A karategi is the uniform worn for karate. Like a judogi, it follows the general structure of a gi, with a wrap around jacket, trousers and belt, but it is generally cut looser and made from a lighter fabric. This suits karate's emphasis on striking, kicking and fast movement, where a heavy, grip resistant jacket would only add unnecessary weight and restrict speed.
Karategi fabric weight is usually lighter than a judogi's, and the jacket is cut for freedom of movement through kicks and punches rather than resistance to being pulled. Some karategi are made specifically for kata, cut fuller and often in bright colours for visual effect during forms competition, while others are built plainer and lighter for kumite, or sparring. World Karate Federation competition rules set requirements for jacket and trouser length and fit.
Our karate gi guide covers choosing between kata and kumite cuts, and the entry on WKF approved explains competition labelling.
