Ever feel like your gear is holding you back on the mats? You’re rolling hard, focused on your technique, but your rashguard is itching, or your gi pants feel too loose. It’s frustrating when your apparel becomes a distraction instead of an asset in your Jiu Jitsu journey.
Choosing the right Jiu Jitsu apparel matters more than you might think. The wrong gear can cause discomfort, restrict movement, and even affect your performance. From the perfect fit of your gi to the right material for your no-gi gear, the options can feel overwhelming. You want comfort, durability, and gear that looks good too!
Don’t let ill-fitting or low-quality apparel slow down your progress. In this post, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about Jiu Jitsu apparel. We’ll explore what makes a gi great, the best rashguards for intense training, and how to choose shorts that stay put. Get ready to upgrade your training experience.
Top Jiu Jitsu Apparel Recommendations
- Ultra Rash Guard: 80% Nylon, 20% Spandex blend delivers better anti-friction feature - supports rolling/gripping, cuts friction during dynamic moves, prevents mat rash and friction burns, enhancing your BJJ performance
- High Compression: 4-way stretch fabric offers firm muscle support, precise movement control, enhanced blood flow, and faster recovery (If you prefer a lighter fit or don’t train professionally, consider sizing up for comfort)
- Moisture Wicking Mesh: Adopt breathable mesh material under the arms to promote two-way airflow and enhance moisture wicking ability, improving ventilation and comfort during exercise, so you always stay fresh and comfortable
- ⚠️ MUST FOLLOW OUR ADVANCE SIZING: Our sizing is superior to any other brand out there. We do not believe in 1 size fits all when it comes to Bjj gis. PLEASE SEE OUR SIZING CHART.
- ✅ NO SHRINKING- MACHINE WASH IS OK- Lets be realistic most Gi brands want you to hand wash and then hang to dry in order to avoid shrinkage – Elite Sports Jiu-Jitsu GI is made from pre-shrunk fabric you’ll never have to worry about your lightweight BJJ GIs shrinking. Just wash this lightweight BJJ GI for men in cold water and use dryer. 🥋📏 Fit Tip: Each brand has its own sizing guide. Please check our Sizing Guide before ordering an Elite BJJ Gi.
- ✅ IBJJF APPROVED – This IBJJF GI is approved from International BJJ Federation, so you can wear our BJJ Jiu-Jitsu GI in competitions and tournaments held by IBJJF. Various sizes and colors are available for both men and women from ages 18 to 55 years. This Jiu Jitsu GI has a stylish and elegant design.
- Jiu Jitsu Apparel design.
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
- CONSTRUCTION FABRIC – Elite Sports BJJ rash guards are made of 85% polyester and 15% spandex making it best BJJ full sleeve rash guards with highest level of comfort. Our BJJ compression rash guard for men has non-chaffing and 4-way stretch features.
- MULTIPURPOSE – Elite Sports full sleeve Jiu Jitsu rash guards are perfect for MMA, BJJ, Jiu-Jitsu, No-GI, Boxing, Kickboxing, and more martial art forms. This best MMA BJJ compression rash guard will be enough for all your training and as a base layer.
- DURABLE & COMFORTABLE – Our flatlock stitched BJJ ranked rash guards are cheap yet durable. Fully sublimated graphics won’t crack, fade, peel, or irritate, giving comfort. Anti-slip bands at the waist of our No-GI rash guards prevent it from riding up.
- Michigan Artists & Printers - this design was drawn and printed with pride by our skilled illustrators and printers in Ann Arbor. If you're ever in the area, stop by for a free tour and see how we make your apparel!
- UNISEX Modern Fit Sizing - this shirt is slightly tapered to be a little less boxy than the old style of mass-market t-shirt. Nothing drastic, and most people wear the same size in our shirts as they do in all of their others, but you might go one size larger if you're on the fence. It is pre-shrunk, but like any high-cotton product, will still shrink slightly in the wash. Our model photos are the real thing - the actual shirt on our salesguy, Rich. He's 6' 2", 200 lbs and wearing a large
- Soft Fabrics - This shirt is a ringspun, 30/1 fine jersey knit on USA-grown cotton (and up to 50% polyester for two-tone blend, depending on the color). This means they are soft and smooth with a high thread-count, tight knit made out of fuzzy plants grown by American farmers. These are mid-weight shirts - a bit lighter than your mass-market, thick gym class t-shirts, but substantial / not see-through. It's a nice balance between comfort and durability
- Jiu-jitsu gift: This sock set is the perfect choice for gifting jiu-jitsu enthusiasts, especially suitable as a birthday gift, Christmas gift, Valentine's Day gift, or Father's Day gift. Whether for sons, grandsons, nephews, dads, husbands, boyfriends, brothers, or friends, it is not just a practical gift but also an expression of love for jiu-jitsu. It allows the recipient to feel the joy and passion that this sport brings.
- Fun pattern design: Featuring a variety of jiu-jitsu elements such as training uniforms, belts, trophies, safety gestures, and shoulder throw moves, these socks capture the essence of the sport while adding a playful touch. This vibrant design brings energy and personality to each wear, making them perfect for both training sessions and casual outings, elevating your athletic style effortlessly.
- Size: This men's cotton sock set includes 3 pairs and is available in US sizes 7-13, making it perfect for adult men and teenagers.
