The Art of Choosing Bjj Gear Under 100 for MMA

Picture this: You're midway through a grueling MMA sparring session at your local gym. Your training partner shoots for a double-leg takedown, and suddenly you're both on the mat, scrambling for position in a sweaty clinch. But instead of focusing on your guard recovery or armbar setup, you're distracted by a gi that's ripping at the seams or rash guards bunching up under your compression gear. As a former pro MMA fighter with over 15 years in the cage and countless hours drilling BJJ, I've been there—gear failures mid-roll can kill your flow and confidence.

This is the harsh reality for many fighters hunting for bjj gear under 100 that actually holds up in MMA training. Budgets are tight, but cutting corners on quality means more injuries, frustration, and wasted cash replacing junk. In this guide, I'll share my hard-earned insights on scoring the best bjj gear under 100—gear that's battle-tested for grapplers crossing over into MMA, Muay Thai, or wrestling.

Understanding the Challenge: Why Budget BJJ Gear for MMA Feels Like a Gamble

Fighters often face a tough trade-off when shopping for MMA bjj gear under 100. Premium brands like Hayabusa or Shoyoroll craft gis from 450gsm pearl weave cotton that shrugs off grips from heavyweights, but those can run $150+. On the flip side, bargain-bin options from no-name makers shred after a few sessions, leaving you with raw skin and zero protection.

The core issue? BJJ gear in MMA demands versatility. Unlike pure grappling academies, MMA mats blend stand-up striking with ground work, exposing gear to sweat, chalk, and friction from sprawls or guard passes. Durability isn't just about thread count—it's reinforced stitching at stress points like the collar and cuffs, which budget gear often skimps on. I've tested dozens of entry-level gis during my coaching days; many use 350gsm fabric that's fine for white belts drilling shrimps at home but fails when pros crank submissions.

Skill level amplifies the problem. Beginners need forgiving fits for mobility drills, while advanced fighters prioritize minimalism to shed ounces in competition. Add in body types—stocky wrestlers vs. lanky strikers—and sizing becomes a minefield. Safety is non-negotiable too: thin collars risk gi chokes slipping, and poor moisture-wicking leads to slips on sweat-slicked mats.

Solution Overview: Smart Strategies for High-Value BJJ Gear Under $100

The good news? You don't need to drop pro-level cash for gear that performs. By focusing on targeted categories—gis, rash guards, shorts, and accessories—you can build a complete bjj gear under 100 for training kit totaling under $300, with each piece punching above its price. My approach, honed from outfitting gym teams on shoestring budgets, emphasizes material science over hype.

Key principles:

• Prioritize 350-400gsm fabrics for gis: Lightweight yet tough enough for daily rolls.
• Seek Spandex-poly blends in rash guards: 80/20 ratios wick sweat without restricting BJJ hip escapes.
• Opt for split-side shorts: No-gi freedom for MMA transitions to takedowns.
• Validate with real-user reps: Fighters like UFC's grappling coaches swear by brands like Venum or Tatami for value.

At Apollo MMA, our curated selection distills these into bjj gear under 100 for fighters that I've personally vetted. Check our gear guides for deeper dives, and pair with [compression gear](/collections/compression) for full-stack protection.

Detailed Steps: Building Your Budget BJJ Arsenal Piece by Piece

Step 1: Nail the Gi – Foundation of Ground Control

The gi is your BJJ command center in MMA. Aim for under $80 to leave room for no-gi staples. Tatami Elements or Venum Elite series hit the sweet spot at 350gsm cotton-poly pearl weave—breathable for humid gym sessions yet grip-resistant against collar drags.

In my experience, pre-shrunk fabrics are crucial; wash a cheap 100% cotton gi once, and it shrinks two sizes, turning armbars into torture. Reinforced knees withstand knee-cut passes, vital for wrestling-heavy MMA. Sizing tip: Go A2 for most under 6'0"—it fits snug without binding during berimbolos. Real-world test: During a 5-round MMA camp, my Tatami held up to 20 rolls weekly, while a $40 Amazon knockoff tore at the vents.

For home workouts or kids' classes, slim-fit options under $60 add value without bulk.

