Warning: There are spoilers ahead for the Cobra Kai series finale.

Cobra Kai has officially ended with season 6, concluding the series with Johnny and Daniel leading their respective dojos, but finally cooperating both as allies and now friends.

While speaking with Netflix, Cobra Kai's co-creator, Jon Hurwitz, explains that Daniel's wardrobe change is not just a stylistic choice, but a representation of his growth. Throughout the series, Daniel has firmly upheld Miyagi-Do’s teachings, positioning him to often clash with Johnny Lawrence’s more aggressive Cobra Kai approach. However, the finale sees both characters embracing each other’s methods. Check out Hurwitz's comments below:

“This was this t victory between Johnny and Daniel: Daniel [has] finally come to the realization that it’s OK not to be Miyagi-Do all the time, that Johnny[’s beliefs] had some value … and Johnny recogniz[es] Daniel’s beliefs were valuable as well. These two people with very different philosophies in life can come together as one and win the day.”

What This Means for Cobra Kai’s Wardrobe Choices

Daniel's Black Gi is Much More Than Just a Fashion Choice

Daniel LaRusso’s decision to wear a black gi reflects his character development in Cobra Kai. From the start, the series has explored the ideological battle between Miyagi-Do’s defensive techniques and Cobra Kai’s more belligerent philosophy. Cobra Kai's narrative has frequently placed Daniel and Johnny at odds. By the finale, Daniel’s wardrobe change signals his departure from strictly adhering to one philosophy, and his ability to now value Johnny's as well.

Furthermore, production choices like Daniel’s wardrobe alteration illustrate how Cobra Kai has remained committed to continuity while allowing its characters to evolve. Costume changes have been used throughout the series to reflect Cobra Kai's character arcs, such as Johnny’s rebranding of Eagle Fang Karate and the fluctuating identity of Cobra Kai under different leadership. By incorporating this visual shift for Daniel, the creators emphasize how much he has changed since The Karate Kid.

Our Take on Daniel's Outfit Change in Cobra Kai

The Black Gi Contributes to the Finale's Message

Daniel’s black gi is a striking representation of how Cobra Kai has developed its main characters while respecting their origins. The series has consistently prioritized the message that growth comes from experience, rather than strict obedience to the past. By having Daniel embrace a new perspective, the finale avoids repeating old behaviors and instead provides a satisfying conclusion to his long-running rivalry with Johnny. Cobra Kai has always thrived on character development, and this wardrobe change exemplifies why the series has remained engaging throughout its 6-season run.

Source: Netflix