The Ultimate BJJ Gi Guide

A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gi is a traditional martial arts uniform consisting of a jacket (uwagi), pants (zubon), and a belt (obi) that indicates your rank. Unlike casual training clothes, the gi is fundamental to BJJ's identity and technique—it provides grips for throws, chokes, and control positions that define the art.

History and evolution: The BJJ gi descended from the judo gi, which the Gracie family adapted when they developed Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the early 20th century. Over decades, BJJ-specific modifications emerged: tighter cuts to reduce excess fabric for opponents to grip, reinforced stress points for ground grappling, and lighter weaves for comfort during long training sessions. Modern BJJ gis are sophisticated pieces of athletic equipment, engineered specifically for the demands of ground fighting.

Anatomy of a gi:

• Jacket: Features a thick collar (lapel) for grip-based attacks and defence, typically filled with EVA foam or rubber. Sleeves extend to the wrists and must meet IBJJF length requirements. The jacket skirt reaches mid-thigh and includes reinforced stitching at stress points (armpits, shoulders, hem).
• Pants: Include a drawstring waistband (never elastic for competition), reinforced knee patches for durability during guard work, and cuffs that sit just above the ankle bones. Ripstop fabric has become standard for its light weight and tear resistance.
• Belt: Indicates your rank from white (beginner) through blue, purple, brown, to black. Belt width is typically 4-5cm, and proper tying technique is essential etiquette.
• Collar construction: The collar is the most critical component, containing EVA foam or rubber core for rigidity. Collar thickness must be exactly 1.3cm for IBJJF competition, and width must be 5cm.

IBJJF regulations overview: The International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation sets standards that most competitions follow. In late 2024, the IBJJF updated its Uniform Guide with stricter measurements: sleeve and pants tolerance reduced from 5cm to 2cm from the wrist and ankle respectively. Only white, royal blue, and black colours are permitted. Patch placement is strictly regulated, with specific zones allowed for academy logos and sponsor patches. Read the complete IBJJF requirements before purchasing a competition gi.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu divides into two distinct training styles: gi (with the traditional uniform) and no-gi (wearing rash guards and shorts). Each style develops different skills and requires different equipment.

Key differences: Gi training revolves around grip-based techniques—controlling opponents through their collar and sleeves, executing chokes using the gi fabric, and defending against these same attacks. The gi slows the pace, rewards technical precision, and emphasises patience. No-gi eliminates fabric grips, forcing practitioners to control using underhooks, overhooks, and body positioning. The pace accelerates, athleticism becomes more important, and techniques more closely resemble MMA grappling.

Equipment needed: For gi training, you need a gi (£35-300), a belt (usually included), and optionally a rash guard to wear underneath. For no-gi, you need a rash guard (£20-60), grappling shorts or spats (£25-70), and some practitioners add compression shorts for additional coverage.

When to train each style: Most BJJ gyms offer more gi classes than no-gi classes each week, and beginners typically start with gi training. The gi teaches fundamental grips, timing, and patience that translate well to no-gi later. However, no-gi has gained significant ground in the last decade, especially at the professional level. Many practitioners train both styles, with most gyms offering multiple sessions of each weekly. If you're interested in MMA or prefer a faster pace, you might prioritise no-gi. If you value traditional BJJ or competition under IBJJF rules, gi training is essential.

UK gyms generally maintain a gi-focused schedule whilst offering dedicated no-gi sessions 2-3 times weekly. Read our full comparison of gi vs no-gi training to determine which style suits your goals.

Your first gi purchase sets the foundation for your BJJ journey. Make an informed choice by understanding the key factors without overspending on features you don't yet need.

Key factors for beginners:

• Budget: Entry-level gis (£35-60) are adequate for your first 6-12 months of training. Don't invest in premium gis (£180+) until you're certain about long-term commitment. The £80-120 mid-range offers the best balance of quality and value once you're training 3+ times weekly.
• Weave type: Start with pearl weave (450 GSM). It's durable, comfortable, widely available, and sits in the middle of the weight spectrum. Avoid ultra-lightweight competition gis or heavy gold weave for your first purchase.
• Brand: UK brands like Tatami and Progress offer excellent beginner options with reliable sizing and fast delivery. International brands like Fuji, Venum, and Sanabul provide solid budget alternatives through Amazon UK.
• Sizing: Use the A-size system (A0-A6) based on your height and weight. When between sizes, consider whether the gi is pre-shrunk. If not pre-shrunk, size up slightly to account for 2-5cm shrinkage after washing.
• Colour: White is the universal beginner choice—accepted at all academies, required at many gyms for uniformity, and legal for all competitions. Blue and black are alternatives once you understand your academy's culture.

