While the study of karate has been practiced for centuries, the modern karate uniform (karategi) is a relatively new creation. The easily recognizable uniform can trace its origins to Master Kigoro Kano, founder of Kodo-kan Judo in the late 1800s. Karategi is an adaptation of the uniform designed by Kano.
The standard karategy is made of a white cotton canvas. The thickness of the material can vary widely, but uniforms made of cotton canvas of at least 10-14 oz are recommended. The heavier material is better suited to rigidity and tension associated with karate training. It is also much more effective at absorbing sweat and helps maintain a cooler body temperature during exercise.
Karate uniforms are made of three clothes; A jacket, pants and belt. The jacket (Uwa-gi) and trousers (Zubon) are designed to be comfortable and baggy to accommodate a high level of movement. The belt (Obi) is used as a range symbol and to help keep the jacket closed.
There are two common types of strategy; Traditional court and tournament court. A traditional karate-cut uniform is designed to reach the ends of the arms and legs. A tournament-cut uniform is designed to expose the forearms and most of the tibia. The tournament cut is made to help reduce the risk of tripping and other disruptive aspects of a traditional court.
The Karate Belt or Obi has many associated myths. Many legends suggest that there is a deep and mysterious philosophy behind the different Obi colors used in the classification system. The truth turns out to be much more convenient.
The color belt classification system was first introduced in the Judo study as a means of grouping students into similar levels of ability. The system was adopted shortly thereafter by tokaido karate gi practitioners. The belts get darker as you walk because each level initially required you to color your belt again, with the resulting color always darker than the previous one.
The karate uniform has become an internationally recognized symbol of martial arts. Like martial arts in general, they are an ideal combination of form and function.