BJJ Wiki › Best BJJ Gi Guide: How to Choose the Right One

Best BJJ Gi Guide: How to Choose the Right One

Your gi (kimono) is your most essential piece of BJJ gear. A good gi fits well, survives hundreds of washes, and doesn't limit your movement. This guide explains what to look for and recommends options at every price point.

Contents

    Our Picks

    Best for Beginners

    Venum Contender Gi — durable, affordable (~$70), comes in all sizes. Great first gi with a comfortable cut and single-weave fabric that holds up to heavy training.

    Best Mid-Range

    Fuji All-Around Gi — a community favorite for years. Pearl weave, preshrunk, consistent sizing. ~$90–$110.

    Best Premium

    Scramble Athlete Gi — Japanese-cut, lightweight pearl weave, excellent stitching. Ideal for competitors. ~$150–$180.

    Best No-Gi

    Rashguard + Spats combo. No standard recommendation — personal preference. Look for durable stretch fabric and flatlock stitching.

    FAQ

    What size gi should I buy for BJJ?

    Most brands use A0–A5 sizing where A0 is smallest. Gis shrink after washing — choose your size based on the brand's specific chart. When in doubt, size up for shrinkage allowance.

    What is the difference between single and double weave gis?

    Single weave gis are lighter and better for hot gyms and competition. Double weave gis are heavier and more durable. Pearl weave (most popular) is a middle ground — light, durable, and comfortable.

    Are expensive BJJ gis worth it?

    Above $100 USD, diminishing returns apply. Mid-range gis ($80–$150) are usually sufficient for all training needs. Very expensive gis ($200+) are often fashion items with no meaningful performance advantage.

    Take your BJJ to the next level.

    Training tips, new technique breakdowns, and competition insights — weekly, free.

    Related Guides

    BJJ Belt System BJJ Terminology BJJ Rules Training Tips Best BJJ Gi Guide BJJ vs Wrestling

    Where to Buy BJJ Gi — Top Shops by Country

    🇺🇸 USA

    BJJHQ Scramble Tatami Fightwear Hyperfly Origin

    🇧🇷 Brazil

    Keiko Raca Vulkan Oss Clothing

    🇬🇧 UK / Europe

    Tatami Fightwear UK Scramble UK Kingz Kimonos

    🇯🇵 Japan

    Isami Bull Terrier Alma

    🇦🇺 Australia

    Kingz Australia Progress Jiu Jitsu

    Common Mistakes in Best Gi Guide

    Rushing the Setup

    Attempting to finish before proper mechanics are in place results in failed attempts and positional loss. Prioritize position before submission.

    Using Strength Over Technique

    Muscling through setups creates bad habits and fails against stronger or more skilled opponents. Focus on leverage and angles.

    Skipping Drilling

    Techniques only become available in live rolling after extensive drilling. Regular repetition builds the muscle memory needed for execution under pressure.

    Ignoring Defensive Reactions

    Every technique has common counters. Learn the most frequent defensive reactions and have follow-up attacks ready.

    Training Tips for Best Gi Guide

    Shadow Drill at Full Speed

    Perform the technique slowly, then progressively increase to competition speed while maintaining crisp mechanics. Video yourself to catch form breakdowns.

    Use a Skilled Partner

    Training with a partner who can give realistic resistance and honest feedback accelerates technical development more than repetitions with a passive uke.

    Isolate Weak Phases

    Break the technique into phases and identify which phase breaks down under pressure. Spend disproportionate drilling time on that specific phase.

    Compete in Tournaments

    Competition reveals real weaknesses that controlled training obscures. Even white belts benefit from early competitive experience.