Beginner-specific advice: Resist the temptation to buy the cheapest gi available (£20-30). These ultra-budget options often fail within 2-3 months, creating false economy. Similarly, don't buy expensive gis with features marketed to advanced practitioners—you won't appreciate the differences yet. A simple white pearl weave gi from an established brand is the optimal first purchase.

What to expect to spend in the UK market:

• Budget tier (£35-80): Adequate for beginners or casual training (1-2x weekly). Expect 6-12 months lifespan with proper care. Brands: Sanabul, Elite Sports, Valor, Hawk.
• Mid-range (£80-160): Best balance for regular practitioners (3-4x weekly). Expect 2-3 years lifespan. Brands: Tatami, Progress, Kingz, Scramble, Fuji.
• Premium (£180+): Superior materials and construction for serious competitors or those who simply want the best. Expect 3-5 years lifespan. Brands: Origin (£275), Hyperfly, Shoyoroll, premium Tatami/Progress lines.

Common first-gi mistakes to avoid:

• Buying too large to 'grow into' — gis shrink, and excess fabric gives opponents more grips
• Purchasing non-IBJJF colours (grey, navy, patterns) that limit competition options
• Choosing ultra-lightweight competition gis that won't survive regular training
• Ignoring brand-specific sizing—always check the manufacturer's size chart
• Forgetting to budget for a second gi—you need at least two for regular training to allow washing cycles

Once you understand these basics, explore our top gi recommendations for beginners, or if budget is your primary concern, see the best cheap gis under £60.

Proper sizing is critical—a gi that's too large gives opponents excess fabric to grip, whilst one too small restricts movement and may fail IBJJF inspection. BJJ uses a universal sizing system, but brand variations require careful attention.

Universal A0-A6 sizing system: Adult sizes range from A0 (smallest) through A6 (largest), with approximate correlations to height and weight:

• A0: 5'0"-5'3" (152-160cm), 105-130 lbs (48-59kg)
• A1: 5'3"-5'7" (160-170cm), 135-160 lbs (61-73kg)
• A2: 5'8"-5'11" (173-180cm), 160-180 lbs (73-82kg)
• A3: 5'10"-6'2" (178-188cm), 190-220 lbs (86-100kg)
• A4: 6'1"-6'4" (185-193cm), 215-245 lbs (98-111kg)
• A5: 6'2"-6'6" (188-198cm), 245-275 lbs (111-125kg)
• A6: 6'4"+ (193cm+), 275+ lbs (125kg+)

Special sizes: Many brands now offer 'L' (Long) sizes like A1L, A2L, A3L, which provide the weight dimensions of the base size with the height of the next size up. These suit tall, lean athletes. Similarly, 'H' (Husky) sizes like A2H accommodate stockier builds—standard height with more generous cut through the chest and waist.

Brand-specific sizing differences: Don't assume all A2s fit identically. Origin gis run slightly smaller and more tapered than Tatami. Fuji tends towards generous sizing. Kingz offers consistent sizing across models. Always consult the specific brand's size chart, and when possible, read customer reviews mentioning fit for your body type.

Pre-shrunk vs shrink-to-fit: Pre-shrunk gis have been pre-treated to minimise shrinkage, though they may still shrink 1-2cm after the first few washes. Shrink-to-fit gis are sold slightly oversized with the expectation that they'll shrink 3-5cm to reach their final dimensions. If purchasing shrink-to-fit, size up and follow the manufacturer's shrinking instructions carefully—usually cold water wash and air dry for the first 3-5 washes. Read our detailed comparison to understand which type suits your needs.

Body type considerations: Standard A-sizes assume average proportions. If you have unusual measurements, specialised guidance helps:

• Tall athletes: Look for L-sizes or brands known for generous length (Fuji, Origin). See our tall athlete guide.
• Short and stocky: H-sizes or brands with roomier cuts (Tatami, Kingz) work well. Read our short and stocky guide.
• Plus-size: A4-A6 sizes are available, but fit varies significantly by brand. Explore our plus-size recommendations.
• Women: Some brands offer F-sizes (Female cut) with adjustments for hip-to-waist ratio and chest fit. See our complete women's guide.
• Kids: Children use M-sizes (M00-M4) or K-sizes, with rapid growth requiring regular replacement. Read our kids' gi guide.

