How difficult is it to choose a kimono? Well it is, or at least if you do not have the necessary information. It is not just a matter of choosing the one you like the most, there are many variants that can be influenced by small details. That is why we recommend that you read this entry carefully before making a purchase, to know what they will find when they have all the models of kimono in front of their faces.
As always happens when he is about to make a purchase of sports equipment, the first question to answer is why; since training, competition, or the climate where the sport takes place is not the same. So, first we give them the instruction to know what they are going to use the kimono for. Once this point has been resolved, an estimated amount of money should be put into your mind that you plan to spend; The model, brand and quality of the kimono will depend on that.
Now we are ready to go into detail and move forward with this selection process. We will start by giving information regarding designs. If they did their homework, then they already know what they need their kimono for.
Training: We will start by calling the training kimono GI. In this case, there are no restrictions on colors, embroidery, patches or prints. They can choose the design that best identifies them, represents them or with which they feel most identified. Some colors have personal meanings, so being a GI just for training, you can feel free to choose the color you prefer.
Competition: IBJJF is the regulator of the sport and it is they who decide the colors to use in official competitions, these are: white, black, blue and royal blue. This information is of utmost importance if you have the desire to compete. We ask you to be careful with the choice of royal blue, as it is often confused with navy blue; color that is not allowed within the competition rules
As for the fabric of the Kimono, these are classified into three materials and models, each with its characteristics:
Single Wave, they are made with less cotton so they are lighter and lighter. The positive thing is that, being lighter, in the competitions where the weighing is done with the Kimono on, it is helpful for those fighters who go with the right weight. In addition, they are ideal for use in places where the weather is hot. The negative, the material is less resistant, therefore, it has less durability and can favor the rival in terms of grips and control positions.
Double Wave, they have more cotton in their construction making them heavier, but durable and resistant at the same time. The positive, in addition to its resistance, is that the flap is harder and that helps making it difficult for the opponent to hold on to strangle or when maintaining a safe position. The negative is that its price is higher.
Then there are Gold Wave, Pearl Wave, they vary in weight, price and brand. And it would be more a matter of personal preference, but none should be a significant factor in performance during combat.
As for the pants, we only have two models:
Cotton Drill; It is a strong and firm cotton fabric. They are fresh and long-lasting, but they tend to increase their weight with sweat.
RipStop; It is the same fabric that military pants and even parachutes are made from. They are light, fresh, resistant and dissipate moisture.
The most used sizes are A0, A1, A2, A3, A4 and A5, covering from 50 kg of weight to 125 kg. There are some brands that produce smaller Kimonos for children. One thing to keep in mind is that cotton tends to shrink with washes. That is why we recommend washing with cold water and drying it outdoors. Depending on the quality of the Kimono it will be the inches that it shrinks.
Finally, we want to leave you some tips to extend your life time. Mainly, always prevent it from staying wet; It is best to hang it inside out in fresh air after using it, and if possible use lycra under the Kimono so that it is this that absorbs sweat. Never leave your kimono in the sun, this will damage the fabric and take away the color.
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