How to Choose a Gi for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Complete Beginner's Guide
Why Your First Uniform Matters So Much
Your journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) begins with your first step onto the mats and choosing your first uniform — the gi (often called a kimono). This choice carries far more significance than might appear at first glance. The gi isn't just clothing; it's a fundamental tool for learning and practicing BJJ.
Unlike No-Gi grappling, where combat is built on speed and body control, gi training revolves around grips on the jacket and pants. These grips are used for throws, chokes, joint locks, and controlling your opponent.
Training in the gi intentionally slows down the pace of combat. The friction of the fabric and the possibility for numerous grips create a more methodical and positional game. For beginners, this is a huge advantage: it reduces the influence of pure athletic qualities like explosive power and speed, bringing technique to the foreground. This creates an environment where you can learn more consciously, analyze positions, and understand the mechanics of movements rather than simply reacting to your opponent's actions. Thus, choosing a gi is your first strategic decision that determines the very environment of your learning.
The Three Pillars of Proper Selection: Comfort, Durability, Mobility
Your first gi selection should be based on three key principles that directly impact training quality and progress speed.
Comfort
A poorly fitting, overly stiff, or hot gi becomes a constant distraction. It can chafe your skin, cause overheating, and prevent you from focusing on your instructor's guidance. A properly fitted gi should feel like a second skin, providing freedom of movement and allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the learning process.
Durability
BJJ training subjects gear to enormous stress: constant pulling, friction against mats, fabric stretching. A quality gi made from durable material with reinforced seams is an investment that will withstand hundreds of hours on the mats. Cheap and low-quality alternatives may tear within just a few months, leading to additional expenses and disappointment.
Mobility
A gi shouldn't be too tight or baggy. An overly tight gi restricts movement, interfering with proper technique execution and defense. A too loose and baggy gi not only gives your opponent an unfair advantage in grips but may also be prohibited in competitions according to International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) rules.
How a Properly Fitted Gi Protects You and Your Training Partners
Beyond its primary function as a grappling tool, the gi serves an important protective role. The dense fabric protects skin from scrapes, scratches, and burns that are inevitable when in contact with mats. Additionally, the gi serves as a hygienic barrier between you and your training partners. A clean and well-maintained gi isn't just a matter of personal hygiene but also shows respect for the gym, instructor, and teammates who share the mats with you. Improper care can lead to bacterial growth and the spread of skin infections, making gi cleanliness an integral part of BJJ culture.
Anatomy of a Gi - What Your Future "Armor" Consists Of
A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gi consists of three main parts: the jacket, pants, and belt. Each element has its own construction features and materials that affect functionality and durability.
Jacket
The jacket is the most complex and important element of the gi, where most grips are made.
Lapel
This is the dense part of the jacket that plays a key role in numerous chokes and control techniques. Modern gi collars typically have filling made from vulcanized rubber (EVA foam) rather than cotton. Rubber filling makes the collar more durable, doesn't absorb sweat, dries faster, and prevents bacterial growth. Collar thickness and width are strictly regulated in competitions: thickness shouldn't exceed 1.3 cm, and width shouldn't exceed 5 cm.
Weave
This is the main parameter of the jacket, determining its weight, strength, texture, and durability. There are several types of weaving that will be detailed in the next section.
Cut
BJJ gis have a more fitted and shortened cut compared to traditional judo gis. The jacket is shorter and the sleeves are narrower, providing better fit and leaving less excess fabric for opponents to grip.
Reinforcements
A sign of quality gi is the presence of reinforcements in maximum stress zones. These include triple seams and additional fabric layers in the armpit area, shoulders, and side splits of the jacket. These reinforcements significantly extend the gi's lifespan.
Pants
BJJ pants must be simultaneously strong and lightweight, providing freedom of movement.
Materials
Most commonly, pants are made from two types of fabric: Cotton Twill or Ripstop.
