Karate gi size guide
Almost every first karate gi is bought too small. Here is the size chart, how a gi is actually meant to fit, and why buying the size that looks right is usually the wrong call.
Gi sizes go by height, not age
This catches out nearly every parent. Karate gi sizing has nothing to do with age or with normal clothing size — it is based purely on the wearer's height in centimetres.
Stand the student straight against a wall, measure to the top of the head, and use that number. Two children the same age can easily need sizes two apart.
Karate gi size chart
- Size 0000 — approx. 100–110cm tall
- Size 000 — approx. 110–120cm
- Size 00 — approx. 120–130cm
- Size 0 — approx. 130–140cm
- Size 1 — approx. 140–150cm
- Size 2 — approx. 150–160cm
- Size 3 — approx. 160–170cm
- Size 4 — approx. 170–180cm
- Size 5 — approx. 180–190cm
- Size 6 — approx. 190cm and above
Our karate suits are stocked across this full range, from toddler through to adult.
Always size up when you are between sizes
Three reasons, all of them practical. Cotton gis shrink in the first few washes. Children grow, often mid-season. And a gi that is slightly long can be turned up at the cuff for a term, while one that is too short cannot be fixed at all.
A gi is supposed to look slightly big when new. If it looks like it fits perfectly on day one, it will be too small by the end of term.
How a gi should actually fit
The jacket sleeve should finish somewhere between the wrist and mid-forearm. The trouser leg should finish between the ankle and mid-calf. Both are deliberately short of full length, so they do not interfere with blocks, grips or footwork.
The jacket should cross well over at the front with plenty of overlap and should not gape when the student raises their arms above their head. Overall the cut is loose. A gi that fits like a tracksuit is too tight and will restrict the deep stances karate depends on.
Washing and shrinkage
Wash a new gi cold before the first class. Cotton shrinks, and you want that to happen in a controlled way at home rather than gradually across a term while you wonder why the sleeves keep getting shorter.
Keep washing cold and always hang dry. Never tumble dry a gi — the heat causes a second round of shrinkage that can make it unwearable. Wash after every session; a gi worn twice without washing is unpleasant for the student and for their training partners.
What else a beginner needs
Not much, at first. Most dojos want a gi and a belt and nothing else for the first few months, because beginners are learning basics rather than sparring.
Once kumite starts, you will typically need a gum guard, karate mitts or cotton gloves, shin and instep guards and groin protection. Ask the dojo which style they require before buying, since associations differ on cotton versus foam. Our beginner equipment guide covers what to buy and in what order.
Frequently asked questions
What size karate suit does my 8 year old need?
It depends on their height, not their age. Measure them against a wall: roughly 120-130cm takes size 00, 130-140cm takes size 0, and 140-150cm takes size 1. Two children the same age can easily need sizes two apart.
Should I buy a karate gi bigger so my child can grow into it?
Yes, size up if you are between sizes. Cotton gis shrink in the first few washes, children grow mid-season, and a slightly long gi can be turned up at the cuff. A gi is supposed to look slightly big when new.
How should a karate gi fit?
Loose. The jacket sleeve should finish between the wrist and mid-forearm, the trouser leg between the ankle and mid-calf. The jacket should cross well over at the front without gaping when arms are raised. A gi that fits like a tracksuit is too tight.
Do karate suits shrink in the wash?
Yes, noticeably in the first few washes. Wash the gi cold before the first class so the shrinkage happens in a controlled way, then always wash cold and hang dry. Never tumble dry - the heat causes further shrinkage that can ruin it.
What equipment does a karate beginner need?
Usually just a gi and belt for the first few months. Once sparring starts you will need a gum guard, mitts or cotton gloves, shin and instep guards and groin protection. Ask your dojo which style they require, as associations differ.
Still not sure what to buy?
WhatsApp us with the age, height or sport and we will tell you exactly what you need. Based in Springfield, Durban — delivering nationwide.
Ask on WhatsApp