Fenom Kimonos, a dedicated women’s BJJ gi producer, has expanded their range to include a lighter weight white gi called Lotus to complement their Classic black kimono reviewed here. The Lotus is a beautiful new gi with an impeccably soft weave and subtle feminine styling; a great addition to any BJJ woman’s wardrobe.
Fenom Features
The Lotus gi is distinguished by its styling. Fenom’s gothic ‘F’ brand is embroidered in black on the sleeves and at the bottom of the right trouser leg, while a black lotus-flower patch is stitched at the bottom left of the jacket and at the top of the left trouser leg.
The Lotus is a lighter weight gi and weighs in at 1.5kgs on my scale (the Classic weighs in at 1.8kgs). While the Lotus jacket, a single piece crystal weave, has a normal weight, the trousers are a lighter weight canvas with reinforced areas around the knees and shins.
Fenom Fit
While the Fenom Classic gi jacket has a shorter skirt, the Lotus has a more conventional length and extends over the hips. The trousers include a more generously proportioned back panel than many gi designed for men, and the A1 measures 22cm from waistband to the top of the gusset. This can provide a more comfortable and pleasing fit that accounts for women’s hip to waist ratios better than gi aimed at male proportions.
Fenom Size
Fenom’s gi are not pre-shrunk. After a 60 degree wash, the Lotus lost a centimeter in the jacket and 2 in the length of the trousers.The Lotus is generously proportioned and remains a great fit after this minimal shrinking. Moreover, the cut of the gi is adaptable and the A1, as modeled below, works for women along its size spectrum (Charlotte is 153cm and 40kgs while I’m 163cm and 60kgs).
| Measurements | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| collar to cuff | 67.5cm | 66.5cm |
| shoulder to skirt bottom | 74cm | 73cm |
| waist to leg bottom | 89.5cm | 87cm |
Conclusions
The Lotus is a beautiful looking, soft feeling, well thought out gi. Fenom continues to excel in creating products cut and styled for a feminine consumer. If you’re in the market for lighter weight gi to weather your summer training or to keep you in your weight category, at the bargain price of $75, the Lotus is a real steal!
Addendum
As of 2011, the Lotus ships with riptsop trousers which are reviewed here. Ripstop trousers are also available to purchase separately for $25USD + shipping.
Disclaimer
All reviews are based on my independent observations. I have no formal qualifications, I am not sponsored by any company and I do not endorse any one brand. If you chose a gi based on my review, please let the manufacturer know that MegJitsu persuaded you. This will not benefit me financially, but can help me to get more gi to review. As always, thanks for reading.