Karate / Taekwondo: uniforms and protective gear

Karate and Taekwondo

Karate, which originated in Okinawa before developing in Japan, focuses on precise punches and kicks, blocks, and kata, which are set sequences. It made its debut at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Taekwondo, a Korean martial art, is known for its spectacular jumping and spinning kicks; it has been an Olympic sport since the Sydney Games in 2000. Both disciplines are practiced in white uniforms: the karategi for karate, and the dobok, often with a V-neck, for taekwondo.

The Selection

Karate and taekwondo are organized by type:

• Karategi.
• Protective gear, foot protectors, helmets, and body protectors.
• Gloves.
• Belts.
• Accessories.

Combat sports also include boxing, judo and jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and MMA.

Approved Protective Gear

In karate competitions, the world federation WKF mandates approved protective gear: mitts, foot protectors and shin guards, groin protectors, and for women, chest protection, such as those from adidas. In taekwondo, the World Taekwondo federation approves helmets, body protectors, shin guards, and foot protectors, like those from Kwon. Removable foot and shin protectors adidas can be used for both training purposes.

Kata or Sparring

For kata, a thick, rigid karategi is chosen, such as the Kwon Kata or the adidas Shori, which makes a sound with each movement. For kumite, the sparring, a lightweight karategi, like the adidas Adizero, allows for more freedom. Children start with a lightweight and adjustable kimono. Taekwondo shoes, like the adidas Adi Kick, with thin soles, are meant for training on hard surfaces. Size is chosen according to height in centimeters.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between karategi and dobok?

The karategi is the outfit for karate, featuring a crossover jacket fastened by the belt. The dobok for taekwondo, which is lighter, usually has a V-neck jacket that goes over the head, with a black collar for black belts.

Kata or kumite karategi: which one to choose?

The kata karategi, made of thick cotton, is rigid and snaps with each technique. The kumite one, being lighter and more flexible, allows for greater freedom for quick movements in sparring.

What protective gear is needed for taekwondo sparring?

The fighter wears a body protector, helmet, shin and forearm protectors, a groin protector, and a mouthguard. In competitions, this gear must be approved by the federation.

How to choose the size of your karategi?

Karategi sizes correspond to the practitioner's height in centimeters. Since cotton can shrink after the first wash, it's often advisable to choose one size up for a thick cotton jacket.

Do you need shoes to practice taekwondo?

Training is generally done barefoot on the mat, but lightweight taekwondo shoes are useful on hard surfaces or for sensitive feet. Their thin sole helps maintain contact and facilitates pivots.