Testimonials

Ichiban International

The World Kobukan Federation, when deciding to appoint an official karate suit and belt manufacturer, looked carefully at the best in the world. Considering design, build workmanship, quality, value, service and delivery.
The company that stood at the top was HIROTA JAPAN. One of the many hallmarks of HIROTA is the attention to detail.
ICHIBAN INTERNATIONAL run by Elena Floris and her staff is the ideal conduit to help you acquire the finest Gi & Belts in the world, Elena herself is a practicing Karateka at a high world level, who knows the needs of her fellow karateka and will always be on hand to assist.
Thank you for the hard work you put in on my behalf... regarding the Gi and Obi..both are great.

World Kobukan Federation, President
Ronnie Colwell 9th Dan
The WUKO (World Union of Karate-Do Organizations) World Chief Supervisor of the Tecnical Commission.

"Hirota is an excellent brand. Made to measure Pinack is my choice. Customised fitting allows excellent movement when teaching and training. Light for when travelling!"
Yasuyuki Aragane, 8th Dan Shotokan Karate, Tokyo (Japan)

“The process of obtaining the gi was simple and direct, with helpful and attentive Ichiban International staff, clear instruction given on how to measure and it arriving well within the specified time frame. The gi itself is an excellent fit, with a build quality far superior to other supposed high quality martial arts wear. It has proven itself to be both comfortable and durable during spirited kata and kumite sessions alike.”
KR Darren (London)

“I never wear any other suit again. Ichiban made it so easy to order my personalised suit. The translation is so nice and beautiful. The embroidery is of such refinement. Ichiban deliver on all their promises. Thanks to you all for making it such a nice experience to deal with you.”
Philippe Merlot (France)

“I found Ichiban International to be the perfect company to supply my karate suits. The service was quick and efficient. I found Elena Floris to be very knowledgeable and professional in assisting me in making an informed choice. Passion, skill, integrity are the hallmarks of Elena. As a practitioner of karate Elena is also passionate about the difference karate can make in the lives of people and the ease with which it can be done. She brings this same passion to Ichiban International her karate supplies business. This lady knows her material and stays on the cutting edge of karate products from Japan. What I like the most about Ichiban International under the stewardship of Elena Floris is the integrity with which she operates whether she is teaching karate or looking after customers. If you want first class customer service, fast secure and safe transactions, good communication, then Ichiban International should be your first choice supplier.”
K. Ajose (Saudi Arabia)

“I ordered my embroidered black belt from Ichiban when I gained my 1st Dan. I’d had a very specific idea of what I wanted on my belt when I finally earned it, but I struggled to find a company who were able to do it – most had formulaic options (e.g. association name and Dan number) and were unable to deviate from those. I e-mailed Ichiban to make enquiries and Ms Floris called me back and had a long discussion with me about how to achieve what I wanted. I also wanted the embroidery in an usual colour, but they were extremely accommodating. My belt arrived on time and is absolutely beautiful – everyone I have shown it to has thought so, and my Sensei was especially impressed when he saw it!”
Emma McCarthy (UK)

“Thankyou for processing the order so quickly. I am very pleased with my belt and have worn it with pride. It was admired by a lot of my fellow students."
Senga Cameron (UK)

“I have purchased several karate gis from Ichiban International over the years and have found the service and the experience very professional, quick and excellent value for money. The people are very helpful and easy to work with, ensuring a quality product in very reasonable time. I recommend Ichiban International to support all serious practitioners of Martial Arts."
Michael Rice, Architect and KarateKa www.holistichouseplans.com

Ichiban Karate

“I have had the pleasure of knowing and training with Sensei Floris for over twenty years and I am proud to call her my friend and my teacher. Her abilities and skills, as a dedicated student and a very talented teacher of karate-Do, extend far beyond her exemplary career in the sporting aspects of Karate. In particular, her ability to communicate with clarity, enthusiasm and power is quite inspiring. If you wish for a integral, balanced and enjoyable experience of this ancient art of self discovery, I would recommend Sensei Floris highly.”
Michael Rice (Ireland)

"Ichiban Karate is a great activity to do together as a family. My son and I really enjoy learning karate together on Saturday mornings. It keeps us fit and also has improved our physical confidence. I think it is also beneficial in terms of learning respect and discipline, and in helping you to focus and concentrate."
Pat Hamade, Isleworth (Middlesex)