A BJJ gi, a judo gi, a karate gi and a taekwondo dobok can look alike on a hanger. On the mat they are very different garments, built for grips, throws, strikes or kicks. Buy the wrong one and it rips, restricts your movement, or isn't allowed in competition.
This guide explains how the four main martial arts uniforms differ, what to check before you buy, and how clubs can order uniforms and belts with their own logo.
The four uniforms at a glance
| Uniform | Built for | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| BJJ gi | Gripping, ground work | Thick, reinforced jacket; tighter, shorter sleeves; strong pants |
| Judo gi | Throws and grip fighting | Heavy, thick jacket; longer, roomier sleeves and skirt |
| Karate gi | Strikes and fast movement | Lighter for sparring, heavier and crisper for kata |
| Taekwondo dobok | Kicks and footwork | Light, often V-neck pullover top, stretchy feel |
BJJ gis: the weave matters
Brazilian jiu-jitsu gis take the most punishment, because opponents grab and pull them constantly. The weave of the jacket decides how strong, heavy and warm the gi is.
- Single weave: lighter and cooler, good for warm gyms and beginners.
- Pearl weave: a popular middle ground: strong, fairly light and quick to dry.
- Double weave: heavy and very hard to grip, but hot and slow to dry.
Look for reinforced stitching at the armpits, collar and knees, a thick collar that resists grips, and pants with a strong drawstring or rope belt.
Judo, karate and taekwondo uniforms
Judo gi
Judo jackets are heavy and thick because the whole sport is built on gripping and throwing. Sleeves are longer and wider than on a BJJ gi. For competition, check your federation's rules on fit and colour before ordering.
Karate gi
Karate uniforms come in lighter weights for sparring (kumite), where speed matters, and heavier, crisper fabrics for kata, where the uniform's snap shows the technique. Many students start with a middle-weight gi that works for both.
Taekwondo dobok
Taekwondo doboks are light and flexible for high kicks, usually with a V-neck pullover top. Competition doboks may need specific trim colours depending on grade and organisation.
Competition rules: federations set rules for colours, fit and patch positions. If your students compete, share the rules with your supplier before ordering.
How to get the size right
- Use the maker's chart. Uniform sizes (A1, A2, 1, 2, 160, 170...) differ between systems and makers.
- Measure height and weight. Most charts use both. Between two sizes? Choose by height for adults and size up for growing children.
- Allow for shrinkage. Cotton uniforms can shrink after the first washes. Ask whether the fabric is pre-shrunk.
- Check the sleeves. For BJJ and judo, sleeves should reach close to the wrist with arms stretched forward.
Belts and club branding
Belts and uniforms are the easiest way to give a club a professional look. Clubs can add:
- Club logo embroidered on the jacket or printed patches on the back and sleeves.
- Student names or ranks embroidered on belts.
- Club colours on trims, collars and labels.
- Custom packaging for uniforms sold to new members.
Mukka Sports makes BJJ, jiu-jitsu, judo, karate and taekwondo uniforms and karate belts in Sialkot, Pakistan. Every uniform can be made to your size, colour, fabric and logo. Browse our martial arts uniforms or ask for a club quote.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a judo gi for BJJ?
You can for casual training, but judo sleeves are longer and wider, which gives opponents easier grips. Many BJJ competitions also have rules on sleeve fit, so a proper BJJ gi is the better choice.
Which BJJ gi weave is best for beginners?
A pearl weave or single weave gi is a good start: strong enough for regular training, lighter and cooler than double weave.
Will a cotton gi shrink?
Cotton can shrink after the first washes. Wash cold and air dry, and ask whether the fabric is pre-shrunk when you order.
Can you embroider names on belts?
Yes. Belts can be embroidered with names, ranks or your club logo.
Can our club order uniforms with our logo?
Yes. Send your logo, colours, quantities and sizes through the quote form or WhatsApp to get a sample and pricing.
Uniforms with your club's name on them
Tell us your art, sizes and logo. We will send a sample before your full order.
