Heavyweight Karate Gi – 14oz Canvas

Description

If you train seriously — long sessions, multiple days a week — your gi needs to keep up. The 14oz heavyweight karate gi has been a favourite with instructors and club regulars for good reason: it’s tough, holds its shape, and gets more comfortable the more you wear it. At $110, it sits at a practical sweet spot between the entry-level uniforms and the heavier competition-grade canvas.

Why 14oz canvas?

Canvas gis feel completely different from the lightweight poly-cotton uniforms you’ll find in most beginner kits. The fabric has real weight and substance — when you grab the lapel or the sleeve, it doesn’t stretch and deform the way a lighter gi does. That matters for kata, for partner work, and for the kind of drilling where you’re grabbing each other repeatedly.

The 14oz weight is the middle ground in canvas. It’s substantial enough to handle serious training without being as stiff and heavy as the 16oz or 18oz options. If you’re coming from a lightweight gi and training karate, taekwondo, or jiu-jitsu, 14oz is where most people land when they want a proper canvas uniform without it feeling like armour.

One thing to know: canvas gis are stiff when new. Don’t let that put you off. After a handful of washes and training sessions, the fabric softens noticeably. Most people find it hits a comfortable sweet spot around the third or fourth wash.

Construction details that matter

The jacket is cut generously through the shoulders and chest. This isn’t just about comfort — it means you can chamber a punch or execute a full shoulder rotation without the seams pulling tight. A gi that restricts your shoulders will subtly affect your technique every time you train in it.

The pants have a full gusset. If you’re doing high kicks, deep stances, or ground work, you’ll understand why this is important. A gusset gives you the room to move without putting strain on the inner seams — which is exactly where cheaper gis fail first. Combined with an elasticated waistband and an internal drawstring, the pants are easy to fit and stay put during training.

Heavy-duty double stitching runs through all the stress points. Canvas uniforms take a beating, and the stitching is what determines how long they last. This gi is built to outlast the lightweight alternatives by a significant margin.

What arts is this gi suited to?

This gi works well for karate and taekwondo training — the weight gives it a traditional feel that suits both arts.

This is a WKF approved gi, but if you’re preparing for a tournament with specific uniform regulations, check the rules carefully for any changes. Whether for competition or regular dojo training, this gi is exactly what it needs to be.

Sizing guide

Sizes run from 3/160 through to 7/200. The number represents the size, and the height figure (in centimetres) gives you a practical starting point. Use the size chart images on this page as your guide.

A few sizing notes from experience:

• This gi is pre-shrunk. However, canvas gis do shrink slightly with washing — particularly in the first few washes. If you’re between sizes, go up.
• The drawstring pants give you flexibility at the waist, but the jacket fit is fixed. Prioritise getting the jacket right.
• If your build is heavier through the shoulders or chest, size up — the jacket is cut generously but a larger frame benefits from the next size.
• Not sure? Contact us before ordering and we’ll help you work it out.

Care instructions

Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle. Wash with similar colours — even white canvas can bleed slightly on the first wash or two. Hang to air dry; avoid the dryer where possible, as heat accelerates shrinkage and breaks down the fabric faster than air drying does. Take it out while still slightly damp and give it a good shake to keep the fabric smooth.

Don’t leave it rolled up wet in a bag after training. Canvas holds moisture and will develop mildew smell if left damp for too long.

What’s not included

This gi includes the jacket and pants only. No belt is included. If you need a belt, contact us when you place your order and we can include it in the same package. We stock belts in all standard colours and grades.

Specifications

• Weight: 14oz (heavyweight) cotton canvas
• Material: 100% cotton canvas
• Colour: White
• Includes: Jacket and pants (belt sold separately)
• Sizes: 3/160, 4/170, 5/180, 6/190, 7/200
• Stitching: Heavy-duty double stitching at stress points
• Pants: Full gusset, elasticated waistband, internal drawstring
• Jacket: Generous cut through shoulders and chest
• SKU: 14OZCGI
• Price: AUD $110.00 (same for all sizes)
• Shipping: Free Australia-wide on orders over AUD $150

Summary

• 14oz heavyweight canvas — durable, traditional feel
• Softens with wear and washing
• Generous jacket cut for full shoulder range of motion
• Full gusset pants for high kicks and deep stances
• Elasticated waist with internal drawstring
• Heavy-duty double stitching at stress points
• Suitable for karate, taekwondo, and jiu-jitsu
• Belt sold separately — contact us to add one to your order
• Machine washable, air dry recommended

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a belt included with this gi?

No. Canvas uniforms are sold as jacket and pants only. If you need a belt, let us know when you order and we can include one in the same bag at no extra shipping cost.

Will this gi shrink in the wash?

Canvas gis do shrink slightly, especially in the first few washes. Wash cold and air dry to minimise shrinkage. If you’re between sizes, we recommend sizing up.

How stiff is this gi when new?

Canvas gis are quite stiff out of the bag — that’s normal. After two or three washes and a few training sessions the fabric softens considerably. Most people find it reaches a comfortable feel within the first month of regular use.

Can I use this gi for BJJ?

Yes, with some caution. The 14oz canvas handles the heavy nature of BJJ drilling and rolling well. It’s not an IBJJF-approved competition gi, but for dojo training it holds up to most demands, though it is not made grappling.

What’s the difference between this and the 16oz or 18oz canvas gi?

The 14oz is the lighter of the canvas options — more flexible and a bit easier to move in, while still having that substantial canvas feel. The 16oz and 18oz are heavier and stiffer, preferred by some instructors for their extra durability and heft. If you’re new to canvas gis, 14oz is a good starting point.

Is this gi suitable for competition?

Yes, this is a WKF approved gi. Tournament requirements vary between bodies — some have strict weight and construction rules. Check your specific competition’s uniform regulations before purchasing for that purpose.