The karate ranking system is divided into two categories: the Kyu (student ranks, from white belt to brown belt, often in descending order from 6th to 1st kyu) and the Dan (expert ranks or black belts, from 1st to 10th dan). This progression symbolizes the practitioner’s development in technical proficiency and spiritual maturity.

To find the right clothing for your skill level, check out our buying guide and essential selection criteria, as well as our general collection of karate-gi.

The length of a belt depends on the practitioner’s body type and height. The general rule is to measure your waist circumference and multiply that measurement to ensure the belt can be wrapped twice completely around the kimono jacket, followed by a flat knot with both ends (the hanging parts) ideally measuring between 20 and 30 cm on each side.

For more information on how to adjust the fit of your garment, please see our page on custom-made kimonos and specific adjustments.

Beginner and intermediate belts are generally made of soft or padded cotton. In contrast, black belts intended for high-ranking practitioners and instructors come in reinforced versions, made of heavy pure cotton, or with high-quality satin finishes (such as the Shihan models), designed to withstand many years of practice.

To discover brands renowned for their high-end accessories, check out our page on luxury kimonos and direct imports from Japan.

Yes, it is very common to have one’s first and last name, the name of one’s karate style, or one’s dan rank embroidered on a belt (especially on a black belt). The embroidery is traditionally done in gold, silver, or white thread, following specific placements at the ends of the obi.

To learn all about branding techniques, read our article on customization and embroidery: Club Logos and Player Names.

There is a popular tradition in martial arts that advises against washing one’s belt in order to preserve the history of its wear and the fruits of one’s labor. However, for obvious reasons of hygiene at the dojo, hand-washing or a gentle rinse in lukewarm water without excessive wringing is recommended for high-quality colored and black belts.

To compare this with karategi care, check out our page on training and club kimonos: Durability and Strength.

The belt knot (the flat knot or sailor’s knot) must be tied so that it sits exactly in the center of the waist, lying flat against the front of the jacket. A properly tied belt ensures that it does not come undone during throws, kata, or ground fighting.

To explore the full range of equipment and training standards, check out our feature, “Everything You Need to Know About Karate Uniforms: Ranges, Target Audiences, and Finishes.”