For step-by-step measuring instructions, use our measuring guide, or consult our interactive size chart for brand-specific recommendations. Understanding how much gis shrink prevents costly sizing mistakes.

Gi fabric construction dramatically affects weight, durability, comfort, and price. Understanding weave types helps you choose a gi suited to your training style and climate.

Pearl weave (450-550 GSM): At least 80% of current BJJ gis use pearl weave, making it the industry standard. The fabric uses a distinctive grid pattern that balances strength with breathability. Pearl weave gis generally come in 350-550 GSM, with 350 GSM used for ultralight tournament gis, 450 GSM for premium all-purpose training gis, and 550 GSM for heavyweight training gis. Pearl weave is cheaper than gold weave, comes in various weights, shrinks minimally, and is very durable. It's the recommended choice for most practitioners.

Single weave (300-450 GSM): The lightest and least expensive weave, single weave creates soft, supple fabric that's extremely comfortable. However, the looser weave structure makes it less durable than pearl weave—expect visible wear on lapels and sleeves within 6-9 months of heavy training. Single weave suits beginners on tight budgets, hot climates, or ultra-lightweight competition gis. Not recommended as your only gi if training 3+ times weekly.

Gold weave (650-750 GSM): Gold weave produces a gi that's stronger than single weave but lighter than double weave. It's very durable and comfortable, and the thick material can be harder to grip than thinner weaves. However, gold weave tends to shrink considerably more than tighter weaves like pearl weave. Gold weave suits practitioners who want maximum durability and don't mind extra weight. Less popular than pearl weave in modern BJJ.

Double weave (900+ GSM): The heaviest and most durable weave, traditionally favoured in judo. Double weave creates an extremely thick, stiff gi that resists wear and provides minimal grip surface for opponents. However, the weight (often 2.5-3kg total) makes it uncomfortable in warm weather and impractical for weight-class competition. Rarely used in modern BJJ except by old-school practitioners.

GSM (Grams per Square Metre) explained: GSM measures fabric weight, with most BJJ gis ranging from 375-890 GSM. Higher GSM means heavier, more durable fabric, but also less breathable and more difficult to dry. The sweet spot for year-round training in UK climate is 450-550 GSM pearl weave.

Cotton vs blends: Traditional gis use 100% cotton for the jacket, offering excellent durability and breathability. Modern gis sometimes incorporate ripstop (a reinforced grid pattern) or add small amounts of synthetic fibres for quick-drying properties. For pants, ripstop fabric has become standard—significantly lighter than cotton twill whilst maintaining excellent durability. The reinforced grid pattern prevents tears from spreading, critical for knee reinforcement areas.

For detailed technical comparisons, explore our complete weave guide, or see our weave comparison chart. Understanding gi materials and durability factors helps you evaluate long-term value.

The UK BJJ gi market features a mix of domestic brands offering fast delivery and excellent customer service, alongside international manufacturers with global reputations. Understanding brand positioning helps you identify quality at your budget.

UK-based brands: Tatami Fightwear (headquartered in Redditch) revolutionised gi aesthetics without sacrificing function, bringing European design sensibility to BJJ gear. They sponsor many top-level athletes and events, and offer next-day delivery across the UK. Progress Jiu Jitsu (based in Portsmouth) focuses on self-improvement and growth, producing the M6 series worn by IBJJF World Champions. Both brands provide exceptional customer service and understand UK sizing preferences.

Premium international brands: Origin (USA) manufactures gis entirely in America with premium materials, retailing at £275+. Hyperfly (founded 2011) focuses on lightweight gis and sponsors elite competitors including the Mendes brothers. Shoyoroll has earned status as the luxury brand of BJJ, known for spectacular designs, exceptional quality, and high-profile partnerships with champions like Marcus Buchecha Almeida and Leandro Lo.

Mid-range stalwarts: Kingz (San Diego, founded 2011) was the official sponsor of the 2024 European Jiu-Jitsu Championships, delivering competition-ready performance at accessible prices (£130-180). Scramble (UK) is trusted by IBJJF world champion Joao Miyao and UK BJJ legend Bradley Hill, offering reliable quality at £85-110. Fuji Sports (founded 1969 by 8th Dan Judo black belt Frank Hatashita) has supplied apparel to over 18 million martial arts practitioners globally and is the official outfitter of top Judo, BJJ, and MMA organisations worldwide.

