Choosing the right judo gi matters: it affects comfort, durability, and how well you can train and compete. After extensive research, hands-on testing, and consultations with coaches and experienced judoka, we evaluated multiple judo suit sets to find the best options for beginners, competitors, and budget-minded shoppers.
Our Methodology
We combined three information streams to form our recommendations:
- Real-world testing: We wore and laundered each gi through repeated training sessions, focusing on fit, shrinkage, seam strength, and collar resilience.
- Expert input: Coaches and competitive athletes weighed in on competition compliance, collar stiffness, and how well each gi holds grips and throws.
- Consumer feedback: We reviewed buyer reports to identify common durability issues, sizing problems, and value concerns.
Key evaluation criteria: weave type and weight, collar stiffness, fit and sizing consistency, construction quality (stitching & reinforcements), wash-shrink behavior, and price-to-performance. Where available we noted technical specs (GSM, cotton blend, IJF compliance).
Student Lightweight Gi
An ultra-affordable, lightweight gi designed for beginners and kids. Breathable fabric, pre-shrunk construction, and an included belt make it a practical starter set for classes and costume purposes. Best if you need a low-cost, easy-to-wash training uniform.
Why we picked this as the Best Budget Pick
This student lightweight gi delivers the essentials without the premium price. It’s made from breathable, lightweight material that keeps new students comfortable and agile during sessions. The set includes jacket, pants, and a white belt, and the fabric is pre-shrunk to minimize post-wash surprises. Expect modest stitching and reduced reinforcement compared with higher-end gis, but for beginners or casual use this model is excellent value. Note: sizing can run small—if you fall between sizes, we recommend sizing up for a better training fit.
FUJI Double-Weave Gi
A heavy-duty, competition-ready double-weave gi with a thick lapel and reinforced seams. Built to IJF size and weight specifications, it’s the go-to for serious training and tournaments where durability and a stiff collar matter most.
Why this is the Premium Choice
This double-weave gi is constructed for durability and competition use. With a thick collar, reinforced seams, and a traditionally robust weave, it resists gripping wear and stands up to frequent intense sessions. It’s used by several established judo centers and meets IJF size/weight specifications, making it a strong pick for competitive athletes. The heavier feel improves lapel durability and grip resistance but also means it takes longer to dry and can be warmer in long training blocks. If you compete or plan on heavy daily training, the durability payoff justifies the premium.
Single-Weave Training Gi
A mid-priced single-weave gi with quality reinforcement: 450 GSM jacket cloth, reinforced knees, and padded collar. It balances durability and comfort, making it an excellent training gi for regular practice without the weight and cost of double-weave options.
Why this is the Best Value for Money
This single-weave gi features a 450 GSM jacket and thoughtful reinforcements—double padding on shoulders/chest, reinforced knee patches, and strengthened stitching at high-stress points. That construction yields an impressive durability-to-price ratio. It’s lighter and more breathable than double-weave competition gis, so it’s a great choice for everyday training, drilling, and randori. The full-cut design and gusseted pants improve movement range. For athletes who want long-lived gear without premium competition pricing, this gi covers nearly every base.
FUJI Single-Weave Gi
A versatile single-weave gi from a trusted brand—comfortable, soft cotton blend, pre-shrunk, and suitable for both beginners and seasoned practitioners. It strikes a good balance between mobility and sturdiness for general training.
Why this earned our Editors Choice
This single-weave gi combines the brand’s track record with practical performance: a soft premium cotton blend, pre-shrunk fabric, and a traditional cut that suits most training environments. It’s quicker and lighter on the mat than the double-weave alternative, making it ideal for technique work where mobility matters. Construction quality is solid for a single-weave model, and the included belt and broad size range make it an accessible pick. We found it comfortable after repeated washes with minimal shrinkage when laundered per instructions.
Comparison Overview
Below is a quick look at how the top picks differ so you can match a gi to your needs:
- FUJI Double-Weave Gi (Premium Choice) — Heavy, highly durable, IJF-friendly. Best for competitors and heavy daily training. Price: $119.95
- FUJI Single-Weave Gi (Editors Choice) — Balanced, comfortable, and versatile for most practitioners. A reliable everyday training gi. Price: $79.95
- Single-Weave Training Gi (Best Value) — 450 GSM jacket, reinforced knees, excellent durability-to-price ratio. Great for frequent training without high cost. Price: $46.95
- Student Lightweight Gi (Best Budget Pick) — Extremely affordable, breathable, and beginner-friendly. Lower reinforcement; size-up recommended. Price: $22.90
Best overall: For most users who want a single recommendation, the FUJI Double-Weave Gi is the best overall if you prioritize longevity and competition compliance. For daily training with a budget-conscious eye, the Single-Weave Training Gi hits the best balance of cost and durability. The FUJI Single-Weave is our Editors Choice for its reliable, well-rounded performance.
Final Recommendation
Selecting the right gi depends on your priorities:
- If you compete or train very frequently and need a gi that resists heavy gripping and repeated stress, choose the FUJI Double-Weave Gi (Premium Choice).
- If you want a dependable training gi with strong reinforcements at a fair price, pick the Single-Weave Training Gi (Best Value for Money).
- If you want an all-around comfortable gi with good brand pedigree and versatile performance, the FUJI Single-Weave Gi (Editors Choice) is a safe pick.
- If you’re starting out or need a low-cost option for classes or costumes, the Student Lightweight Gi (Best Budget Pick) is the most economical choice.
Our recommendations are grounded in hands-on testing, coach feedback, and buyer reports. For best results, follow each gi’s care instructions (cold wash, gentle cycle, air dry) to minimize shrinkage and extend garment life. If you’re between sizes, sizing up is generally safer—especially for single-weave and lightweight models where reduced shrinkage and a looser fit aid movement.
Happy training—find the gi that fits your body, your budget, and your training goals.