Step 2: Rash Guards – Your Skin's Silent Guardian

No conversation on best bjj gear under 100 skips rash guards. These Spandex warriors prevent mat burns during elbow escapes or guard retention. Sanabul or Hayabusa entry lines offer seamless construction under $40, with flatlock stitching that doesn't chafe under load.

Polyester-elastane blends (85/15) dominate for MMA: Quick-dry for back-to-back spars, antimicrobial treatments curb stink in commercial gyms. Long-sleeve for max coverage in BJJ; short for Muay Thai clinch work. I've rolled in budget pairs through 100+ sessions—Venum's hold shape post-dryer, unlike thinner generics that pill up.

Pro move: Layer with [Muay Thai gear](/collections/muay-thai) for hybrid sessions; the compression fights fatigue during prolonged top control.

Step 3: Shorts and Spats – Mobility Without Sacrifice

Hybrid shorts bridge gi and no-gi MMA. Venum Attack or Everlast ones under $50 feature 4-way stretch and Velcro-free waists—no snags on leg locks. Nylon-spandex shells with microfiber liners grip thighs for sprawls, essential in wrestling drills.

Spats (under $30) fill the gap for grapplers prone to gi pants riding up. RDX or Fairtex basics use grippy cuffs that stay put during inverted guard. For kickboxers dipping into BJJ, pair with [kickboxing gear](/collections/kickboxing) for seamless transitions. Body type hack: Taller fighters size up in inseam to avoid camel toe during deep squats.

Safety note: Avoid baggy boardshorts—they absorb sweat, turning into slip hazards mid-scramble.

Step 4: Essentials – Mouthguards, Finger Tape, and Maintenance Musts

Round out with Shock Doctor mouthguards ($15)—boil-and-bite for custom fit, EVA foam absorbs BJJ gnashing better than stock trays. Zebra finger tape ($8 rolls) reinforces pinkies for kimura grips without bulk.

Under $100 total for these keeps your kit lean. I've taped thousands of rounds; athletic tape's stickiness beats medical for humid dojos.

Expert Tips: Marcus Silva's Insider Hacks for Maximizing Budget Gear

From my cage days, here's what separates weekend warriors from pros—even on a budget:

• Sizing Mastery: Measure chest, waist, and inseam post-workout (muscles swell). Brands like Ringside run true; Tatami large fits 180-200lb frames like a glove.
• Durability Boosts: Pre-wash gis in vinegar baths to lock dyes and soften fibers. Air-dry rash guards—heat kills elasticity after 10 cycles.
• Training-Specific Picks: Gym rats: Prioritize IBJJF-compliant gis for tourneys. Home gym: Lightweight no-gi kits for solo drills. Competition: Double-check weight cuts; budget gear sheds water faster.
• Trade-Off Honesty: Under $100 won't match Shoyoroll's lifetime stitching, but Venum's 1-year warranty covers defects. Skip if you're a 250lb+ heavyweight—upgrade to 450gsm.
• Hybrid Discipline Synergy: BJJ gear shines in MMA ground game but pairs with boxing wraps for clinch defense. Maintenance ritual: Weekly Oxyclean soaks prevent mat funk.

Lesser-known gem: Test grip strength pre-purchase—twist the lapel; quality pearl weave resists fraying. For intermediates, no-gi bundles save 20% at Apollo MMA.

Anticipating questions: Is $100 too low for pros? Not for training—save premium for fight night. Beginners: Start minimal; add as technique sharpens.

Conclusion: Gear Up Smart, Roll Strong – Your Path to MMA Dominance Starts Here

Choosing bjj gear under 100 for MMA isn't about settling—it's mastering value to fuel your evolution from white belt to black belt beast. With these picks, you'll train distraction-free, recover faster, and focus on what matters: chaining that guard pass into a mount finish.

I've built champions on budgets like this, and now it's your turn. Head to Apollo MMA's collection for the best bjj gear under 100—handpicked for fighters worldwide. Stock up, hit the mats, and tag us in your PRs. The grind rewards the prepared.

Written by Marcus Silva, Former Pro MMA Fighter & Apollo MMA Gear Specialist