Budget-friendly options: Valor Fightwear delivers quality construction at accessible prices (£60-90). Venum (launched by Franck Dupuis in 2004) offers entry-level gis whilst maintaining the brand's combat sports reputation. Sanabul has become the best-selling budget brand on Amazon UK, trusted by IBJJF Champion Guilherme Vasconcelos and UFC fighter Gilbert Burns.

Brand comparison table:

For detailed reviews, see our brand-specific guides: Tatami, Progress, Hyperfly, Fuji, Origin, Kingz, Venum, Scramble, and Valor. For comprehensive comparisons, read our complete brand overview or see our top UK picks across all categories.

Proper gi care extends lifespan dramatically, prevents odours, and maintains appearance. A £100 gi with excellent care outlasts a £150 gi that's poorly maintained.

Post-training care basics: Never leave your gi in your gym bag. Bacteria multiply rapidly in the warm, damp environment, creating permanent odours that become nearly impossible to remove. Immediately after training, remove your gi from your bag and either wash it or hang it to air dry before washing later. If you can't wash immediately, hang the gi in a well-ventilated area—never leave it crumpled.

Washing quick tips:

• Cold water only: Hot water breaks down fabric fibres, causes excessive shrinkage, and sets stains. Always wash gis in cold water (30°C maximum).
• No fabric softener: Fabric softener coats fibres, reducing absorbency and actually attracting bacteria. It also degrades elastic in waistbands.
• Turn inside out: Protects outer fabric and any embroidery from abrasion during the wash cycle.
• Wash promptly: Don't let sweaty gis sit for days. Wash within 24 hours of training when possible.
• Use sport-specific detergent: Products like Defense Soap or Rockin' Green Athletic Wear Detergent are formulated to remove bacteria and prevent odours without damaging technical fabrics. Defense Soap contains tea tree and eucalyptus essential oils for antimicrobial protection. Rockin' Green uses natural, biodegradable ingredients with strong cleaning power.

Drying best practice: Air dry only. Tumble dryers destroy gis through a combination of heat damage (breaking down fibres), excessive shrinkage (making the gi unwearable), and mechanical stress (wearing out stitching). Hang your gi on a clothes horse or washing line in a well-ventilated area. Expect 8-24 hours drying time depending on weave weight and weather. Placing the gi near (not on) a radiator in winter can accelerate drying without heat damage.

Odour prevention fundamentals: Persistent gi odour (that doesn't wash out) indicates bacteria embedded in fabric fibres. Prevention is easier than cure: wash immediately after training, never leave damp gis in bags, ensure complete drying between uses, and use antibacterial detergent. If odour develops, try soaking the gi in cold water with white vinegar (1 cup per load) for 30 minutes before washing, or use specialised odour eliminators like Defense Soap.

How long does a gi last? With proper care, expect these lifespans: budget gis (£35-80) last 6-12 months with 2-3x weekly training; mid-range gis (£80-160) last 2-3 years with regular training; premium gis (£180+) last 3-5 years or more. Training frequency matters significantly—a gi worn 5x weekly wears out twice as fast as one worn 2x weekly, regardless of price.

For detailed instructions, see how to wash your gi, optimal drying methods, removing stubborn odours, tackling stains, and maximising gi lifespan. Use our maintenance checklist to establish a care routine.

IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) rules govern most BJJ competitions worldwide, including major UK events. Understanding these requirements prevents disqualification and ensures your gi investment is competition-legal.

Colour requirements: Only three colours are permitted: white, royal blue, and black. The entire gi (jacket and pants) must be the same colour—you cannot mix white pants with a blue jacket. Navy blue, grey, patterns, and other colours will result in immediate disqualification. Some local UK competitions may be more lenient, but always verify before assuming.

Key measurement requirements (updated 2024): The IBJJF reduced tolerance in late 2024, making requirements stricter:

• Sleeves: With arm extended forward parallel to the ground, sleeve edge must be no more than 2cm from the wrist (reduced from 5cm). Sleeve opening must be at least 7cm wide at full extension.
• Pants: Pants hem must reach no more than 2cm above the ankle bone/tibial malleolus (reduced from 5cm).
• Collar: Must be 1.3cm thick and 5cm wide. EVA foam or similar materials are permitted if they meet rigidity standards.
• Jacket length: Must cover the thighs and reach below the competitor's hands when arms are extended down by their sides.