Ripstop is a lightweight fabric with thicker reinforcing thread woven into the structure, creating a characteristic square pattern. It's very tear-resistant and lightweight. However, ripstop can be more slippery when wet and less breathable than cotton.
Cotton Twill (including dense "duck canvas") is a more traditional, soft, and comfortable material. It's heavier than ripstop and more prone to shrinkage, but many prefer it for comfort.
Reinforcements
The most worn part of pants is the knees. Therefore, all quality gis have this area reinforced with a double layer of fabric extending from mid-thigh to shin.
Drawstring System
The waistband on pants is an important element for comfortable fit. It can be made as a traditional flat cotton string or a more modern round elastic cord (bungee cord). The number of loops through which the string is threaded also matters. More loops (usually 4 to 6) distribute tension more evenly and secure the pants more reliably.
Belt
The belt not only holds the jacket but also symbolizes the athlete's rank and experience.
Function and Ranks
BJJ uses the following rank system for adults, designated by belt color: white, blue, purple, brown, and black. For beginners, the first belt is always white.
Requirements
According to rules, belt width should be 4 to 5 cm. Length is selected individually: the belt should wrap twice around the waist over the jacket and tie with a double knot. After tying, the free ends of the belt should be 20 to 30 cm long. For children, end lengths of 10 cm are acceptable.
The Heart of the Jacket - Understanding Weave Types
The jacket's weave type is perhaps the most important and most confusing characteristic of a gi for beginners. It directly affects weight, strength, comfort, and even tactical properties of the uniform.
Decoding the Code: What is GSM?
Before discussing weaves, it's necessary to understand what GSM means. This abbreviation stands for "Grams per Square Meter" and is an indicator of fabric density, not the total weight of the entire gi. Two A2-sized gis made from fabric with different GSM will have different weights.
Lightweight gi
Usually has a density of 350-450 GSM. Such gis are ideal for competitions where every gram matters, for training in hot climates, and for those who prefer maximum mobility.
Mid-weight gi
Density around 550 GSM. This is a universal option offering a good balance between durability and comfort.
Cut
BJJ gis have a more fitted and shortened cut compared to traditional judo gis. The jacket is shorter and the sleeves are narrower, providing better fit and leaving less excess fabric for opponents to grip.
Heavyweight gi
Density of 750 GSM and higher. These gis are maximally durable, and their fabric is harder for opponents to grip. However, they're very heavy, hot, and can restrict movement.
Weave Classification: From Light Start to Heavy Armor
There are four main types of weaving, knowledge of which will help make an informed choice.
Single Weave
The most basic, lightweight, and inexpensive type of weaving with smooth texture.
Pros: Low price, light weight, and softness make it comfortable for first training sessions, especially in hot weather.
Cons: This is the least durable option. The fabric stretches easily when wet, shrinks significantly after washing, and is very easy for opponents to grip.
Verdict for beginners: Acceptable budget option for the first few months, but be prepared for quick replacement as it wears out.
Pearl Weave
Currently the absolute market standard — over 80% of all gis are made from this weave. Its texture resembles scattered small pearls. Density usually varies from 350 to 550 GSM.
Pros: Offers the ideal balance between light weight and high strength. It's durable, dries quickly, and most importantly, gives minimal shrinkage compared to other types.
Cons: Quality can vary significantly among different manufacturers. Poor-quality pearl weave can be stiff and rough to the touch.
Verdict for beginners: Most recommended choice. Pearl Weave is the modern gold standard offering the best balance of price, comfort, durability, and practicality for long-term use. This is a gi that will reliably serve from white to blue belt and beyond.
Double Weave
The thickest, heaviest, and strongest weave, essentially consisting of two fabric layers. Very similar to judo gis. Density starts from 700-750 GSM.
Pros: Maximum durability. Such a gi is extremely difficult to grip and hold.
Cons: Very heavy, hot, expensive, and can noticeably restrict movement.
Verdict for beginners: Categorically not recommended. This is a specialized choice for experienced athletes or judokas transitioning to BJJ.