- 【UPF 50+】UV protection fabric helps you fight against sunburn; to create barrier above the skin
- 【Multi-Use】Suitable for most outdoor/indoor activities, good to use for water sports, you shall be amazed by its versatility; our customers have been wearing it for surfing, BJJ, workout, paddle sports, and a huge variety of sports
- 【Lightweight & quick dry】The fabric absorbs moisture well while maintaining its breathability, and continuously keep your body out from humidity
- The Ultimate Jiu Jitsu Shorts: Our Classic BJJ Fight Shorts have been trusted by 100,000+ athletes since 2016. You've seen them on the biggest names in the sport, it's time to try them for yourself.
- Maximum Stretch: Legend has it our training shorts were designed from the same material as Stretch Armstrong. Ok, not really, but they have an incredible flex that allows you to focus on your roll and not your gear.
- Competition Legal: The only thing pesky IBJJF refs will DQ you faster than knee reaping for, is wearing fight shorts with pockets. We eliminated them and anything else that could snag a finger.
The Ultimate Jiu Jitsu Apparel Buying Guide
Choosing the right Jiu Jitsu apparel makes a big difference in your training. Good gear helps you move freely and stay comfortable. This guide will help you pick the best gear for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you buy Jiu Jitsu clothes, look for specific features. These features keep you focused on your rolls, not your gear.
Durability and Stitching
- Strong Seams: Look for reinforced stitching, especially in high-stress areas like the shoulders and crotch. This stops rips during hard pulling.
- Material Thickness (for Gis): A heavier weave (like Pearl Weave) lasts longer than a very light one.
Fit and Mobility
- Stretch: Your clothes must stretch. You need full range of motion for takedowns and submissions.
- Tapered Fit: Gis should fit snugly but not restrict movement. Rashguards should feel like a second skin.
Comfort and Hygiene
- Breathability: Good gear lets air flow. This keeps you cooler during long sessions.
- Wicking Properties: The fabric should pull sweat away from your skin. This prevents chafing and keeps you drier.
Important Materials Matter
The material your apparel is made from is crucial. Different materials offer different benefits for training.
Rashguards and Shorts (No-Gi)
- Spandex/Lycra Blends: These provide excellent stretch and a tight fit. They dry very quickly.
- Polyester Blends: Often mixed with spandex, polyester is strong and resists shrinking.
Kimono (Gi) Materials
- Cotton: Cotton is traditional and breathable. It feels soft against the skin. Heavier cotton weaves are more durable.
- Pearl Weave: This is a common, durable weave for the jacket. It balances weight and strength well.
- Ripstop: Sometimes used for pants, this fabric resists tearing, making it very tough.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all Jiu Jitsu gear is made equal. Small details often show the biggest difference in quality.
Quality Boosters
- High GSM (Grams per Square Meter): For Gis, a higher GSM usually means a heavier, tougher jacket.
- Anti-Odor Technology: Some fabrics have silver ions or other treatments that fight smelly bacteria.
- Quality Patches/Embroidery: Look for patches that are sewn on securely, not just cheap iron-ons that peel off after washing.
Quality Reducers
- Thin, Loose Weaves: These rip easily when someone grabs them.
- Poor Dye Jobs: Cheaply dyed fabric often bleeds color in the wash, ruining other clothes.
- Excessive Shrinkage: If the material shrinks too much after the first wash, the gear becomes unwearable.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how and when you will use the gear. Your needs change based on training style.
Training Intensity
- Light Rolling/Drilling: A lighter Gi or a standard rashguard works great. You prioritize comfort.
- Hard Sparring/Competition: You need the toughest gear. Choose high-density weaves and durable stitching for competition Gis. Rashguards must stay put and resist grabbing.
Climate
- Hot Climates: Choose light, highly breathable Gis (like Gold Weave or summer weaves) and thin rashguards.
- Cold Climates: A slightly heavier Gi offers a little more warmth, but ventilation is still key.
Remember, good gear supports your training. Invest wisely so your focus stays on learning Jiu Jitsu.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Jiu Jitsu Apparel
Q: Do I need a specific Gi for competition?
A: Yes. Competitions have strict rules about Gi weight, material, and patch placement. Check the specific rules of the tournament you plan to enter.
Q: How often should I wash my rashguard?
A: You must wash your rashguard after every single use. Sweat breeds bacteria, and you do not want to bring that to your next class.
Q: Can I wear a regular gym shirt instead of a rashguard for No-Gi?
A: Most schools say no. Rashguards prevent skin-to-skin contact and stop your training partner’s grips from catching on loose fabric. Always check your academy’s rules first.
Q: How do I stop my Gi from shrinking?
A: Wash your Gi in cold water. Always air dry it. Heat from the dryer is the main cause of shrinkage.
Q: Are expensive Gis really better?
A: Often, yes. More expensive Gis usually use tighter, higher-quality weaves that resist breakdown longer. They feel better too.
Q: What is the difference between a Kimono and a Gi?
A: They are the same thing! “Gi” is short for Kimono. It is the traditional uniform used in Jiu Jitsu.
Q: Why are rashguards so tight?
A: The tight fit stops opponents from grabbing and holding onto loose fabric. It also helps wick sweat away efficiently.
Q: How do I deal with rips in my Gi pants?
A: If the rip is small, you can often repair it with heavy-duty thread or fabric tape. For large tears in high-stress areas, you might need to replace the pants or the whole Gi.
Q: Should my Gi jacket be stiff when I buy it?
A: New Gis often feel a bit stiff because the cotton is tightly woven. They soften up significantly after several washes and wears.
Q: Do I need special No-Gi shorts, or can I use board shorts?
A: Many schools allow board shorts, but Jiu Jitsu-specific No-Gi shorts are better. They have less loose material and often have better stretch panels for grappling.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!