How many washes does it take to break in a Tokaido gi?

Roughly five to eight cold-water washes contribute meaningfully to softening, but washing alone won't do it. Physical training in the gi is what breaks the fibers in. Think of washing as maintenance, not the primary break-in method.

Can I speed up gi break-in without damaging the fabric?

Wearing the gi during light stretching or home kata practice between formal training sessions adds low-stress flex cycles that accumulate over time. Avoid hot water or mechanical dryers as shortcuts, because you'll trigger shrinkage before the fabric has a chance to relax naturally.

Is the Challenger Judo Gi suitable for karate training?

Technically you can wear it, but the textured weave and thick collar make it cumbersome for clean striking technique. It's engineered for grappling physics, not the rotational snap of punches and kicks.

Do heavyweight gis get lighter after break-in?

They don't lose actual weight, but they feel lighter because the fabric stops resisting your movement. A broken-in heavyweight gi moves with you instead of against you, which changes the perceived burden dramatically.

Should I size up for a Tokaido gi to account for break-in shrinkage?

If you plan to follow proper care instructions, cool wash, air dry, your standard size should be fine. If there's any chance you'll accidentally machine-dry it, ordering a half size up gives you a safety margin that many experienced practitioners recommend.

Mouth Guards

Mouth guards for sparring, training, and competition.

What is a mouth guard?

A mouth guard is a piece of sparring gear designed to protect the teeth, gums, and jaw during contact sports and martial arts training.

What are other names for a mouth guard?

A mouth guard is also called a mouthpiece, gum shield, mouth protector, sports guard, or boxing mouthpiece.

What options are available for mouth guards?

This category includes boil-and-bite and ready-to-wear mouth guards in youth and adult sizes, in single and double designs, and in a range of colors.

How does a mouth guard work?

A mouth guard creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth. When worn during sparring or competition, it absorbs and distributes the force of impacts to the face and jaw, reducing the risk of dental injuries, cut lips, and jaw fractures.

Most mouth guards are made from a pliable material that conforms to the shape of the wearer's teeth, either through a boil-and-bite molding process or through custom fitting.

What benefits does a mouth guard provide?

Shields the teeth from chips and cracks during sparring sessions
Cushions the jaw to help reduce the severity of impacts
Protects the soft tissue of the mouth, including the lips, cheeks, and tongue, from cuts caused by the teeth
Allows athletes to train and compete with greater confidence in contact situations

Updated: July 20, 2026

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Double Gum Shield

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Mouth Guard with case

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