Starting your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) journey is exciting—but before you step on the mats, there's one thing you absolutely need: a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu uniform, also known as a gi. If you're new to the sport, buying your first gi can feel overwhelming with so many options, materials, fits, and brands out there.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to choose the right BJJ uniform, so you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to train. We’ll also mention some other useful gear, like the heavy duty double prong belt and custom made boxing mitts, that can support your overall training journey.

What Is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Uniform?

A Brazilian Jiu Jitsu uniform is a two-piece outfit made specifically for training and competing in BJJ. It includes:

Gi jacket (kimono): Usually made of strong cotton with a thick collar.

Pants: Reinforced and designed to handle pulling, gripping, and rolling.

Belt: Used to keep the jacket closed and indicate your rank.

The gi isn’t just about appearance—it’s a key part of BJJ technique. Many grips, throws, and submissions involve grabbing the gi, so having a good fit and durable material matters a lot.

1. Choose the Right Type of Gi

There are several types of BJJ gis, and choosing the right one depends on your training goals.

✳️ Training Gi

These are designed for daily use. They’re durable, comfortable, and affordable. A training gi is a perfect choice for beginners.

✳️ Competition Gi

These gis are lighter and tailored to meet competition rules. They may be slimmer and less bulky to make it harder for opponents to grip.

✳️ Lightweight Gi

If you train in a warm climate or want to cut weight for tournaments, go with a lightweight option. Just be sure it’s still strong enough for rolling.

✳️ Double Weave or Gold Weave Gi

These are thicker and more durable, often used by advanced students and competitors. However, they can feel heavier and hotter during training.

2. Pick the Right Size

Size matters a lot in BJJ. A gi that’s too tight restricts movement, while one that’s too loose can get you caught in submissions or penalized in tournaments.

BJJ gi sizes follow an “A” scale (A0, A1, A2, etc.) based on your height and weight. Women’s gis may use “F” sizes (F1, F2, etc.), and kids’ gis typically use “M” sizes.

Always check the brand’s size chart. One brand's A2 might fit completely differently from another’s.

⚠️ Tip:

Most gis shrink after washing. If it fits perfectly out of the bag, it might be too tight after a few washes. Look for “pre-shrunk” gis or size up slightly if you’re unsure.

3. Understand the Material

The best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu uniforms are made of cotton or cotton blends designed for durability, breathability, and grip resistance.

Common Weave Types:

Single Weave: Lightweight, good for beginners.

Double Weave: Thicker, more durable, but heavier.

Gold Weave: A mix between single and double; strong and not too heavy.

Pearl Weave: Popular in modern gis—light, durable, and comfortable.

 Fabric Weight:

Measured in GSM (grams per square meter), the fabric weight affects comfort and durability. Lighter gis (around 350 GSM) are great for warm gyms, while heavier gis (550 GSM+) offer more durability.

4. Check for Reinforcements

A well-made gi will have extra stitching in high-stress areas like:

Armpits

Knees

Collar

Crotch

Double or triple stitching and reinforced knee patches are must-haves, especially if you plan on rolling several times a week.

5. Look at the Belt (But Don’t Stress)

Most beginner gi sets come with a white belt. As you progress, you’ll need to upgrade your belt according to your rank. BJJ belt colors are:

White (beginner)

Blue

Purple

Brown

Black

The belt you wear is a symbol of your experience and effort in the sport. While the gi is your armor, the belt is your badge.

For strength and conditioning work outside the mat, consider adding a heavy duty double prong belt to your gym bag. It’s perfect for building core strength that directly supports your BJJ performance.

6. Consider Style and Fit

Many gis now come in different styles, colors, and designs. While white, blue, and black are the most common and competition-legal, you’ll also find gis in gray, navy, green, and even pink.

Some things to consider:

Do you want patches or plain?

Do you prefer a slim fit or traditional loose fit?

Is the gi approved for IBJJF competitions?

Just remember: while design is fun, comfort and fit should always come first.

7. Set a Budget

For beginners, you don’t need to spend a fortune. A solid gi can cost anywhere between $60–$120. High-end gis can go up to $200 or more.

Don’t buy the cheapest gi out there—poor quality can lead to rips and discomfort. But you also don’t need a premium gi until you’ve trained long enough to know what features you want.

8. How Many Gis Do You Need?

Starting with one gi is fine, but if you train often (3–5 times per week), you’ll want at least two so you always have a clean one ready. Keeping your gi clean is important for hygiene, especially in a close-contact sport like BJJ.

9. Care and Maintenance

To keep your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu uniform in good shape:

Wash after every use.

Use cold water to reduce shrinkage.

Hang dry instead of using the dryer.

Don’t use bleach or fabric softeners—they damage the fabric.

A clean gi also protects your training partners from bacteria and skin infections. Good hygiene builds good training relationships.

10. What Else Should You Buy?

Besides your gi, there are other essentials that support your training:

✅ Rash Guard:

Worn under the gi to prevent rashes and absorb sweat. Some gyms require it.

✅ Mouthguard:

Protects your teeth during rolling or live sparring.

✅ Athletic Tape:

Used for fingers, toes, or small injuries.

✅ Compression Shorts/Spats:

Keeps things in place and adds comfort during training.

If you're cross-training with striking, gear like custom made boxing mitts can be valuable for developing hand-eye coordination and speed. Many BJJ gyms also offer MMA or boxing classes where this equipment becomes useful.

Bonus Tip: Ask Your Coach

Before buying anything, ask your coach or training partners what they recommend. Some gyms have specific gi rules (color, brand, or patch placement), especially if they compete as a team. A quick question can save you money and help you choose wisely.

Final Thoughts

Your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu uniform is more than just clothing—it’s your tool for training, learning, and growing in the art of Jiu Jitsu. Choosing the right gi doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on fit, comfort, and quality, and you’ll be ready to step onto the mats with confidence.

As you progress, you’ll learn what suits your style best—whether it’s a lighter gi for speed or a tougher one for durability. Support your training with strength gear like a heavy duty double prong belt, and if you’re exploring striking skills, upgrade your coaching gear with custom made boxing mitts.