The Challenges of Buying Martial Arts Gear Online
Shopping for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) gear, MMA equipment, or combat sports apparel online offers convenience, but it comes with hurdles. Without trying items on, issues like improper sizing can lead to frustration, returns, and wasted time. Many fighters and enthusiasts have ordered a gi that swallows them whole or a rash guard that's too tight. This guide draws from real experiences to help you navigate the digital marketplace confidently, ensuring your next purchase from a trusted retailer like Apollo MMA fits perfectly.
Whether you're into BJJ, Muay Thai, wrestling, or full MMA, proper fit enhances performance, comfort, and durability. We'll cover key measurements, common mistakes, and strategies for success across disciplines.
Why Sizing Matters in Combat Sports
In grappling arts like BJJ and wrestling, a gi must allow fluid movement for guard passes, sweeps, and submissions without restricting or bunching up. For striking sports such as boxing, kickboxing, or Muay Thai, rash guards and shorts need to wick moisture, provide compression, and stay in place during intense sessions.
Poor fit leads to distractions: chafing from loose fabrics, overheating in oversized gear, or limited mobility in tight items. Professional fighters prioritize gear that feels like a second skin. For amateurs and gym-goers, it means safer, more enjoyable training.
Common Pitfalls in Online Purchases
- Relying on Standard Clothing Sizes: BJJ gis (A0-A5 for men, smaller scales for women) and rash guards use athletic-specific sizing. A medium T-shirt size won't translate.
- Ignoring Brand Variations: Even within brands like Hyperfly, Venum, or Tatami, fits differ slightly by style (e.g., IBJJF competition vs. training).
- Skipping Measurements: Visualizing fit from stock photos alone often fails.
- Overlooking Returns Policies: Not all retailers offer easy exchanges, so choose wisely.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Yourself
Accuracy starts with proper tools: flexible tailor's tape, mirror, and a helper if possible. Measure over bare skin or thin base layers, relaxed (not flexed unless specified).
For BJJ Gis and Uniforms
Gis come in sizes like A1, A2 for men (roughly XS-XXL), with women's variants. 1. Chest/Bust: Measure around the fullest part, under arms, tape level. Add 4-6 inches for gi allowance. 2. Waist: Around navel, relaxed. 3. Hips: Widest part. 4. Inseam: Crotch to ankle. 5. Height and Weight: Crucial for overall scale; charts factor these heavily.Pro Tip: Hyperfly gis run true-to-size but favor the athletic build. Compare your stats to brand charts—e.g., A2 fits 5'8"-6'0", 160-190 lbs typically.
Extend this to karate or judo uniforms, which share similar sizing logic.
For Rash Guards, Compression Tops, and Spats
These are snug for muscle support and moisture management. 1. Chest/Bust: Fullest part, arms down. 2. Waist: Narrowest point. 3. Hips: Widest glute area. 4. Shoulder Width: Across back, from sleeve seam to seam.Rash guards (e.g., from Scramble or Origin) should compress slightly when new but not pinch. Test fit by raising arms overhead—no riding up.
Muay Thai/MMA Application: Pair with 8oz gloves and shin guards from brands like Fairtex or Twins for complete setups.
Shorts, Fight Shorts, and Trunks
1. Waist: Relaxed, at hip bone. 2. Inseam: Inner leg length. 3. Thigh Circumference: Mid-thigh.Valerian or split-end shorts need room for kicks; wrestling singles are more compressive.
Decoding Size Charts and Reviews
Always cross-reference multiple sources:
- Official Charts: Download PDFs from manufacturers like Fuji or Kingz.
- Customer Photos: Look for user-submitted images on retailer sites, noting body types.
- Reviews: Filter by your height/weight. Praise for 'true to size' from similar builds is gold.
Example: A 5'6", 140 lb female grappler might size down in Hyperfly women's rash guards for compression but stick to standard in gis.
Choosing the Right Retailer and Support
Opt for premium stores like Apollo MMA with:
- Detailed size guides and videos.
- Free returns/exchanges.
- Responsive customer service for fit queries.
- Variety from top brands: Hayabusa gloves, Rival headgear, Yokkao Muay Thai gear.
Browse Apollo MMA's collection for curated options tailored to all levels.
Material and Quality Considerations
Beyond fit:
- Gis: Pearl weave (450-550gsm) for durability; gold weave lighter for no-gi transitions.
- Rash Guards: Poly/spandex blends with flatlock seams prevent chafing.
- Durability Test: Quality gear survives 100+ washes; check reinforced stitching.
Maintenance Tips:
- Wash cold, air dry gis to preserve color and shape.
- Avoid dryers for synthetics to maintain elasticity.
Real-World Applications Across Sports
- BJJ/MMA: Pre-rolled sleeve gis reduce grip-fighting.
- Boxing/Kickboxing: Anatomical rash guards with venting for long rounds.
- Wrestling: Singlets with adjustable straps.
Training Example: During a BJJ roll, ill-fitting gi pants slip, breaking posture. Proper inseam prevents this, letting you focus on technique.
Advanced Tips for Frequent Buyers
- Build a Wardrobe: Own 2-3 gis (one competition, two training) and rotate rash guards.
- Custom Options: Brands like Hyperfly offer semi-custom for perfect tailoring.
- Seasonal Adjustments: Lighter fabrics for summer camps; heavier for winter.
Ready to gear up? Explore high-quality BJJ gis, rash guards, and MMA essentials at Apollo MMA today.
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