The market evolution from heavy and expensive Gold and Double Weave to Pearl Weave dominance reflects not just technological progress but the commercialization and growth of the sport's accessibility. Pearl Weave's emergence created the perfect mass-market product: strong enough for serious training, light enough for comfort and competition weigh-ins, and most importantly, affordable enough for the huge number of beginners and hobbyists. This technological shift democratized access to quality gear and became one of the drivers of BJJ's worldwide popularity growth.
Other Materials and Processing
Ripstop
As mentioned, mainly used for pants. Ripstop jackets are ultra-light but prohibited by IBJJF in competitions.
Exotic Materials
Some brands offer gis made from hemp or bamboo. Hemp is four times stronger than cotton and has antibacterial properties, while bamboo is very soft and hardly shrinks. These are premium and expensive options.
Importance of Processing (Sanforization)
Two gis with identical weave and GSM can behave very differently after washing. Quality brands use pre-shrinking processes (sanforization or "pre-shrunk"). This means the fabric has undergone special treatment to minimize further shrinkage. Although even such gis shrink slightly, this effect is significantly less than untreated fabric.
Most Important - Finding the Perfect Size and Fit
Choosing the right size is the most crucial stage of gi purchasing. A mistake here can make even the most expensive gi unusable.
Decoding the Size Chart
BJJ uses a standardized but flexible sizing system.
Main System:
A (Adult): Men's/unisex sizes, from A0 (smallest) to A6 (largest)
F (Female): Women's sizes, usually from F0 to F5. They have special cut accounting for female anatomy (narrower shoulders, more room in hip area)
M or Y (Kids/Youth): Children's sizes, from M000 to M4
Intermediate Sizes: Many brands offer intermediate sizes for non-standard figures, significantly simplifying selection:
L (Long/Tall): For tall and thin (e.g., A2L has A3 length but A2 width)
S (Short): For short and stocky (e.g., A3S has A2 length but A3 width)
H (Husky): For stocky and heavy (e.g., A2H has A2 length but A3 or A4 width)
Step-by-Step Self-Measurement Instructions
There are four main types of weaving, knowledge of which will help make an informed choice.
Key rule: Size charts vary significantly among different brands. Never buy a gi based on the size of your old gi from another manufacturer. Always check the specific brand and model chart you plan to buy.
Step 1: Measure height and weight. These are the main parameters used in 99% of size tables.
Step 2: Take additional measurements (optional but recommended). For maximum accuracy, measure chest circumference, waist, arm length from shoulder to wrist, and leg length along inner seam.
Step 3: Compare data with brand chart. Carefully study the manufacturer's website chart. If your parameters are on the border between two sizes, the overwhelming majority of experts and experienced practitioners advise choosing the larger size. Shrinking a gi slightly is easier than trying to train in one that's too small.
How Should the Perfect Gi Sit?
After the gi arrives, it needs proper fitting, remembering future shrinkage. Here are the requirements (many based on IBJJF rules):
Jacket: The jacket hem should reach the upper part of the thighs. It shouldn't be too tight in the shoulders or hang loosely on the torso.
Sleeves: Extend your arms straight in front of you parallel to the floor. Jacket cuffs should be no more than 5 cm from the wrist bone. Sleeve width at the cuff should allow you to freely insert four fingers inside.
Pants: Pant leg length should be no higher than 5 cm above the ankle bone. You should be able to freely squat and raise your knees high without feeling the pants restrict movement.
Practical Test: Put on the gi and move in it: do several squats, arm and leg swings, bends. Make sure nothing pinches or pulls anywhere.
The Inevitable Factor: Shrinkage
Understanding the shrinkage process is what distinguishes a successful purchase from an unsuccessful one. Almost all gis made from 100% cotton shrink, especially after the first few washes, and this is normal. Shrinkage can be 3-5% or more. Even gis marked "pre-shrunk" still give some shrinkage.
