Karate Equipment

At UniGear, we specialise in karate equipment and always have an extensive range in stock in our midland warehouse. These can be supplied direct to students or through clubs via the instructor, via our web site, www.unigear.co.uk, or by calling and ordering from our catalogue.

Karate is an oriental martial art which first became poplar in this country in the 1970s and in those early days the sport enjoyed an almost fanatical following. Today it is still a very popular participant sport, particularly amongst children, with clubs all over the county.

A fundamental piece of karate equipment is the karate suits. These are generally manufactured from cotton and consist of trousers and a wrap around jacket which is fastened by a coloured belt. They are produced in different weights to reflect the student's age and ability; beginners may well start n a 6 or 7oz suit which is light and flexible. Experienced practitioners however would prefer a 16oz or even heavier, as this is what would be required to withstand the rigours of competition the quality of one's karate equipment is very important. In karate, proficiency is indicated by the colour of the belt worn from white for beginners through to black for the most skilled. Several lengths are available and karate suits are available in several colours and sizes. When new, karate suits are generally stiff and inflexible and it is highly recommended that they are washed before use.

Some practitioners prefer to wear light cotton trousers rather than the traditional suit.

Other essential items of karate equipment are boots and mitts. Boots are made from vinyl or leather and open at the bottom and fastened with a wrap around elastic strap. These are designed only to protect the feet, but also the recipient of kicks. They are worn over bare feet and are available in several sizes and colours. Karate mitts are manufactured from an elasticated fabric with thick padding on the front part of the hand. Again, these are designed to give protection to both the wearer and his opponent.

It is also advisable to use other items of karate equipment ie body protection, such as shin or shin and instep pads, groin guards and head guards - gum shields are also a must.