Very few objects associated with karate training are as iconic to the sport as the distinctive gi. This loose-fitting training uniform allows for easy movement while simultaneously lending classes an air of formality and respect. One frustrating aspect of karate gis is that, although they do follow a consistent sizing system, the system is different from those used by any other type of clothing.
History
Traditionally, martial arts students practiced in their work clothing -- loose-fitting pants and jacket tied with a rope. When Dr. Jigoro Kano formalized judo in the late 19th century, part of the process included identifying an official training uniform. This uniform was based on the traditional clothing, with some adjustments made to reflect the realities of martial arts training. When Gichin Funakoshi became the first to organize karate in a similar manner, he adopted the same conventions.
Measurements
Standard karate gis don't take arm or leg length into account. Instead, you need only two measurements: body height and weight. Once you have those measurements, you'll find the gi with a size range that suits your body best. If your weight and height fall into different size categories, go with weight. You can always hem long sleeves, but you won't be able to let out the shoulders or gut.
Child Sizes
Karate gi sizes 000 through 2 fit most children. Size 000 is for heights between 3 feet and 3 feet 5 inches with weights between 20 and 40 pounds. Size 00 fits heights of 3 feet 5 inches to 3 feet 10 inches and weights of 40 to 55 pounds. Children between 3 feet 10 inches and 4 feet 3 inches tall weighing 55 to 70 pounds will fit a size 0. Size 1 is appropriate for 4 feet 3 inches to 4 feet 8 inches with weights of 70 to 90 pounds. A size 2 gi fits those between 4 feet 8 inches and 5 feet 1 inch weighing 90 to 110 pounds.
Youth and Small Adults
Karate gis size 3 and 4 are appropriate for youth, small men and small to medium women. A size 3 gi fits heights of 5 feet 1 inch to 5 feet 6 inches and weights of 110 to 140 pounds. Size 4 fits 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 11 inches and weights between 140 and 170 pounds.
Adult Sizes
Gi sizes up through 8 fit larger adults. Size 5 is for most average athletic males, at heights of 5 feet 11 inches through 6 feet 2 inches and weights of 170 to 200 pounds. Size 6 fits adults between 6 feet 2 inches and 6 feet 5 inches with weights of 200 to 230 pounds. A size 7 gi is for adults 6 feet 5 inches through 6 feet 8 inches tall who weigh between 230 and 260. The largest gi in mass production is size 8, for adults between 6 feet 8 inches and 6 feet 11 inches tall, weighing from 260 to 290 pounds.
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