What to Wear to Karate Class | Simply Explained
In this page we will cover what to wear to Karate class on your first day, every other day after that, if you're allowed to wear shoes, and what you should pack.
Table of Contents
- What Should I Wear on my First Day of Karate?
- What to Wear to Class as a Karate Student
- Do You Wear Shoes to Karate?
- What Should I Pack For Karate?
What Should I Wear On My First Day of Karate?
On your first day of Karate you will not have a uniform like everyone else, and that's okay.
You can simply wear an athletic t-shirt, and running shorts with no pockets.
If you've ever accidentally kicked or thrown a hand strike where you become stuck inside the pocket, you'll know it's extremely painful.
Additionally, although you may feel out of place wearing 'Normal clothes' next to everybody else, you'll realize that every single person has had to take their first class.
The instructor and students will all be understanding and will do their best to help you, and make sure that everything is explained at a pace that you can follow.
What to Wear to Class as a Karate Student
As a Karate student you are expected to wear your Karate uniform, also referred to as the Gi.
The Gi must not be wrinkled, stained or full of pet hair (use a lint roller to remove pet hair).
The belt must be tied around the waist and around the top portion of the gi.
Undershirts are allowed under the gi.
Your arm and pant sleeves should not be rolled up in any capacity (Unless the uniform is too large and you were instructed to do so by the instructor).
Do You Wear Shoes to Karate?
Although Karate is normally practiced barefoot on the mats, there are Karate shoes specifically made to practice on the mats that you are able to wear.
If you have sensitive feet, or are healing from some type of cut/wound, the below shoes are a perfect solution.
These are the only types of shoes that are allowed to be worn on the mat, any regular sneakers should be taken off, before entering into the mats barefoot.
What Should I Pack For Karate?
As a Karate student, you will need various items to be prepared for the Karate curriculum that often changes including:
- Uniform
- Belt
- Bags
- Mouthpiece
- Sparring Gear
- Weapons
- Mouth Guard
- Water Bottle