The judo gi is a crucial aspect of the sport, and its evolution has been shaped by various factors. One significant change that transformed the traditional white gi into the modern blue gi is the effort to make judo more spectator-friendly.
In the early days of judo, the gi was made from white cotton or synthetic materials, which were prone to staining and damage during competition. The lack of a color-coded system made it difficult for referees and spectators to identify fighters by their attire.
Efforts to address these issues led to the introduction of the blue gi, which was first used in 1960. The primary reason behind this change was the desire to create a more uniform and identifiable uniform for all fighters.
According to an interview with Morihiro Tanaka, one of judo's most influential figures, the decision to switch from white to blue was made to "make the gi look like a uniform." This move aimed to standardize the attire and create a distinct visual identity for each fighter.
The choice of color is often debated among judo enthusiasts, with some arguing that white is more traditional or symbolic. However, Tanaka explained that blue was chosen because it stood out against the backdrop of other colors and provided a clear visual distinction between fighters.
Today, the blue gi has become an iconic symbol of judo, not only for its functionality but also for its distinctive appearance. The transition from white to blue serves as a testament to the sport's ongoing efforts to evolve and improve spectator experience.
The judo gi is more than just a piece of clothing; it represents tradition, culture, and a sense of community. By examining its evolution from white to blue, we can gain insight into the values and priorities that drive this sport's pursuit of excellence.
Reference: https://blue-judo-gi.nyc3.digitaloceanspaces.com/what-is-the-secret-behind-the-unstoppable-judo-champions-its-done-in-their-blue-gi-discover-why-11.html