Karate Suit & Belt
All students, except those on a beginners course, are required to wear a karate suit (Gi)
A beginners karate suit comes with a white belt. When buying a beginners suit, please bear in mind the following:
- Buy a cheap / medium priced suit. Karate is not for everyone and you do not want to pay €100+ on a karate suit, only for your child to give up after a few weeks or months.
- Another reason to buy a cheap /medium priced suit is that kids grow quickly.
- Karate suits typically shrink in the wash. You should make allowances for this when you purchase a suit. If you attend a dedicated karate store, they can usually pick out the right size for your child.
A karate suit for beginners typically costs between €15 and €30. Additional belts can be purchased separately when a student passes a grading examination. Belts typically cost between €5 and €15.
Sparring Mitts / Gloves
Mitts for sparring should have an elastic wrist strap. Many mitts come with a velcro strap but these are not suitable for use in our dojo. Sparring is not practiced in every class , but students should always bring their mitts with them. Mitts typically cost around €20-€25.
NOTE: If you find it impossible to locate mitts with an elastic strap, then please check with the instructor if a pair with velcro is acceptable.
Gum Shield / Mouthguard
Gum shields are required for some sparring partner work. From time to time students practice sparring with a partner and it is important that gumshields are worn on these occasions. Gumshields are available in most martial arts stores as well as other contact sports stores that sell GAA or rugby equipment. Many kids find gumshields difficult at first -gumshields that can be moulded to a child’s mouth can help them to adapt. Buy a good quality gumshield – ask in-store for advice on what is the best equipment for your child. Gum shields cost approximately €15 – €30, depending on size required.
Sparring is not practiced in every class , but students should always bring their gumshield with them.
Footwear
All students are expected to train in bare feet, unless they present a valid medical exemption.
Jewellery & Accessories
Students are not allowed to wear any jewellery or accessories in class. Watches, bracelets, necklaces and rings etc. must be removed before class.
Suppliers
We do not endorse any supplier of karate gear & equipment. The following list is a guide to suppliers that have been previously used by students .
Mullen Sports
Corner of Capel Street & Mary Street
North City
Dublin 1
(01) 8726740
Good for beginners karate equipment
Elverys Sports Fonthill
Fonthill Road Industrial Est
Dublin 22
D22 K2V5
(01) 630 4445
Good for beginners karate suit, but does not always have stock
Decathlon Ballymun
St Margaret’s Rd
Ballymun
D11 X2NC
(01) 2530166
Good for beginners karate suit