This fact dictates the purchase strategy. You cannot buy a gi that fits perfectly "out of the box." Such a gi will become too small after the first wash. The correct approach is to buy a gi that initially fits "slightly oversized." For example, sleeves can be 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) longer than the wrist, and pant legs can be slightly longer than necessary. After several washes in cold water and air drying, it should "shrink" to the ideal competition size. This process isn't a mistake but part of customizing the gi to yourself. If the gi is still large after shrinkage, it can be additionally "shrunk" by washing in warm water, but this is a risky method requiring constant monitoring.
Thus, the size selection process isn't a one-time purchase but a two-stage process: "buying the right blank" and "final customization through washing."
Gi Care - How to Extend Your Gear's Life
Proper gi care isn't just a hygiene issue but an economic and medical discipline. Improper care leads to bacterial growth, unpleasant odors, and risk of skin infections for you and your partners. Attempts to fix the situation with aggressive washing and drying destroy fabric, cause heavy shrinkage, and force you to buy new gis much sooner.
Washing - Immediately and Correctly
Right After Training: Never leave sweaty, damp gi crumpled in a gym bag. This is ideal environment for bacteria and fungus growth, leading to odors that are almost impossible to remove. If you can't wash the gi immediately, definitely take it out of the bag and hang it to air out.
Water Temperature: Wash gi exclusively in cold water (no higher than 30-40°C, ideally 30°C). Hot water is your gi's main enemy, causing maximum shrinkage of cotton fibers and potentially deforming rubber collar filling.
Detergents: Use mild detergent powder or gel. Categorically avoid bleaches, especially those containing chlorine. They destroy fabric structure, make it brittle, and cause yellowing of white gis.
Washing Process: Always wash gi inside out. This helps preserve color, patches, and fabric appearance. Don't wash white gi with colored items. Use delicate wash cycle with minimal spin (no more than 600 RPM) to reduce mechanical stress on fabric.
Drying - Natural Only
No Dryer Machines: Machine drying is the fastest way to irreversibly "shrink" and ruin your gi. High temperature is devastating for cotton.
Proper Drying: Immediately after washing, spread out the gi and hang it on wide hangers. Dry in well-ventilated room or outside in shade. Avoid direct sunlight as UV rays gradually destroy fabric fibers and cause fading.
Fighting Odor and Stains
Odor Neutralization: If odor appears, an effective home remedy is pre-soaking the gi for a couple hours in cold water with a cup of white vinegar added. Vinegar kills bacteria and neutralizes odors, after which the gi can be washed normally.
Whitening White Gi: If white gi has grayed or yellowed over time, gentle methods can be used. Soaking in solution with laundry soap, baking soda, or oxygen (not chlorine) bleach can help restore whiteness.
Storage and Ironing
Storage: Store gi only when completely dry. Best on hangers in closet or neatly folded. Never store gi in plastic bag as this prevents air circulation and can lead to mold.
Ironing: Most jiujiteiros don't iron their gis. But if necessary, do it when gi is still slightly damp, from inside out and on low temperature to avoid damaging fabric and patches.
Final Recommendations
Choosing your first gi is an important and exciting event. Summarizing all information, we can create a clear action plan to help avoid common mistakes.
Brief Summary of Key Steps:
Determine Priorities: Honestly assess your budget and how seriously you plan to do BJJ.
Choose Weave Type: For the vast majority of beginners, the optimal choice will be a Pearl Weave jacket.
Measure Yourself: Carefully take measurements (height and weight) and find the size chart for exactly the brand and model you want to buy. Don't trust general tables.
Choose Model: Based on your budget and priorities (price, durability, what's included), select one of the recommended models.
Buy with Allowance: Remember shrinkage. Your new gi should be slightly oversized "out of the box."
Care Properly: From day one, wash gi in cold water and air dry. This is the key to its long service.
Remember: Your gi is more than just clothing — it's your training partner, protector, and symbol of your journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Choose wisely, care for it properly, and it will serve you well from white belt to black belt and beyond.