How and where to find my first Aikido Dogi

Regarding the Aikido training suit, called dogi (道着) or keikogi (稽古着) or simply gi (着) for short, there are basically these options, I can suggest:

The best one – but it takes a little longer and is a bit more expensive – is the so called Seido Shop in Japan:
The quality is very good and the products are “Made in Japan”. You have to measure yourself to choose the correct size. The instructions and size charts on the website there are very useful. E.g. this model is of proper quality and good for years of training. Please pay attention: the belt has to be ordered separately here.
A quicker possibility is to go to the Fighters World Shop in Vienna (you can also order online, but it is better to go there). The shop is located here.
There you just have to say that you need a training suit for Aikido and they will find the right size for you. The suits shrink a bit the first time they are washed. My advice: Don’t take the cheapest dogi. There is one in the range of about 85 euros including jacket, pants and belt which is of acceptable quality. Please note: There shouldn’t be any prints on it (but they usually know that anyway).
A third dealer, also very well known for high quality budo equipment, is Tozando. They have a wide range of Aikido suits and other budo gear. The only “disadvantage”: some things are meanwhile produced in China.

And you can also check for second hand Judo-/Aikido suits on willhaben.at for example. There you can often find used Gi’s in good condition (it should be white, including a white belt, not to small and without any imprints; Karate suits are not suitable). I advise you to try it on before buying in any case.

Later, if you consider buying a hakama (袴) or wooden weapons set, I’d definitely choose one of the Japanese stores to get the best quality and most authentic gear. Our dojo also offers weapons for beginners/kids that can be acquired for a good price.

If you have any further questions or need any advice, please ask me before buying 🙂