Photo: John Cooper
Amid the repercussions from the issue of white and blue gis at major Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, IBJJF director Marcelo Araujo sent in an email to shed light on the issue, putting the changes in simple terms:
“According to the new rules, which will enter into effect in 2012, the IBJJF requires that, in some championships, black belts have two gis with them – one blue and the other white. At first the changes will only apply to divisions to be broadcast on TV or over the internet.
“But, with exception to these competitions, navy blue and black gis will still be permitted.” The regulation change is meant to make things easier on the spectators and referees, mainly because using different colored gis has been proven to tire observers’ eyes out less.
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Ok now I am more confused! If the 2 gi rule is only for black belts what about the other belts? Will they still be able to wear Navy blue or Black gis??
You just answered your own question…
For 2012, IBJJF will accept white, royal blue, navy blue or black kimonos in competitions, except for the occasions when only white or blue will be accepted (the case that was mentioned in the article, for black belts, with tv or internet broadcast)
So, no more Black Gi’s?
What about black gi’s? They should keep them!!!!
does this mean no more black gis??
well its true that white and blue gi’s will tire observers’ eyes out less, and if they are doing that because of that.. then a black vs blue gi wont have much of the same effect.. therefore black gi’s are out, so are navy for the same reasoning.
but then again if youre required to bring 2 gi’s, why would we need to ban black..
This sounds more than just a bit comical,bright white in itself(talk to any optometrist) is one of the most ‘fatiguing’ so called colours for observers.
Its the contrast between the two that leads to focus fatigue, so bright white and blue are up there, as is white and black…
If the interest is ocular health than close shades would be the way forward.
Yeah, what about the blacks???
Allowed. We just edited the article, dear readers. Thanks!
If the reason is to show contrast, then white and black gi’s make more sense then white and blue. Just my opinion I could be wrong
yes but blue gi’s would be more common than black gi’s.
So I still cant wear my yellow gi to Worlds?
I think that competitors should have to carry two gi’s of different color: black, blue or white. Being they all contrast enough to each other. Therefore black gi’s are also a viable option.