A Balanced Jiu-Jitsu Gi
To date, the Tatami Estilo 3.0 Premier has been a gi that comes close to the top of my list throughout seven years of training. I am an avid an practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but my no means a gi aficionado or specialist. I’ve never actually owned a Shoyoroll gi or a “designer” gi for that matter and consistently sought “workhorse” gi’s to withstand the rigors of long training. I have since found that the more durable, economically sound kimonos tend to be less aesthetically pleasing than the rest.
Now for my thoughts specifically regarding the Tatami Estilo 3.0. “Balanced” is the first word that comes to mind when I consider this piece of Tatami gear. It seems to rest in right in the middle of the spectrum when it comes to all jiu-jitsu kimonos. It isn’t a thick, iron-clad workhorse gi nor is it a superlight competition gi. It has a desirable standard thickness for everyday training, and while it feels fairly breathable and light it is by no means flimsy. The Estilo is smooth gi, that feels comfortable to wear, but produces enough friction for proper training. In addition, it is a gi that provides for lots of motility. I attribute the movability of the gi to an ergonomic cut, particularly in the gi pants. A generous gusset in the crotch region coupled with the “Shoyoroll-style” elastic rope drawstring has allowed me to play a more dynamic open guard without fear of the dreaded “saggy-pant” sparring session.
[social][/social]Not only does the Tatami Estilo feel like a balanced gi under the pressure of live sparring, its equitable look makes it a very handsome gi. There are a few well-placed red “Tatami” patches that are just eye-catching and sporty enough, while its texture and weave give it enough of a traditional feel. Craftsmanship also makes the Estilo a very good looking gi. No part of the kimono looks slipshod, and one can tell how well the gi is made by examining its fine stitching.
The Tatami Estilo 3.0 has a sleek fit, but it provides good room for movement and enough material to satisfy finicky training partners. I personally wear an A2 gi, and my body type is a little bit on the stocky side. I am 5’8,” weigh approximately 175 pounds, and the gi has fit me very well. I wash the Estilo flipped inside-out, with cold water only and I haven’t noticed much if any shrinkage. I have noticed, however, that the gi seems to lose its pearly white color faster than those of alternate gi brands like Atama or Keiko Raca.
The Tatami Estilo 3.0 is a very comfortable and balanced gi that works excellently as an all-around jiu-jitsu kimono. While not intended solely for competition or heavy training, it is a gi capable of producing a sterling performance all-around. It is a high quality gi with few, if any drawbacks, and a sound investment for any serious Jiu-Jitsu practitioner.
Editor’s note: This gi was given to us by http://www.martialartssupplies.com/ — THANK YOU! Also Check out their BJJ 1 Day Deals at http://www.bjjhq.com/
