Uniforms – Etiquette and Inside vs Outside

I realized my note the other day may not have been clear about “summer” uniforms.  Here’s the guidance:

• When we are INSIDE we are in FULL uniform; dobok top; pants and belt.
  • If you wear a t-shirt under your top it should be a plain t-shirt that is either white, gray or matches your belt color.
  • This t-shirt must be tucked in.
• When we are OUTSIDE we can be in “summer’ uniforms.  A plain t-shirt that is either white, gray or matches your belt color, uniform pants and belt and athletic shoes.

A few additional etiquette notes on uniforms:

• You must be fully dressed BEFORE stepping on the mats.  This includes making sure your belt is on.
  • If you have stripes on your belt, they go on the left side of your body.
  • Belts should not be dropped on the floor while fixing your uniform. You earned your rank, treat it with respect.
• When straightening your dobok or tying your belt, you should turn your back to the instructor on the floor as well as the flags.  The same is true if you’re in the lobby putting your belt on, you don’t do it facing the floor.
• After class, do not remove your dobok top or belt on the mats, wait until you’ve bowed out.

Our uniforms are not meant to be worn in public; they are only to be worn in class or at a demo.  They should not be worn in the stores or out to dinner.  Please try to plan accordingly.  If you’re going directly from home to class and back, you may wear your uniform in those travels. Uniforms should be clean and neat; please make sure they are laundered regularly and neat in appearance.

Our doboks are a nod to our military roots and should be managed accordingly.  When was the last time you saw a service person in a rumpled, dirty uniform? Imagine that service person putting their uniform on in front of a General – neither would ever happen.  Managing our appearance is a form of discipline and part of our martial arts practice.