Fighting Films Buying Guide
Affordable Kids’ Judo Kimono: How to Choose Between the 1st Judogi and the Hajime?
Is your child starting judo, and are you looking for an affordable, comfortable children’s judo gi that’s durable enough for their first season? At Fighting Films, we offer two models designed specifically for young judokas: “My First Judo Gi,” also known as the 1st Judogi, and the Hajime children’s judo gi.
These two judogis are designed to meet different needs: the 1st Judogi is ideal for getting started in judo at an affordable price, while the Hajime is more durable and better suited for children who train regularly.
Quick Answer: Which Kimono Should You Choose?
For a child just starting out in judo, the 1st Judogi is the best choice if you’re looking for an affordable children’s judogi to get them started. For a child who will be training all season, who is progressing quickly, or who has already practiced, the Hajime is a better fit thanks to its sturdier fabric and higher weight.
Why look for an affordable children’s judo gi?
When a child starts judo, parents don’t always know if the child will continue throughout the year. So it’s normal to look for an affordable first children’s judo gi, especially at the start of the sports season.
But be careful: just because a kimono is inexpensive doesn’t mean it has to be flimsy. Judo is a grappling sport. Even for beginner children, the judogi is pulled, grabbed, washed regularly, and used on the mat. The best choice, therefore, is to find good value for the money, rather than the lowest possible price.
The two Fighting Films models for children
Comparison: 1st Judogi or Hajime?
| Criterion | 1st Judogi | Hajime |
|---|---|---|
| Price | €21.90 to €23.90 | €33.90 to €36.90 |
| Profile | Beginner Child | Beginner or regular child |
| Usage | First season, introduction to judo | Regular training at the club |
| Weight | 185 g | 320 g/m² |
| Composition | 65% cotton, 35% polyester | 55% cotton, 45% polyester |
| White Belt | Included | Included |
| Fighting Films Tip | The most affordable option to get started | The best choice for long-term use |
The 1st Judogi: The Perfect Kids’ Kimono for Beginners at an Affordable Price
The 1st Judogi Fighting Films is designed for children who are just starting out in judo. It’s the best choice if you’re looking for an affordable, simple, and comfortable children’s judogi for their first training sessions.
The lightweight fabric allows children to move easily and learn how to fall, move around, and master basic techniques without feeling restricted. The pants with an elastic waistband are practical for younger children, as they make it easier to get dressed before class.
This model is particularly well-suited for:
- a child who is trying judo for the first time;
- a first season with the club;
- a young judoka starting around age 4;
- exercising once or twice a week;
- Parents who want good starter gear without spending too much.
The Hajime: the right choice for a child who practices regularly
The Hajime children’s judo gi is the premium line for young judokas. It remains affordable, yet offers greater durability than the 1st Judogi. It’s an excellent choice if your child already enjoys judo, trains regularly, or is progressing quickly.
Its rice-grain fabric feels more like a real training judogi. It is sturdier, more durable, and better suited for repeated grips.
The Hajime is recommended for:
- a child who trains all year round;
- a young judoka who takes several classes a week;
- a child who has already completed one season of judo;
- clubs that want to offer higher-quality judogi for children;
- parents looking for better value and durability.
What size children’s judo gi should I choose?
To choose the size of a children’s judo gi, the easiest way is to use the child’s actual height in centimeters. For example, if your child is about 118 cm tall, it is generally recommended to choose a 120 cm gi.
Don’t choose a kimono that’s much too big. Sleeves that are too long or pants that are too baggy can get in the way during practice.
| Child’s Size | Recommended kimono size |
|---|---|
| Approximately 95 to 105 cm | 100 cm |
| Approximately 105 to 115 cm | 110 cm |
| Approximately 115 to 125 cm | 120 cm |
| Approximately 125 to 135 cm | 130 cm |
| Approximately 135 to 145 cm | 140 cm |
| Approximately 145 to 155 cm | 150 cm |
| Approximately 155 to 165 cm | 160 cm |
Should you choose the cheapest children’s kimono?
Not always. Price is important, especially for a child just starting out, but it shouldn’t be the only factor. A kimono that’s too delicate can lose its shape, wear out quickly, or become uncomfortable after a few washes.
The 1st Judogi is the most affordable option for beginners. The Hajime requires a slightly higher budget, but it will be a better fit if your child practices regularly.
In summary:
- On a tight budget and just getting started? Choose the 1st Judogi.
- Regular use and greater durability: choose the Hajime.
What about judo clubs?
For a judo club, offering two levels of children’s judogi is a great solution. The 1st Judogi provides new members with an affordable option. The Hajime offers a more durable option for children who continue practicing and improving.
This system makes it easier for parents to choose equipment and allows the club to recommend gear that is appropriate for each child’s actual skill level.
Check out our children’s judo kimonos
1st Judogi for beginners on a budget, or Hajime for those looking to advance with a more durable judogi.
FAQ: Affordable Children’s Judo Kimono
Which children’s judo gi should you choose for a beginner?
To get started, the 1st Judogi Fighting Films is ideal. It’s lightweight, comfortable, affordable, and comes with a white belt.
What’s the difference between the 1st Judogi and the Hajime?
The 1st Judogi is the most affordable option for beginners. The Hajime is more durable, made of rice-grain fabric with a higher thread count, and is better suited for regular training.
Is the white belt included?
Yes, both Fighting Films children’s models come with a white belt, which is convenient for starting judo classes right away.
Should I go up a size?
We recommend choosing the size closest to the child’s actual height. If the child is 118 cm tall, a 120 cm kimono will generally be a better fit than a 110 cm one.
Is the Hajime worth the price difference?
Yes, if the child practices regularly. The Hajime is sturdier and more durable than the 1st Judogi. For a casual introduction to the sport, the 1st Judogi is sufficient. For a full season of regular training, the Hajime is an excellent choice.
Conclusion: The best children’s kimono depends on how it will be used
If you’re looking for an affordable children’s judo gi for a child’s first experience with judo, the 1st Judogi Fighting Films is the simplest and most economical choice.
If your child trains regularly, is progressing quickly, or wants a more durable gi, the Hajime Fighting Films gi will be a better long-term choice.
In both cases, your child will receive a Fighting Films judogi designed specifically for judo, complete with a white belt and a cut tailored for young practitioners.
