No-Gi Gear Checklist for Beginners

Everything you need to start training no-gi BJJ. A complete beginner's guide to essential gear without overspending.

The Complete No-Gi Gear Guide for Beginners

Starting your no-gi journey is exciting, but figuring out what gear you actually need can be overwhelming. The good news is that beginners need very little equipment to get started. This guide breaks down exactly what to buy, what to skip, and how to avoid common beginner gear mistakes.

Your essential starter kit consists of just three items: a rash guard, grappling shorts, and a towel. That's it. You can walk into your first class with these basics and train effectively for months before considering any additions. Resist the urge to buy everything at once—you'll develop preferences as you train, and early purchases often end up unused.

For your first rash guard, prioritize comfort and durability over style. A basic black or dark-coloured rash guard in the $30-50 range will serve you well — ours start there, and the entry price buys the same job as anything dearer. Short or long sleeve is personal preference—long sleeves provide more mat burn protection, while short sleeves may feel less restrictive. You'll eventually want both, but start with one.

Grappling shorts require specific features: no pockets, no zippers, and no exposed metal hardware of any kind. These restrictions exist for safety—hardware can catch fingers and toes, causing serious injuries. Board shorts from your closet might work for your first class if they meet these criteria, but dedicated grappling shorts ($25-40) provide better mobility and durability.

What you explicitly don't need as a beginner: spats (optional but nice), compression shorts (your underwear works fine), knee pads (premature purchase), specific competition gear (worry about this later), the expensive extras. Many beginners overspend on gear they don't use or don't yet have the experience to appreciate. Start minimal and add items as genuine needs arise from your training experience.

What to look for

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Frequently asked questions

What gear do I need for my first no-gi class?
At minimum: a rash guard (short or long sleeve) and grappling shorts without pockets or zippers. Board shorts without metal hardware work for your first class if you don't have proper grappling shorts yet.
How much should beginners spend on no-gi gear?
Plan to spend $50-100 total on starter gear. A quality rash guard costs $30-50, and decent shorts run $25-40. You can always upgrade later once you know your preferences.
Do I need to buy spats as a beginner?
Spats are optional but recommended. They prevent mat burn, provide compression support, and keep you covered when your shorts shift. Many beginners add spats after a few months of training.
What should I avoid in beginner no-gi gear?
Avoid: cotton t-shirts (they absorb sweat and enable grips), shorts with pockets or zippers (injury hazard), and any jewelry or hard accessories. Stick to proper grappling-specific gear.
How many rash guards does a beginner need?
Start with 2-3 rash guards if you train 2-3 times per week. This allows time for washing and drying between sessions. Add more as your training frequency increases.