Everything You Need to Know About Taekwondo Uniforms
Whether you’re just starting out in taekwondo or have been practicing for years, understanding the different types of uniforms (also called doboks) can be helpful. In this in-depth guide, I’ll explain the names and purposes of each uniform piece so you’ll know what to expect at classes and competitions.
The Standard Dobok
The basic uniform worn by most taekwondo students is called a dobok. It consists of a top and pants made from a lightweight, breathable fabric like cotton. The top has two pockets on each side where students can keep items like mouthguards.
From my experience teaching taekwondo, the standard dobok top comes in either white or black. Beginners usually start in a white dobok to symbolize their novice rank, then progress to black as they earn belts. The pants are always white regardless of belt level.
Uniform Pieces Explained
- Top: The shirt portion of the dobok. May be white or black depending on rank.
- Pants: The bottoms, which are always white. They have an elastic waistband for comfort.
- Belt: Used to signify rank. Belts range from white to black, with colored belts in between.
- Name Tag: Worn on the right chest with the student’s name written in Hangul, the Korean alphabet.
It’s important that all uniform pieces are kept clean and in good condition out of respect for the martial art. Rips, stains or fraying can result in a student being asked to change before class.
Competition Doboks Have Differences
While the standard dobok suffices for normal classes, competition uniforms – also called hwaldos – have certain specifics to meet tournament guidelines:
- Often made of lightweight, breathable microfiber for mobility.
- Top may be red or blue depending on if a competitor is assigned as red or blue belt during match-ups.
- Belt is wider – usually black only – and secured with velcro for safety.
- Pants are tighter-fitting with ankle-high grips to prevent rides up.
- WT-approved logos are required on the chest, back and sleeves.
Following the strict hwaldo dress code is important to be eligible to compete. But let’s be honest – those super tight pants can be kind of uncomfortable! From my tournament days, I always dreaded the wedgies.
Other Optional Uniform Pieces
While not always necessary, these extra items add usefulness or style to a taekwondo uniform:
- Sweat pants: Loose-fitting pants allow comfortable warmups and stretches.
- Sweat shirt: A matching top provides coverage during cardio rounds.
- Jacket: For layering on colder days both in and out of class.
- Sparring gear: Headgear, gloves, boots and more for contact practice.
- Team doubek: Custom top worn by school teams with unique designs.
While the standard dobok gets the job done, swagging out your uniform with extras basically asserts your taekwondo flex. Not gonna lie, I kinda dig the look!
Caring For Your Uniform Properly
No matter which type of uniform you have, following basic care methods ensures it stays in top condition:
- Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle to prevent shrinkage
- Air dry instead of putting in the dryer
- Use mild detergent and avoid fabric softener which can leave residues
- Inspect for damage after every use and practice and repair promptly
- Store in a breathable bag to allow air circulation between wears
From patching up ripped pants to hand-washing sweaty tops, I’ve dealt with many uniform issues over the years. Proper care is crucial to making uniforms last.
Frequently Asked Dobok Questions
Based on my experience helping new students, here are some other common dobok inquiries:
Q: Can I wear my uniform outside of class?
A: You can wear your uniform with pride, just be respectful. Avoid wearing to establishments that don’t permit athletic wear. Also, change out of sweaty gear ASAP.
Q: What if I grow out of my uniform?
A: Don’t fret, just get properly fitted for your new size. Every martial artist experiences growth – handled with grace, it builds character.
Q: Why are higher belts’ uniforms black instead of white?
A: Black symbolizes a higher rank achieved through discipline, training hard to perfect technique over a long period of time.
Hope this guide has helped explain all things uniform-related! Let me know if any other dobok doubts come up.
Taekwondo Uniform Components
Uniform Part | Material | Function |
---|---|---|
Dobok top | Cotton or blended fabric | Worn on the upper body, has pockets and loops for belt |
Dobok pants | Cotton or blended fabric | Worn on the lower body, loose fitting for mobility |
Belt | Cotton | Indicates rank/level of practitioner, worn around waist |
Socks | Cotton | Worn on feet to reduce slips and provide padding |
Headguard | Foam padding | Worn on head for protection during sparring |
Mouthguard | Foam | Worn in mouth for dental protection during sparring |
FAQ
- What is a taekwondo uniform called? A taekwondo uniform is commonly called a dobok. It includes a top and bottom that are usually white but can sometimes be other colors depending on belt rank.
- Why is the taekwondo uniform white? Traditionally, the white color of the taekwondo dobok symbolizes purity of will and action. It represents a clean slate and inner peace as the practitioner strives for mastery of technique and self-discipline through their training. At the same time, white also makes movements easier for instructors to observe during class.
- What parts make up a taekwondo dobok? The main pieces are a top called a trunk protector and pants called hong/hogu. Some schools also require sparring gear like headgear and pads. Higher level belts may wear doboks with colored stripes on the sides representing their rank. Basically, the dobok is like the uniform that lets everyone know you’re practicing taekwondo together in the dojang.
- When do you wear different belt colors? In taekwondo, as a student advances in rank they will wear belts of different colors correlating to their level of achievement. The most common belt progression goes from white, then yellow, green, blue, red, and finally black belt. However, some schools have additional ranks indicated by stripes on the belt or uniform. It’s kind of like a visual way to see at a glance how experienced each student is.
- Is it okay to customize my taekwondo uniform? Most schools have guidelines about customizing or modifying the official dobok. Some allow small additions like customizing the name tag or belt, but in general the purity of the white color is emphasized. However, these rules may be relaxed a bit for promotional or demonstration purposes. On the other hand, it’s important that the uniform looks professional when representing yourdojang or taekwondo in competitions or events.
- What do I do if my taekwondo uniform gets damaged? If your dobok gets torn, stained or otherwise becomes unwearable, talk to your instructor about possible solutions. They may have spare uniforms available short term, or can suggest local businesses for repairs. Repairing tears right away helps prevent further damage. Nevertheless, accidents happen, so instructors understand that uniforms can only last so long with regular hard training. The school likely has affordable replacement options too.
Don’t forget proper care!
Proper care and storage of your taekwondo uniform helps it last longer. Some tips include washing in cold water on a gentle cycle, air drying instead of using the dryer, and folding or hanging neatly when not in use. It’s also a good idea to bring an extra uniform or spare clothing to class in case of any “accidents!” After all,we’re there to learn and have fun, not stress over a little spilled juice or mud, right?