Gi sizing assistance

Hey all,

I'm new here - I've been away from Aikido for almost 20 years, and have finally decided to go back!

I've read through all of the threads about purchasing a gi, and I am thinking that I am going to go with HiDriTex from eBogu as it seems to be a good mix of quality and price. I also didn't want to spend too much for my first gi going back.

My confusion comes to size. I know they shrink a bit, and so I'm not sure what to do - I think I may be between a 4 and a 5?

I called eBogu today, and the person on the phone recommended a 5, though there was a language barrier... I wanted to bounce things off of you and get your thoughts.

6-0" / 230lbs
When I buy jeans, they are a 38x32, though 38x31 are better.
In a sport coat or suit I am either a 46 or 48 depending on the cut.

What do you think?

Part of me is thinking that if I do go with a 5, I can always have the legs and arms shortened by a local seamstress, and have it triple or 4x stitched for strength after I wash it few times in hot water to shrink it a bit.

Oh, and for belt size - what is best for a 38" waist?

Thanks for the input! Once I get this figured out, I look forward to getting back to a dojo!

Many thanks!
Bill
Salida, CA (near Modesto, CA)

Size varies depending on manufacturer and material; I would go for a 6, as it will shrink quite a bit unless you only wash it in cold water and hang dry.

Hi

It seems you have more upper body than legs. The good thing is that this will provide you with a low center of gravity which is good for aikido

Also since your weight indicates you are a bit round I would suggest going up a size rather than down. You would be happy about the extra width, and the extra length also come in handy if you have a long upper body. It looks really silly if the lapels under the belt are short.

I am roughly 190 lbs and 182 cm tall. I use a size 5 from Tozando. Fit's perfectly... however NEVER ever wash it warm or tumble dry it. It will shrink in both length and - depending on how it's weaved and sown - width.

I don't know what they will allow for you in your dojo, but I have a few karate gi's that I enjoy during summer. They are cooler, and they fit better around the waist.

But first and foremost: ask your sensei or your club mates. They will be able to help you.
Seek out someone of the same height and girth if possible, and ask what they use.

See you!

Jørgen Jakob

Thanks for the input - I did go with the larger size, and ordered two... I mean, with a 15% off courpon code and free shipping, how could I not?

Looking forward to getting everything together so I can get back on the mat soon!

Many thanks again!
:-)