Buying Your First BJJ Gi: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide

Understanding the Basics of a BJJ Gi

A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) gi is the traditional uniform worn during training and competitions in this grappling art, which is a cornerstone of mixed martial arts (MMA). Unlike no-gi grappling that uses rash guards and shorts, the gi provides grips on the collar, sleeves, and pants, adding strategic depth to techniques like chokes, sweeps, and armbars. It's also used in related disciplines like judo and some karate styles, making it versatile for MMA fighters cross-training in submissions.

For beginners, choosing your first gi can feel overwhelming amid options in weaves, weights, and fits. This guide walks you through everything step-by-step, ensuring you pick gear that supports your mat time without breaking the bank.

Types of Gis: Tailored to Your Discipline

Gis vary by martial art:

BJJ Gis: Lightweight and flexible, optimized for ground fighting. They feature reinforced knees and a shorter crop top for mobility.

Judo Gis: Heavier (around 16-20 oz per yard), durable for throws. BJJ practitioners sometimes use these for added toughness.

Karate Gis: Very lightweight (8-12 oz), with a cross-collar and free-flowing pants—less common in grappling but useful for strikers in MMA.

Most new grapplers start with a BJJ-specific gi, as it balances durability and comfort for long sessions.

Key Materials and Weaves Explained

Gis are primarily cotton-based, but weave and weight affect feel, drying time, and longevity:

Pearl Weave (PW): Single-layer with a subtle texture. Lightweight (350-450gsm), quick-drying, ideal for beginners and hot climates. Great for MMA training where sweat is constant.

Gold Weave (GW or Crystal): Tighter double weave, heavier (500-600gsm). More resistant to rips but slower to dry—perfect for competition.

Honeycomb Weave: Hexagonal pattern for breathability and strength. A middle ground at 400-500gsm.

Ripstop Weave: Nylon-infused for tear resistance, lightweight (350gsm), and affordable.

Pro Tip: Start with 350-450gsm pearl weave. It's forgiving for white belts learning guard passes without excessive bulk restricting movement.

Sizing Your Gi Right: The Most Critical Step

A poor fit leads to bunching fabric or loose grips, hindering technique. Measure yourself accurately:

1. Height and Weight: Gis are sized A0-A6 (kids to super heavyweights). E.g., A2 fits 5'6"-5'9", 150-170 lbs.
2. Arm and Leg Length: Check sleeve (to wrist bone) and pant inseam.
3. Try-On Rules:

Collar should sit 1-2 inches above shoulder seam when worn.

Sleeves end mid-palm when arms extended.

Pants cuff 1-2 inches above ankle.

Jacket hem reaches halfway down thigh.

Most brands offer size charts—cross-reference with your measurements. Apollo MMA stocks gis with reliable sizing across brands. Pre-shrunk options minimize surprises post-wash.

| Size | Height | Weight | Common Fit |
|------|--------|--------|-------------|
| A1 | 5'2"-5'6" | 120-150 lbs | Slim adults |
| A2 | 5'6"-5'10" | 150-180 lbs | Average male |
| A3 | 5'10"-6'0" | 180-210 lbs | Taller builds |
| A4+ | 6'0"+ | 210+ lbs | Heavyweights |

Budget Breakdown: Quality Without Overspending

Entry-Level ($50-100): Sanabul, RDX—solid for gym use, but may fade after 6 months.
Mid-Range ($100-150): Fuji, Tatami, Origin—balanced durability and comfort.
Premium ($150-300): Shoyoroll, Hyperfly, Kingz—competition-ready with custom fits.

Invest in mid-range for your first gi; it lasts 1-2 years of 3x weekly training. Check Apollo MMA for deals on these trusted brands.

Top Brands for Beginners

Fuji: Affordable, consistent sizing, wide colors. Competes with pricier options.
Tatami: Innovative designs, reinforced stitching. Elements line is moisture-wicking.
Origin: USA-made, lifetime guarantee. Haiku model is a lightweight favorite.
Scramble: Stylish, athlete-tested. Athletic fit reduces drag in scrambles.

Avoid no-name Amazon gis—they shrink unevenly and tear easily.

Maintenance: Keep Your Gi Tournament-Ready

Proper care extends life:
1. Wash: Cold water, gentle cycle, no bleach. Wash inside-out.
2. Dry: Air dry flat—never machine dry to prevent shrinkage (up to 10%).
3. Stink Control: Rinse immediately post-class. Soak in vinegar/water (1:4) for odors.
4. Storage: Hang in a ventilated area.

For MMA fighters, rotate 2-3 gis to allow full drying between sessions.