A judogi is the uniform used specifically for judo. It follows the general jacket, trousers and belt structure of any gi, but is cut and reinforced for judo's constant gripping, pulling and throwing. The jacket is generally heavier and more tightly woven than a karategi, with reinforced stitching at stress points such as the collar and cuffs, since these areas take the most strain during grip fighting.
Competition judogi are typically in the range of 450 to 750 grams per square metre for the jacket fabric, and the International Judo Federation sets rules on sleeve length, jacket length and how loosely or tightly a judogi may be worn, since a jacket that is cut to make gripping difficult is not allowed. Training judogi bought for club use do not need to meet full competition specifications, but choosing a reasonably sturdy weight still pays off once regular randori begins.
Our judogi guide goes through sizing, weave and care in more depth, and the entry on IJF approved explains what that label means for competitors.
