Buying a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi Guide

What are the most popular Gi brands?

There are many brands that make high-quality gis for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and other martial arts. Some of the most popular brands among practitioners include:

Tatami

Shoyoroll

Fuji

Venum

Hayabusa

Mizuno

Atama

Gameness

These brands are known for their attention to detail, high-quality materials, and comfortable fits. Some brands also offer a range of styles and colors to choose from. When selecting a gi, it is important to consider the quality of the material, the fit, and the price, and to read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the gi’s performance and durability. It is generally worth investing in a higher-quality gi that will last longer and feel more comfortable to wear, especially if you plan on training regularly.

What are the Gi requirements for competitions?

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) competitions, there are specific requirements for the gi that must be followed. These requirements vary depending on the organization and the level of competition. Here are some general guidelines for gi requirements in BJJ competitions:

The gi must be clean and in good repair, with no holes or tears.

The gi must be white, blue, or black.

The gi jacket must be made of a thick, stiff material, such as cotton or canvas, and must have a full set of lapels.

The gi pants must be made of the same material as the jacket and must have a solid drawstring.

The sleeves of the gi jacket must reach the wrist when the arms are extended straight out to the side.

The pant legs must reach the ankle when the practitioner is standing upright.

The gi must be properly fitted and not excessively baggy or oversized.

The gi must be free of any logos or insignia, with the exception of the academy or team patch on the shoulder or upper arm.

It is important to follow these guidelines to ensure that your gi is legal for competition. It is also a good idea to check with the specific organization or tournament to see if they have any additional requirements or restrictions.

How should I maintain my Gi?

Proper maintenance of your gi (also known as a kimono) is important to keep it in good condition and to extend its lifespan. Here are some tips for maintaining your gi:

Wash your gi after every use: Sweat, dirt, and bacteria can build up in your gi over time, so it is important to wash it regularly. Use a mild detergent and cold water to wash your gi, and hang it up to air dry. Avoid using hot water or putting your gi in the dryer, as this can cause shrinkage and damage to the fabric.

Use a mesh laundry bag: When washing your gi, it is a good idea to use a mesh laundry bag to protect it from damage. This will help keep the sleeves and pants from getting tangled and will prevent the drawstring from getting lost.

Fold your gi properly: When storing your gi, it is important to fold it properly to avoid creating creases or wrinkles. Lay the gi out flat and fold the sleeves inwards, then fold the gi in half along the center seam. Finally, fold the gi in half again along the pant legs.

Repair any damage: If your gi develops holes or tears, it is important to repair them as soon as possible to prevent further damage. You can use a patch or a piece of fabric to repair small holes, and you can use a needle and thread to repair tears.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your gi stays in good condition and lasts for a long time.

Will my Gi shrink?

It is possible for a gi to shrink after it is washed and dried, especially if it is made of cotton or another natural fiber. To help prevent shrinkage, it is important to follow these tips:

Wash your gi in cold water: Hot water can cause natural fibers like cotton to shrink, so it is best to wash your gi in cold water.

Avoid putting your gi in the dryer: The heat from the dryer can cause shrinkage, so it is best to hang your gi up to air dry.

Use a low heat setting if you must use the dryer: If you do need to use the dryer to dry your gi, use a low heat setting to minimize shrinkage.

Don’t wring out your gi: Wringing out your gi can cause it to stretch or distort, which can affect the fit. Instead, gently squeeze out any excess water and lay your gi flat to dry.

By following these tips, you can help prevent shrinkage and keep your gi fitting well. It is also a good idea to check the care instructions on your gi, as some brands may have specific recommendations for washing and drying.

Do I need to wear my club’s patch on my Gi?

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), it is common for practitioners to wear the patch of their academy or club on their gi. Wearing the patch of your academy is a way to show loyalty and support for your school and to represent it in competition.

Most BJJ academies and clubs have their own patch designs, and they typically provide the patches to their students to sew onto their gis. The patch is usually placed on the shoulder or upper arm of the gi jacket.

While it is not strictly required to wear the patch of your academy on your gi, it is a common practice in the BJJ community and is generally expected at competitions. It is important to respect the traditions and customs of BJJ and to show support for your academy and fellow students.

Students training BJJ at Ruislip BJJ, based in Hillingdon, patches are available for free. Ask the instructors for yours.

Should I wear a rashguard under my Gi?

Wearing a rashguard under your gi in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a personal preference and is not strictly required. Some practitioners choose to wear a rashguard under their gi for a few reasons:

To help prevent mat burn: A rashguard can provide an extra layer of protection against the rough surface of the mat, which can help prevent mat burn on the skin.

To help keep the gi clean: A rashguard can help absorb sweat and prevent it from soaking into the gi, which can help keep the gi clean and reduce the frequency of washing.

For added comfort: Some practitioners find that a rashguard adds an extra layer of comfort under the gi, especially in hot or humid conditions.

Ultimately, whether or not to wear a rashguard under your gi is a matter of personal preference. It is a good idea to try both with and without a rashguard and see which option you prefer. It is also important to consider the specific rules and regulations of the academy or competition, as some may have specific requirements for undergarments.

What are the various BJJ Gi sizes?

The sizes for gis used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) vary by brand and manufacturer. Most gi brands use a combination of numbers and letters to denote size, with the numbers representing the height of the practitioner and the letters representing the weight. For example, a size A1 gi might fit someone who is 5’5″ to 5’9″ tall and weighs 140 to 170 pounds, while a size A5 gi might fit someone who is 6’1″ to 6’3″ tall and weighs 210 to 250 pounds.

It is important to check the size chart for the specific gi brand you are interested in to get a more accurate idea of what size will fit you best. Some gi brands also offer custom sizes or options for tall or short practitioners. When shopping for a gi, it is also a good idea to try on different sizes and styles to see what fits best and feels most comfortable.