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Buying a judo gi — or judogi — is one of the first things you’ll do when you start training. Get it right and you’ll have a gi that lasts years. Get it wrong and you’ll be replacing it within a few months or turning up to your first grading in something that doesn’t pass the check. This guide covers everything you need to know to make the right choice in the UK.
What Is a Judo Gi?
A judo gi (formally called a judogi) is the traditional uniform worn for judo training and competition. It consists of a heavy jacket, trousers, and a belt. The jacket is specifically designed to withstand constant gripping and pulling — judo is a throwing art, and your partner will spend most of the session grabbing your lapels, sleeves and collar. That means the fabric needs to be thick enough to handle serious stress without tearing.
A judo gi is not the same as a BJJ gi, a karate gi, or any other martial arts uniform. If you train judo, you need a judogi. Using a karate gi in a judo class is a common beginner mistake — they’re made from much thinner fabric and won’t survive more than a few sessions.
The Key Differences: Single Weave vs Double Weave
Unlike BJJ gis which are almost universally pearl weave, judo gis come in two main construction types:
Single Weave
Single weave judogis are lighter and more affordable. They’re a good entry point for beginners and younger judoka, and they’re comfortable for everyday club training. The trade-off is durability — under heavy training loads, single weave won’t last as long as double weave, and it tends to shrink more after washing.
Double Weave
Double weave is the traditional competition standard for judo. The jacket is made from two layers of cotton woven together, making it significantly heavier and tougher than single weave. It’s much harder for your opponent to get a solid grip, which is why competitive judoka prefer it. The downside is weight — a double weave gi is noticeably heavier to train in, and more expensive to produce.
Our Sento 750 is a 750gsm double weave gi — competition grade, built to last under serious training loads.
Understanding GSM in Judo Gis
GSM (grams per square metre) tells you how heavy the fabric is. In judo gis, the numbers are much higher than in BJJ gis because the fabric is thicker:
- 450gsm — lighter weight, good for beginners and club training. More comfortable, less durable under heavy use
- 550–650gsm — mid-weight, a solid everyday training gi for regular judoka
- 700gsm+ — competition weight. Heavy, tough, grip-resistant. The standard for serious training and competition
Our Shori 450 is our lighter entry-level option at 450gsm, ideal for beginners and younger judoka. The Sento 750 is our premium 750gsm competition gi for those training regularly and competing.
Judo Gi Sizing — How It Works
Judo gi sizing is different to BJJ sizing. Rather than the A0–A4 system used in BJJ, judo gis are sized by height in centimetres. This is because correct sleeve and trouser length is critical for competition — the IJF (International Judo Federation) has strict rules on how long sleeves and trouser legs must be.
Our judo gis are available in the following sizes:
- 160cm (5’2") — suits height approx 155–162cm
- 165cm (5’4") — suits height approx 163–167cm
- 170cm (5’7") — suits height approx 168–172cm
- 175cm (5’9") — suits height approx 173–177cm
- 180cm (5’11") — suits height approx 178–182cm
- 185cm (6’1") — suits height approx 183–187cm
- 190cm (6’3") — suits height approx 188cm+
Choose the size closest to your actual height. Allow for approximately 5% shrinkage after the first wash — wash at 30°C and air dry to keep shrinkage to a minimum. Not sure on size? Email us your height and weight and we’ll recommend the right fit.
White or Blue — Which Colour Do You Need?
Competition judo requires both a white and a blue gi — the two competitors in a match wear different colours to make it easier for referees and judges to distinguish them. If you’re planning to compete, you’ll eventually need both.
For beginners and club training, white is the traditional choice and the most widely accepted at clubs across the UK. Blue is equally valid for club training and opens up your competition options. Both the Sento 750 White and Sento 750 Blue are available to cover both requirements.
Does Your Gi Need to Be IJF Approved?
For high-level competition (national and international events), gis typically need to carry IJF approval. For most club training, gradings, and local and regional competitions in the UK, IJF approval is not required — your gi just needs to meet the fit and construction requirements.
Check with your club or the specific competition you’re entering before purchasing if you’re unsure. For everyday training and grading, the Sento 750 is suitable without requiring IJF certification.
Which Valor Judo Gi Is Right for You?
Beginners and Club Training
The Valor Shori 450 is our entry-level judo gi — lightweight 450gsm cotton, comfortable for everyday training, and an affordable starting point for those new to the sport. A sensible choice while you’re finding your feet on the mat.
Regular Training and Competition
The Valor Sento 750 is our premium competition gi and our best-selling judo product by a significant margin. 750gsm double weave cotton, reinforced stitching throughout, available in white and blue. Built for the demands of serious club training, grading and competition. If you’re training more than once a week, this is the gi to invest in.
How to Care for Your Judo Gi
Judo training is hard on a gi. Constant grip fighting, throws, and groundwork put serious stress on the fabric and stitching. A few simple habits will extend the life of your gi significantly:
- Wash straight after training — never leave a damp gi in your kit bag overnight
- Wash inside out at 30°C to minimise shrinkage and colour fading
- Air dry rather than tumble drying — heat warps lapels and weakens stitching
- Check stitching regularly on stress points — collar, sleeve cuffs and trouser knees take the most wear
Quick Summary
- You need a judogi specifically — a karate or BJJ gi won’t do
- Double weave is the competition standard; single weave suits beginners and younger judoka
- 750gsm is competition weight; 450gsm is a good starting point
- Size by height in centimetres, not by clothing size
- Allow 5% shrinkage after first wash — wash at 30°C and air dry
- For competition you’ll eventually need both white and blue
- The Sento 750 is our top recommendation for anyone training regularly
Browse the full judo gi range or email us at sales@valorfightwear.com if you need advice on sizing or which gi is right for you.