Adidas vs Mizuno IJF Uniform

I have been asked before many times. “What are the differences between the two brand’s IJF gi?” First we will go with the Adidas J930 IJF also known in the U.S.A as the J930 Champion IJF. Unlike previous Adidas models the J930 IJF is a cotton blend 80% Cotton and 20% Polyester. This is for both durability and fit (Shrinkage control). This specification is the same for the J800 IJF. The skirt on the Adidas IJF gi are approximately 1.5 inch longer or 3.8 cm. compare to the regular J930 and J800.

Mizuno introduced two IJF model. The Gold Label Mizuno Yusho Japan and the Black and Green Label of Mizuno Yusho ll. First the similarity, both models are 100% cotton, the cut is the same; and there is where the similarity ends. While the Yusho ll is a preshrunk the Yusho Japan is not. The weave is slightly different between the two also as seen in the pictures Below.
Though the Yusho claims preshrunk it will still shrink a 1/4 to half size depends on how you wash it. Washing in cold water and hang dry is the recommended method for the Yusho Japan to preserve the fit.

  Mizuno Yusho Japan IJF

  Mizuno Yusho ll

Overall both the Adidas and Mizuno have similar cut because of the IJF uniform requirements. Adidas has kept its traditional stiffer heavier weight while Mizuno has stayed with the softer so you can move better direction.

P.S. The Yusho Japan IJF is based on the same design and material of the Mizuno Supreme. The only difference is the Mizuno Yusho has a skirt that is one inch longer than the Mizuno Supreme.

FUJI Sakana Rashguard (Koi Art)

Another true piece of art from classic Japanese symbols, icons, and nature, FUJI’s reputation to create unique, quality products did not stop with this original SAKANA Rashguard.  In Japan and throughout the world, the hugely popular Koi symbolizes one’s will to succeed no matter what the challenge is.  Made from the highest quality fabric and underarm pan­els which will not irritate your underarms, the SAKANA rashguard fit is superbly comfortable. FUJI’s SAKANA can be worn at practice with and without gi. or on the street,  Available at Kodokangear $60.00 each. XS to 3XL.

Pros & Cons of Heavy vs Light Judogi

There are different opinions on a thick heavy weight Double Weave competition Judogi compare to a light weight Double Weave competition Judogi. For example the Mizuno Shiai vs the Mizuno Yusho/Yusho ll IJF certified Judogi. The Shiai is a heavier gi (While not as heavy compares to older models like the Ichiban or Eurocomp or Adidas J930 Champion). The Yusho is a light weight gi, some people have mistaken the Yusho for a single weave. (I will explain the differences between a Single and a Double in another blog).

The thinking goes, “If you can’t grip, you can’t throw”. While that maybe true but it is totally against the spirit of Judo. But I digress. The trouble with a heavier gi is that the person wearing it is not going to be able to move around as well as someone wearing a lighter weight gi. The Japanese team always wear light weight competition gi. There doesn’t seems to be a lack of medals from the Japanese team either.

From my personal experiences, I do tend to have better result when wearing a lighter weight gi. That little extra speed in movement seems to do the trick.

IJF Certified Judo uniform

Kodokangear offers both Adidas and Mizuno IJF certified Judo gi at a discounted price. If you have missed the December Sale, do not feel bad. Discounted prices continues for the month of January 2012. Mizuno Yusho ll starting at $160.00 and Adidas J930 IJF Starting at $161.00.