HANDOGI: THE ULTIMATE OLD-STYLE KARATE UNIFORM

The original Handogi training uniform — where tradition meets innovation. Inspired by the spirit of Okinawan karate, reimagined for the modern martial artist. Built to handle the intensity of real training, especially in hot or humid conditions, the Handogi keeps you cool, comfortable, and unrestricted no matter how hard you move.

This set includes the signature short-sleeve jacket and mid-length shorts, designed for full freedom of movement, precise technique, and authentic style. Every stitch is tested for durability and comfort, giving you gear that feels as strong as your training.

Includes:

  • 100% Premium Cotton Jacket (short sleeves) — lightweight, breathable, and designed to let your shoulders and arms move freely.
  • 100% Premium Cotton Shorts (just below the knee) — balances comfort, tradition, and function for modern karate practice.

Train harder. Move freer. Feel the difference of the Handogi — the Ultimate Old-Style Karate Uniform.

Buy Your Handogi Now
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HANDOGI ORDER (PRE-ORDER ONLY - WILL BE READY FOR DISTRIBUTION EARLY DECEMBER 2025 - EARLY BIRD PRICING FINISHES DEC 1ST 2025)

$147.00 AUD
$147.00 AUD $197.00 AUD
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SIZE CHART

Choosing the right size Handogi is key to comfort and performance.

Use our size chart to match your height. If you're between sizes—like 184 cm—always choose the higher option (190 cm) for freedom of movement and comfort.

The Handogi is designed for action, so a little extra room helps it perform even better.

Your gi should move with you—effortlessly.

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HANDOGI HISTORY

It started with a pair of scissors!

Old photos of Okinawan masters like Choki Motobu, Hanashiro Chomo, and Kinjo Hiroshi tell a story most people miss.
Short-sleeved jackets. Mid-length shorts.
Sometimes, no jacket at all.

They trained for movement, for heat, for practicality — not for show.

Somewhere along the way, as karate moved to mainland Japan, the uniform changed. It became heavier, thicker, more formal — better suited to cold dojos than to the tropical humidity of Okinawa… or Australia. 

After years of training and teaching in that same heat, I wanted to return to what those early karateka understood so well — simplicity, comfort, and purpose.

So I began developing a uniform that honoured that original spirit but was refined for today’s practitioner. It took years of testing — countless cuts, fabrics, and prototypes — before I found the premium cotton that felt just right.

That’s how the Handogi (半道着) was born.

The Ultimate Old-Style Training Gi — between Okinawa and Australia, between old and new, between tradition and innovation.

Short sleeves. Mid-length shorts. 100% premium cotton.
A return to karate’s roots — reimagined for the way we train today.

 

FAQ's

What does “Handogi” mean?

Handogi (半道着) comes from three Japanese kanji:

  • 半 (Han) – Short Sleeve
  • 道 着 (Dogi) – Training Uniform

Together, it means “Short Sleeve Training Uniform.”
It represents the idea of balance — where tradition meets innovation. Inspired by Okinawan karate, reimagined for today’s martial artist.

 

What makes the Handogi different from a regular karate gi?

The Handogi features a short-sleeve jacket and mid-length shorts for better freedom of movement, ventilation, and comfort — especially in Australia’s heat.
It’s made from 100% premium cotton, reinforced for durability, and designed for those who train hard and value both function and tradition.

 

Why is it more practical than a traditional gi?

Because it’s built for real training — not tailoring.
You’ll never need to roll up sleeves or hem pants again.
The Handogi fits perfectly straight out of the bag, saving you time and money on tailoring while keeping a clean, sharp look on the mats.


What size is best for me?

We offer sizes from 140–200 (Kids to Adults).
Check our size chart to find your fit.
If you’re between sizes — like 184 cm tall — choose the higher size (190 cm) for the best range of motion and comfort.


Can I choose different sizes for the jacket and shorts?

Yes! You can select different sizes for your jacket and shorts to get your ideal fit.
Many karateka prefer a slightly roomier jacket and more fitted shorts for balance and comfort.


What material is it made from?

Every Handogi is made from 100% cotton, chosen for its breathability, durability, and softness.
It gets more comfortable with each wash while keeping its structure and strength.


What does the Handogi logo mean?

The Handogi logo is inspired by the black and red colours of the old Ryūkyū Kingdom flag, symbolising strength, balance, and heritage.
Red represents life and passion, while black symbolises discipline and tradition.
Together, they reflect what the Handogi stands for — Okinawan roots with a modern edge.


Is it suitable for competition?

While not WKF-approved, the Handogi is perfect for training, demonstrations, and seminars.
Its clean lines, short sleeves, and mid-length shorts make it ideal for movement-focused karate, kobudo, or cross-training.


Do I need to tailor it?

Not at all — the Handogi is designed with a modern, ready-to-train cut.
You’ll save money on tailoring and still look sharp every session.


How do I care for my Handogi?

To keep it in top shape:

  • Wash cold
  • Hang dry (avoid the dryer)
  • Do not bleach

This keeps the cotton strong and the colour crisp.


Where is it made?

Each Handogi is designed in Australia and produced in small batches in Pakistan to maintain quality, consistency, and affordability. 


How does shipping and exchange work?

We ship from Brisbane, Australia.
You’ll receive tracking details after dispatch.
If your Handogi doesn’t fit, just return it unworn within 14 days for a quick size exchange.

Return and Refund Policy

We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return.

To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.

To start a return, you can contact us at handogikarate@gmail.com. Please note that returns will need to be sent to the following address: 5/655 Toohey Road, Salisbury

If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label, as well as instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted.

You can always contact us for any return question at handogikarate@gmail.com.


Damages and issues
Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.


Exceptions / non-returnable items
Certain types of items cannot be returned, like perishable goods (such as food, flowers, or plants), custom products (such as special orders or personalized items), and personal care goods (such as beauty products). We also do not accept returns for hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or gases. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item.

Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items or gift cards.


Exchanges
The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.


European Union 14 day cooling off period
Notwithstanding the above, if the merchandise is being shipped into the European Union, you have the right to cancel or return your order within 14 days, for any reason and without a justification. As above, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.


Refunds
We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method within 10 business days. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.
If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please contact us at handogikarate@gmail.com.