A Journey into BJJ Gi Obsession in Japan
In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), few things spark as much passion as a well-curated gi collection. Recently, we had the privilege of visiting Masashi, a dedicated BJJ practitioner and collector in Japan who has amassed over 300 gis. His setup is nothing short of inspiring for anyone serious about the sport, whether you're training in BJJ, MMA, or related disciplines like wrestling. This isn't just a hobby—it's a testament to the history, craftsmanship, and evolution of the BJJ uniform.
Masashi's collection spans decades, showcasing everything from early pioneer brands to modern heavyweights. For fighters and enthusiasts shopping at premium retailers like Apollo MMA, understanding pieces like these highlights why quality gis matter in your training arsenal. Let's dive into the details of his impressive array, organization methods, maintenance routines, and standout favorites.
The Sheer Scale of the Collection
Housed in a dedicated room, Masashi's collection occupies multiple custom racks and shelves, organized meticulously by brand, era, and condition. With over 300 gis, it's one of the largest private collections we've encountered. This level of dedication offers valuable lessons for anyone building their own gear lineup, especially in combat sports where the right gi can enhance grip fighting, mobility, and durability during rolls.
- Space Optimization: He uses vertical racking systems to maximize storage without compromising accessibility. Tip for home gyms: Invest in breathable garment bags to protect against dust while allowing air circulation.
- Categorization: Gis are grouped by manufacturer—vintage sections for historical pieces, contemporary for daily trainers. This mirrors how pros categorize gear for quick selection before sessions.
For MMA fighters incorporating BJJ into their game, a reliable gi from brands like Fuji or Tatami ensures consistency across no-gi and gi training transitions.
Highlighting Rare and Vintage Gems
Masashi's treasures include some of the rarest gis on the planet, each with a story tied to BJJ's global growth. Here's a rundown of standout pieces:
Early Scramble Athlete Gis
One shelf holds the very first Scramble Athlete gi, a blue model that's prized for its original stitching and fabric weight. Nearby, limited-edition Scramble x El Sudo Hotel collaboration gis in white and black stand out for their unique embroidery. These athlete-series drops are collector favorites due to their high-thread-count pearl weave and reinforced knees—perfect for intense grappling sessions.Fuji Classics
Fuji features prominently with authentic vintage models from the 90s and early 2000s. A highlight is the double-weave black gi, known for its stiffness and longevity, ideal for traditional training. Masashi points out the evolution in collar construction, which modern Fuji gis like the All-Around Competition have refined for better hygiene and grip.Shoyoroll and Hyperfly Rarities
- Shoyoroll Wave 1: One of the original releases, celebrated for its lightweight single-weave and bold patterns. Collectors value these for their role in popularizing aesthetic gis.
- Hyperfly x Fuji Comp: A collaborative pearl weave that's lightweight yet durable, favored in competition circuits.
These pieces aren't just display items; Masashi rotates them into training, emphasizing how vintage gis inform modern designs available at stores like Apollo MMA.
Meticulous Care and Maintenance Routines
Maintaining 300+ gis requires discipline, and Masashi's methods are a masterclass for all grapplers:
1. Washing Protocol: He washes gis immediately after use in cold water with a gentle detergent, avoiding fabric softeners to preserve weave integrity. For tough stains from sweaty MMA drills, a pre-soak in vinegar helps.
2. Drying Technique: Air-drying on custom hangers prevents shrinkage—crucial for pearl weave gis. He avoids dryers entirely, extending gi lifespan by years.
3. Storage Best Practices: Gis are hung collar-up to maintain shape, with silica packs in bags for humidity control (vital in Japan's climate). Periodic inspections catch wear early.
Pro Tip for BJJ and MMA Athletes: Rotate 3-5 gis weekly to allow full drying, reducing bacteria buildup. This applies across disciplines—Muay Thai clinch fighters using gi-like training aids benefit similarly.
Masashi's Favorites and Training Insights
When pressed for favorites, Masashi highlights the Scramble Athlete series for everyday reliability and the vintage Fuji double-weave for its 'old-school' feel during technique drills. He trains 5-6 days a week, blending gi and no-gi to stay versatile—much like MMA fighters preparing for UFC or ONE Championship events.
His collection inspires customization: Adding patches from tournaments or academies personalizes gear, boosting motivation. For beginners, start with versatile options like Sanabul Essentials before chasing rarities.
Why Collect Gis? Lessons for Fighters
Beyond aesthetics, collecting teaches appreciation for craftsmanship:
- Durability Testing: Vintage gis surviving decades prove quality brands like Venum or Rival excel in high-impact sports.
- Historical Context: Understanding gi evolution—from heavy kanji-labeled models to lightweight IBJJF-spec—enhances technique execution.
- Investment Angle: Rare pieces hold or appreciate in value, but prioritize training utility first.
At Apollo MMA, explore our BJJ gi selection featuring trusted brands to build your foundation. Whether stacking for a home gym or competing, quality gear elevates performance.
Expanding Your Own Collection
Inspired? Here's a step-by-step to start:
1. Assess needs: Competition (lightweight pearl), training (double-weave), or hybrid MMA.
2. Budget wisely: Entry-level from Elite Sports, premium like Hyperfly.
3. Maintain rigorously: Follow Masashi's wash-dry-store cycle.
4. Hunt ethically: Tournaments, fellow collectors, or reputable retailers.
This glimpse into Japan's gi haven reminds us: Gear is more than fabric—it's the uniform of warriors in BJJ, MMA, kickboxing, and beyond. Check out our collection at Apollo MMA for your next addition.
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