What to Wear to First Gi Class?
Walking into your first gi class without the right gear is like showing up to a cage fight in flip-flops—it's doable, but you'll regret it fast. If you're an MMA fighter dipping into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or a complete beginner wondering what to wear to first gi class, the key is preparation that respects the art's traditions while prioritizing comfort and safety. As Sarah Chen, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and certified strength & conditioning coach, I've rolled with everyone from white belts sweating their first session to pros like those training under elite BJJ gis at Apollo MMA.
In this guide, I'll break down exactly what you need—from the gi itself to underlayers and accessories—drawing from years of mat time in commercial gyms, home setups, and competition environments. Whether you're transitioning from no-gi MMA grappling or starting fresh, we'll cover the essentials for what to wear to first gi class for fighters and training newbies alike. Let's get you mat-ready.
Expert Perspective: My Take as a BJJ Black Belt
Picture this: It's your first day at a bustling BJJ academy. The air smells of sweat and chalk, and everyone's wrapped in crisp white gis. I've been there countless times, both as a student and coach, and the last thing you want is gear that chafes, rips, or distracts you from learning that first shrimping drill.
From hands-on experience training in everything from 350gsm pearl weave gis to heavy 550gsm gold weaves, the gi is non-negotiable for traditional classes. "Many gyms let you borrow one," I often tell wide-eyed beginners, "but investing in your own from day one shows commitment and avoids that awkward 'gym gi funk.'" For MMA fighters, the gi adds grip-fighting challenges absent in no-gi, sharpening your cage control.
Rash guards underneath? Essential. I've seen cotton tees bunch up during guard passes, leading to mat burns. Spats or athletic shorts prevent gi fabric from riding up during leg entanglements. My pro tip: Prioritize breathability—merino wool blends or poly-spandex rash guards wick sweat better than basic cotton, crucial in humid gym sessions or Muay Thai crossover training.
Sizing matters immensely. A gi too baggy turns you into a sail during takedowns; too tight restricts hip mobility for bridges. I recommend A0 or A1 for most adults under 5'10", with brands like Tatami or Hayabusa offering pre-shrunk options. Test the collar—stiff rice-collar styles endure grips but soften with washes, unlike buttery bamboo alternatives.
Industry Insights: What Pros and Brands Recommend
The BJJ world has evolved, but core standards remain. Industry leaders like Shoyoroll and Venum emphasize durability: A good gi withstands 100+ washes without fading, using reinforced knee patches and triple-stitched seams. For your first class, pros like Gordon Ryan advocate single-weave (pearl or feather) for lightness—around 350-450gsm—ideal for beginners drilling escapes all session.
Fighter preferences vary by discipline. MMA grapplers from camps like American Top Team favor Venum or Hayabusa gis with IBJJF-approved colors (white, blue, black for competition). Wrestlers crossing over appreciate gold weave's sturdiness, mimicking singlet toughness. Kickboxers adding BJJ often start with no-gi but quickly adapt to gi friction, which builds better lapel control for clinch work.
Brand reputations shine in specifics. Tatami's Elements line uses lightweight 350gsm fabric that's quick-drying, perfect for back-to-back classes. Fairtex, known for Muay Thai gear, offers hybrid gis blending BJJ with striking durability. Price-to-value? Entry-level gis at $80-120 last years if maintained; skip $300 exotics until blue belt. Apollo MMA curates these with fighter input, ensuring you're not buying hype.
Safety standards from IBJJF and US Grappling mandate flat cuffs and no abrasive patches—violations disqualify in tourneys. For training, look for antimicrobial treatments in rash guards (e.g., polygiene in Hyperfly) to combat gym bacteria.
Practical Advice: Step-by-Step Gear Checklist
Here's your no-fluff packing list for what to wear to first gi class for training. Tailored for gym, home, or comp scenarios:
The Gi: Your Uniform
- Material & Weight: Pearl weave single (350gsm) for breathability. Avoid double-gold for first class—too heavy for drilling.
- Sizing: Measure chest/waist/height per brand charts. Hayabusa's A1 fits 5'6"-5'10" athletes broad-shouldered from MMA lifts.
- Colors: White for tradition; navy if your gym allows. Check house rules.
- Where to Get It: Browse Apollo MMA's BJJ gis collection for IBJJF-legal options under $100.
Underlayers: Comfort and Hygiene
- Rash Guard: Long-sleeve poly-spandex (e.g., Venum or Sanabul). Prevents gi chafing on forearms during collar chokes. Short-sleeve for milder climates.
- Spats or Shorts: Compression spats (nylon/elastane) for gi legs; board shorts for no-gi transitions. GrappleArts-tested brands like Elitesport grip without slipping.
- Underwear: Seamless athletic briefs—no cotton boxers that bunch.
Accessories: The Overlooked Essentials
- Belt: White for beginners (included with most gis). Tie securely—loose ends trip you.
- Nail Clippers & Toe Spacers: Trim nails short; spacers prevent toe jams in guard.
- Gym Bag: Duffel with ventilation pockets for wet gear.
For home workouts, same setup minus bag. In comps, add tape for finger reinforcements. Maintenance: Rinse gi post-class in cold water, air-dry—no dryer shrinkage.
Body type tweaks: Stocky wrestlers size down jackets for snugness; lanky kickboxers prioritize long pants for ankle protection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Lessons from the Mats
I've tapped out rookies—and been tapped—due to gear fails. Here's what trips up most:
- Wearing Street Clothes: Jeans or tees absorb sweat, breed bacteria, and tear. One student shredded a hoodie mid-armbar.
- Wrong Size Gi: Baggy = sloppy grips; tight = restricted breathing. Always try-on or use return policies at Apollo MMA.
- Forgetting Rash Guard: Bare skin + gi friction = road rash. MMA fighters know this from clinch sparring.
- Skipping Mouthguard: Even light rolls risk dental bills. Pros like Demian Maia swear by them.
- Poor Hygiene: Don't rewear a damp gi—ringworm city. Wash with gi-specific detergent like Renzo Gracie's formula.
Trade-offs: Budget gis fade faster, but Tatami's bamboo lines balance cost and feel. Don't cheap out on spats; loose legs snag during ashi garami.
Future Outlook: Evolving Gear for Modern Practitioners
Gi design is innovating. Expect more sustainable fabrics—recycled polyester gis from Origin hitting 400gsm with zero shrinkage. Antimicrobial silver threads in rash guards will dominate post-pandemic gyms.
For MMA hybrids, look for modular gis with detachable sleeves for no-gi switches. Women's gear is booming: Tailored fits from RDX address curves without bagginess. Tech integrations like embedded sensors for roll analytics? On the horizon, but basics rule for now.
As training environments shift—more home gyms via Zoom classes—compact, travel-ready gis like Hyperfly's Ultralight will surge. Pros predict pearl weave staying king for its versatility across BJJ, Wrestling, and Sambo.
Summary: Gear Up Right and Roll Confident
Your first gi class sets the tone—proper gear lets you focus on technique, not discomfort. From the gi's weave to rash guard's stretch, every choice impacts performance. MMA fighters, this bridges your no-gi skills; beginners, it builds a strong foundation.
Honest truth: Start simple, upgrade as you progress. No need for $400 customs yet. Head to Apollo MMA's collection for vetted picks that deliver. Questions? Drop a comment—I've got your back. Oss!
By Sarah Chen, BJJ Black Belt & Apollo MMA Gear Expert
