Taekwondo Uniforms
Taekwondo, sometimes abbreviated as TKD, is a standup martial art that originated in Korea in the 1940s and 50s. TKD is more linear than many Asian martial arts such as karate or kung fu and focuses on high kicks and fast hand techniques. The name Taekwondo is a combination of "tae" meaning foot, "kwon" meaning fist, and "do" meaning way, or "the way of the foot and fist."
Taekwondo has many traditions that make it unique in addition to its combat techniques. Courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and respect are all important tenets of Taekwondo. Whether you're focused on the artform, sparring, or learning self-defence, you'll learn more than just how to fight in a Taekwondo dojang. Taekwondo uniforms reflect some of these tenets. In addition to being comfortable to train in, Taekwondo uniforms help promote equality within a class. No matter who you are outside of the dojang, you all wear the same Taekwondo uniform in it.
Choosing the Right Taekwondo Dobok
Taekwondo uniforms are also known as dobok. A dobok is made up of a Taekwondo jacket, trousers, and a belt that denotes rank. Dobok are similar to karate gi though their sleeves tend to be a little wider and longer. Dobok are also lighter weight than most other martial arts uniforms as Taekwondo focuses more on kicks and hand strikes and has very little grappling. Dobok do, however, come in different weights with most new practitioners favouring lighter uniforms. Light weight doboks tend to breathe better while heavier dobok are more sturdy and last longer. Heavier dobok also make a more pronounced snap when techniques are executed well.
When picking out a Taekwondo uniform look for quality materials and reinforced stitching. Sizes for Taekwondo uniforms are usually listed by height and weight. If you don't fall neatly into a size it's better to pick a dobok for the right weight and have the length adjusted. White is the most common colour for Taekwondo uniforms and is suggested for beginners. Other colours of dobok are often reserved for more advanced students or demo teams. The most common variation on the white Taekwondo uniform is white with black trim which is usually reserved for black belts and instructors. Demo team Taekwondo uniforms come in colours such as red, blue, black, and yellow.
International Taekwondo Federation Uniforms vs World Taekwondo Uniforms
Taekwondo uniforms are made of cotton, polyester, or a blend. This makes them durable, breathable and helps wick away moisture. Most Taekwondo trousers have an elastic waistband and some feature drawstrings. Taekwondo trousers should come down to your ankle bone. This helps keep them out of the way when performing kicks. Taekwondo jackets come in two main styles, pull over V-necks and cross over jackets. Which style you pick depends on your preferences and whether your school is part of the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF) or World Taekwondo (WT).
Pullover V-neck jackets are what most people think of when they hear Taekwondo uniform. With this style of dobok, you don't have to worry about the front of the jacket opening up while you're kicking and punching. The closed front also makes it easier to wear a chest protector. Cross over style Taekwondo jackets are more traditional, though they have a more vertical closure than the original doboks. Generally, ITF Taekwondo uniforms tend to include the pullover style, while WT Taekwondo uniforms usually include the cross over style. If you're not sure what style of dobok to get check with your Taekwondo school.
High-Quality Taekwondo Uniforms
At Made4Fighters we want to help you have the best experience training, whether you're new to Taekwondo or a veteran. We carry a variety of dobok in different styles, colours, and weights from top brand such as Bytomic, Mooto, and Top Ten. Or check out our martial arts belts to complete your Taekwondo uniform.
Looking for martial arts uniforms for another discipline? We also carry Brazillian Jiu Jitsu Gi, Karate Gi, Kung Fu Uniforms, and Kickboxing Uniforms.
