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Sizing Up The Bjj Kimono

The BJJ kimono is to a modern practitioner of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu what a fine suite of armor once was to an ancient warrior. Just as finely crafted of high quality materials, it is presented by an industry of professionals dedicated to supporting the athletes of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Early Japanese people, of both genders, wore two piece clothing consisting of short pants and a jacket like top. Eventually, through time and a few innovations, the modern judogi was derived from this early simple clothing. Today's sophisticated, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gi is a modern adaptation of earlier martial arts uniforms.

While a keiko-gi is similar in appearance to any martial arts uniform to the uninformed eye, there can be some significant differences. Keiko, which means practice, and gi, which means simply clothing, can mean any type of uniform used for any type of sport or discipline which is practiced regularly. In Japan, gi is a word not found used alone, but in partnership with other words. Hence, judo-gi is a garment used for practicing judo and karate-gi is of course a garment used for practicing karate. BJJ-gi is a term for a garment which has been specifically designed for use in practicing and competing in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

The modern martial arts uniform has evolved and undergone many changes. Reinforced underarms and rubberized collars are modern introductions. In addition, seams are reinforced, some pants have reinforcements below the knees, and the seamless back while more comfortable also adds to durability.

Quality gis are made from cotton which has been pre-shrunk. This is an important feature because cotton has a tendency to shrink up dramatically. Woven into a ripstop, sturdy canvas like fabric, the fabric is available in four "weights" of cloth. These are known as single weave, double weave, gold weave and platinum weave. However, these weaves are not standardised. Gold weave is not a different type of weave from the single and double weaves so much as a reflection of the quality of the fibre used in it.

Single weave fabric is often recommended for beginning students. It's an economic choice, light weight and is easily cared for. Once it becomes clear the student is ready to make a solid commitment to the sport and takes on additional practice sessions, an investment in the heavier weight double weave may well be in order. Double weave fabric makes for a heavier, sturdier garment.

Gold weave is not so much a distinctive weave as a reference to the type of long stapled cotton fiber used in its construction. Platinum weave is known as its lighter weight version. The higher quality cotton gives the fabric a lustre and comfort usually missing in the other weaves. Yet its durability is comparable to that of double weave. Instructors and competitors often invest in this grade of fabric for their gis.

While BJJ kimonos can come in a variety of colors, competition rules allow for blue, black and white. Jacket colors must match the pants and of course the belt must be the appropriate rank color. For demonstrations in-house and practice sessions, some clubs have established their own colors which they may encourage their members to use.

By: Mario Cora12

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