| | Cons | | :--- | :--- | | Price: Excellent value for IJF-approved gear. | Availability: Can be hard to find outside of Europe; limited stock in the US/Asia. | | Durability: Reinforced stitching holds up to intense randori. | Stiffness: Competition models can be very stiff out of the bag; requires washing to break in. | | Fit: Good for taller or broader athletes (European sizing). | Brand Recognition: Lacks the "prestige" of Japanese heritage brands. | | Sizing: Offers a wide range of sizes, including half-sizes. | |