Why Choose a BJJ Gi?
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), the gi serves as more than just clothing—it's a fundamental part of the art. Traditional gis consist of a jacket, pants, and belt, mimicking the uniform used in judo, from which BJJ evolved. Wearing a gi offers several key benefits:
- Hygiene and Durability: The thick fabric acts as a barrier against sweat, skin contact, and mat burns, making it ideal for intense grappling sessions.
- Grip Fighting: The gi provides ample material for grips on collars, sleeves, and cuffs, enabling advanced techniques like collar chokes and sleeve control that are central to gi-based BJJ.
- Tradition and Uniformity: It honors the roots of the sport and ensures a level playing field in competitions by standardizing attire.
For MMA enthusiasts or those training in no-gi grappling, a gi is still valuable for building foundational skills transferable to wrestling or submission grappling. Even if you compete no-gi, many practitioners own a gi for varied training.
Gi Types: Competition vs. Training
Gis come in two main categories:
- IBFJJ-Approved Gis: These meet strict standards set by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation for tournaments. They must use specific weaves, weights, and colors, with official patches. Ideal if you plan to compete.
- Training Gis: More flexible in design, often lighter or customized for daily practice. Great for beginners focusing on mat time without immediate competition goals.
Choosing between them depends on your goals—opt for IBJJF-compliant if tournaments are in your future, or a versatile training gi to start.
Understanding Gi Weaves and Materials
The weave determines a gi's weight, flexibility, and durability. Here's a breakdown:
| Weave Type | Description | Best For |
|------------|-------------|----------|
| Pearl Weave | Balanced 450gsm cotton, softens with washes. Standard for most. | Beginners, all-purpose training. |
| Gold Weave | Heavier 550gsm, stiffer initially but durable. IBJJF approved. | Competition, long-term use. |
| Single Weave | Lightweight ~350gsm, breathable and quick-drying. | Hot climates, no-gi transitions, kids. |
| Double Weave | Thick ~750gsm, very strong but heavy. | Advanced grip work, colder environments. |
| Honeycomb/Spider | Textured for better grip, medium weight. | Enhanced control in advanced rolls. |
Most gis are 100% cotton, which absorbs moisture but shrinks initially (pre-shrunk options minimize this). Innovations include:
- Bamboo Blends: Softer, antimicrobial, more expensive.
- Hybrid Fabrics: Cotton-poly mixes for lighter weight and less shrinkage.
Pro Tip: Start with pearl weave for comfort—it's forgiving for newbies while handling BJJ's rigors across MMA, Muay Thai cross-training, or pure grappling.
Sizing Your First Gi
Proper fit prevents chokes, rips, and discomfort. Measure yourself accurately:
1. Height and Weight: Primary guides, but check charts.
2. Key Measurements:
- Jacket: Shoulder width, chest, sleeve length.
- Pants: Waist, inseam, outseam.
| Size | Height | Weight | Notes |
|------|--------|--------|-------|
| A1 | 5'0"-5'4" | 100-130 lbs | Extra small |
| A2 | 5'4"-5'8" | 130-160 lbs | Small |
| A3 | 5'8"-6'0" | 160-190 lbs | Medium |
| A4 | 6'0"-6'3" | 190-220 lbs | Large |
| A5 | 6'3"+ | 220+ lbs | X-Large |
- Women: Often A1/A2; check gender-specific charts.
- Fit Preferences: Roomy for movement vs. fitted for competition.
Always consult brand-specific charts (e.g., Fuji, Tatami) as cuts differ. Try on if possible, or buy from retailers with easy returns like Apollo MMA.
Colors and Competition Rules
IBJJF dictates colors by belt rank:
- White: All belts.
- Blue: Blue belts+.
- Purple: Purple+.
- Brown/Black: Respective ranks.
Other hues like red/black exist for training but aren't tournament-legal. Solids only—no patterns for comps.
Top Brands for Quality Gis
Reliable manufacturers include:
- Fuji: Affordable, durable staple.
- Tatami: Stylish, great value.
- Shoyoroll: Premium, limited editions.
- Origin: Heavy-duty, IBJJF compliant.
- Kingz: Comfort-focused innovations.
- Scramble/Hyperfly: Modern fits and designs.
Expect $80-150 for entry-level, $150-300 for pro-grade. Invest in mid-range for longevity.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Gis get filthy fast—proper care extends life:
- Washing: Cold water, gi-specific detergent (e.g., Pure Clean). No bleach/softeners.
- Drying: Air dry; avoid dryers to prevent shrinkage.
- Stink Prevention: Rinse post-training, sun dry.
- Repairs: Stitch rips immediately.
Add value: Rotate 2-3 gis to reduce wear, especially in high-volume MMA gyms blending BJJ with striking.
Final Thoughts: Gear Up Right
Your first gi should prioritize fit, weave, and budget while matching your training style. Whether rolling in BJJ class, prepping for MMA fights, or exploring judo/wrestling crossovers, a quality gi elevates your game. Head to Apollo MMA to browse our curated selection of top brands and find the perfect one for you.
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