I began my training with a light weight student gi. That lasted for about six weeks. I have a 14oz Juka that I just love. They are kind of expensive (I think they run about 120, I bought it a quite a while ago) but I really think they are worth it. I don't think that I will ever buy anything else. They look really good on and make good pops as you work out. They also keep good and warm as you workout.