Proper attire ensures professionalism, safety, and respect in the Kumite arena. Here’s what referees and contestants must wear to compete or officiate:
🧑⚖️ A. Referees & Judges
Referees and judges must wear the official uniform designated by the Referee Council at all tournaments and courses.
👔 Official Uniform Includes:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Blazer | Black (SA official blazer) |
| Shirt | White (long or short sleeved) |
| Tie | Official tournament tie |
| Trousers/Skirts | Plain light grey |
| Socks | Black Socks or Non |
✅ Uniform must be worn at all tournaments and courses.
🥋 B. Contestants
👕 General Appearance
- Contestants must wear clean, white Karate Gi in good condition.
- Style badges may be worn at provincial events.
- At national events, only provincial badges are allowed.
🟥 Belt Colors
- One contestant wears a white belt
- The other wears a red belt
🛡️ Protective Gear Requirements
| Group | Required Protection |
|---|---|
| Males | Groin protection, gum shield |
| Females (9+ yrs) | Soft breast protection |
| Under 18 | Shin & instep protection |
| Up to 17 yrs | Headguard |
🩹 In case of injury, bandages or other protective materials may be allowed at the discretion of the Chief Referee, Chief Arbitrator, and Tournament Doctor. Their decision is final.
🧼 Hygiene & Safety
- Nails must be clean and cut short 💅
- No jewellery or accessories allowed
- Spectacles are prohibited 👓
- Contact lenses may be worn at the contestant’s own risk
🚫 Unauthorized Clothing
- Wearing unauthorized clothing or equipment may result in disqualification.
🕊️ EXPLANATION
I. Religious Items
- Items such as turbans or amulets may be worn only with prior approval from the Referee Council.
- Requests must be submitted before the tournament.
- No exceptions will be made for last-minute requests.
II. Improper Dress
- Contestants who enter the area inappropriately dressed will be given one minute to correct their attire.
- Immediate disqualification will not occur unless the issue is unresolved.