Taekwondo is undoubtedly
a popular Korean Martial Arts developed between the 40s and 50s after the
Japanese domination of Korea.
It would not be wrong to
suggest that this art of Taekwondo incorporated the Okinawa martial arts since
the pioneers of Taekwondo in Korea drew their skills from Okinawa and some from
China during the Korean Occupation by Japan.
With the art involving
speed in jumping and spinning kicks, a high-quality taekwondo suit is necessary
to accommodate these moves without wearing out easily. Various manufacturers
throughout the world have come up with numerous designs of Taekwondo
uniform, thus making it confusing to pick or recommend the ideal
traditional Taekwondo uniform.
We outline factors one
should keep in mind while choosing Taekwondo uniforms:
Colour:
Most schools will
recommend plain white Dobok for beginner Taekwondo practitioners. However,
uniforms with a black collar are available though often this may be reserved
strictly for Black Belt students only, and unless you attain that rank then it
is forbidden to wear this Dobok (unless your particular school allows this).
Design:
You may choose to have a
traditional v-neck uniform of either colour as long as it never conflicts with
your rank.
Crossover Dobok is also
available depending on what your school endorses or your personal taste for the
designs.
Size:
Quite often, students will
purchase an oversize Dobok (especially parents of growing children!). With
floating legs, one is risking stepping on the oversize material and tripping.
Imagine you were battling for a championship, and this happens – not a great
idea and potentially unsafe!
Brand:
Different brands
manufacture different qualities of Dobok. As much as it is a matter of personal
choice to settle for a particular brand, it is always advisable to consult with
experienced practitioners together with your school. They may have a specific
brand to suggest.
Endorsement from Taekwondo governing bodies:
It
is imperative to purchase a uniform that is accepted by the two bodies governing
Taekwondo worldwide; International Taekwondo-Do Federation (ITF) and World
Taekwondo Do Federation (WTF) – ensure you purchase the correct one for your
club!
These
two bodies have approved a white V-neck Dobok and practitioners with a black
belt putting on a black colored V-neck uniform.
Fabric used to make the
Dobok:
Polyester
is favored in making Taekwondo uniforms as the fabric does not exhibit a lot
of wrinkling after washing and is remarkably forgiving when one forgets to hang
their attire after practice!
