources where you can mix and match sizes and colors that fit both your body shape and your sense of style.

When you purchase martial arts uniforms online, it's important to pay close attention to the site's size charts and buy tops and pants that will fit well. It's not uncommon for the best sites to carry sizes ranging from 000 (which would most likely fit a three-year-old) to 12 (which would fit someone well over six feet tall). Taking an extra moment to get the right fit will make you feel better and more confident while practicing or competing.

It's also important to select the proper fabric weight for your specific martial art and skill level. A beginner, for example, might go with a medium weight karate jacket, while an experienced practitioner might need a super-heavyweight fabrication.

If you're part of a demo team, you can easily outfit your entire team in their proper sizes, and find a wide selection of color schemes from which to choose.

Finding the right martial arts uniforms is, of course, only one element of learning the arts. However, when you get the right fit, you can more easily concentrate on developing the stances, values, and mental preparedness that will enable you to excel.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Martial Arts Uniforms or Majon's Sports directory.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Robertson

Martial arts supplies and uniforms are available in various sizes, styles, and brand names. If you're new to martial arts, you should be especially careful when choosing a uniform because everyone's body shape, height, and figure are unique. Be sure to buy the type of uniform that will fit you comfortably and provide the flexibility you need during training and workouts. This beginner's guide will help you find the uniform and martial arts supplies that are right for you. Martial Arts School Requirements

Before buying a uniform or other martial arts supplies, find out what your school, or dojo, requires. The traditional color for karate uniforms is white with white, black, or brown belt colors; however, some schools require specific colors or special patches that distinguish their school from others. Some dojos might limit you to only one particular uniform color while others might offer a variety of choices. It really depends on the school.

Also, become familiar with uniform terminology so you'll know which style to buy. There are varying styles for different types of martial arts. Karate uniforms are called "karategi" or "karate gi." Judo uniforms are called "judogi." There are also specific uniforms for taekwondo or jujutsu. Uniforms worn by practitioners are often called "dobok." You can use the terminology related to your particular martial arts interests to search for uniforms or martial arts supplies online.

Sizing Your Martial Arts Uniform

Your uniform size should correspond with your height, but his may vary from one brand name to the next. It's a good idea to know your height and even the measurements of your hips, arms, waist, and legs before you start shopping. If shopping online, some stores might offer measurement and size charts for martial arts supplies and uniforms. If purchasing a uniform made of 100 percent cotton, be sure to buy pre-shrunk material or buy a slightly bigger size in case the material shrinks in the wash.

Quality vs. Weight of Material

Martial arts uniforms are available in a variety of materials and styles, but not all are equal. Uniforms made of 100 percent cotton are the most popular choice for two reasons: cotton breathes and it absorbs sweat. Polyester/cotton blends do not absorb sweat that well, but are usually less expensive. If you're concerned that a cotton uniform will wrinkle too easily, don't worry. During practice, the wrinkles will usually work their way out anyway!

Another feature to consider is the weight of the material. Uniforms come in lightweight, medium, or heavyweight fabrics. Read the weight of the uniform on the packaging or tag, as described in ounces. Heavier materials are usually priced higher, but beware of manufacturers' labels that claim "heavyweight" material when it really weighs the same as another brand that's lower in price.

Lightweight uniforms, which are the least expensive, usually weigh about 6 ounces, and work great for beginners who aren't sure if they're going to stick with martial arts classes. Medium uniforms weigh around 10 ounces and work great as far as absorbing sweat and providing flexibility. Heavyweight uniforms weigh about 14 ounces and are also called "Master karate uniforms."

Other Uniform Features

Look for a martial arts uniform with a drawstring waistband if possible. These are often preferred over elastic waistbands because the drawstring secures the pants while doing kicks and other moves. Be sure the hem of the waistband is at least twice as wide as the string to prevent jamming after the uniform has been washed. Also, you can choose either traditional cut or tournament cut styles. Traditional cut means the pants and sleeves are longer. The tournament cut style has shorter pants and sleeves. Other features to look for include a double inseam and gussets in the pants, interlocked stitching in several rows over the pant legs and sleeve cuffs, and a generous cut to allow liberal motion during workouts. Buying Martial Arts Supplies Buy martial arts supplies as you need them, not all at once. You'll want to limit your spending at the start just in case you decide not to continue with your training once you get a feel for it.

Ask your martial arts instructor what supplies and safety items are required to get started. Then, gradually add items as you learn more about martial arts. You might also want to buy a few items to help with home practice such as focus targets, exercise equipment, punch bags, strike pads, or weights. Other martial arts supplies include safety products for bodily protection, training clothes and shoes, and martial arts weapons. There are many well-known brand names for martial arts supplies and uniforms such as Arawaza, Tokaido, BudoNord, and others. Look for brand names that are of high quality and that offer products to fit your needs and style. You can compare these easily online to get an idea of what's available. To get started, check out martial arts supplies and uniforms on the Web today!

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Beginners - Martial Arts Supplies or Majon's Sports directory

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Robertson