The IBJJF now provides an official Gi Checker tool to help athletes measure their gis for compliance before competition.

Patch placement rules: IBJJF strictly regulates where patches can be placed on the gi. Specific zones are designated for academy logos (typically shoulders and upper legs) and sponsor patches (chest, back, sleeves). Patches outside approved zones result in disqualification. The total area of patches is also limited. See our complete patch placement guide before adding any customisation.

Competition gi checklist: Before competing, verify: gi colour is white, royal blue, or black (no navy or grey); sleeves reach within 2cm of wrists when arm extended; pants reach within 2cm of ankle bones; collar is firm and meets thickness requirements; all patches are in approved zones; gi shows no excessive wear, tears, or loose stitching. Use our full competition checklist to ensure you're prepared.

Competition-specific buying advice: If you compete regularly, invest in a dedicated competition gi rather than using your training gi. Competition gis are cut to precise measurements with margin to spare, use lightweight construction to minimise weigh-in weight, and remain pristine without the wear patterns of daily training gis. See our top competition gi recommendations.

For complete details, read the full IBJJF requirements guide and detailed colour rules.

This guide contains extensive information across eight major topic clusters. Use these navigation paths to jump directly to your area of interest:

Sizing & Fit: Start with our size chart if you're ready to buy. If you need help taking measurements, see how to measure yourself. Concerned about shrinkage? Read our shrinkage guide and preshrunk vs shrink-to-fit comparison.

Materials & Construction: Learn about different weave types, compare weave options side-by-side, understand gi materials, and evaluate durability factors.

Brand Reviews: Compare all major brands or read specific reviews: Tatami, Progress, Hyperfly, Fuji, Origin, Kingz, Venum, Scramble, Valor. See curated selections: best overall UK picks, best for beginners, best for competition, best budget options.

Price & Value: Understand budget gi considerations, find current UK sales, learn where to buy in the UK, evaluate whether expensive gis are worth it, and compare premium vs budget options.

Demographics: Specialised advice for women, kids, tall athletes, short and stocky builds, and plus-size practitioners.

Care & Maintenance: Master washing techniques, drying methods, stain removal, odour elimination, maximise gi lifespan, and use our maintenance checklist.

Rules & Competition: Understand colour rules, study IBJJF requirements, learn patch placement rules, and prepare with our competition checklist.

Comparisons: Understand gi vs no-gi differences, learn how BJJ gis differ from judo gis, and see how they compare to karate gis.

UK grapplers have excellent options for purchasing gis, from specialist BJJ retailers to general online marketplaces. Understanding where to shop saves money and ensures reliable service.

Top UK BJJ retailers:

• Made4Fighters: Europe's largest martial arts store with thousands of BJJ products available for next-day delivery. Free UK delivery on orders over £80, free returns on all UK mainland orders. Returns processed within 7-14 days. Extensive selection from Venum, Kingz, Scramble, and more.
• Tatami Fightwear (official site): Direct from the UK manufacturer with next-day delivery available. Frequent sales and clearance deals make premium gis accessible. Excellent customer service and sizing advice.
• Progress Jiu Jitsu (official site): Same-day dispatch with next-day UK delivery options. Direct manufacturer pricing with regular promotions. UK sizing and support.
• Fight Equipment UK: Established retailer with comprehensive selection and knowledgeable staff. Regular promotions and student discounts.
• Valor Fightwear (official site): UK and European stockist offering premium and exclusive BJJ gis, no-gi fightwear, and accessories.

Amazon UK: Offers the widest selection of budget gis (Sanabul, Elite Sports, Hawk, and more) with Prime delivery and easy returns. Verify seller authenticity—stick to 'Sold by Amazon' or official brand stores. Read customer reviews with photos to assess quality. Prices start at £22.99, making it ideal for budget-conscious beginners.

Shipping considerations for international brands: When ordering from US-based brands (Origin, Hyperfly, Shoyoroll), factor in international shipping costs (£15-40), delivery time (7-21 days), and potential customs charges. Orders over £135 may incur VAT (20%) and handling fees. Some brands offer UK distributors with faster delivery—always check before ordering direct from the US.

UK-specific pricing notes: Prices shown on international websites are typically in USD excluding VAT. UK retailers include VAT (20%) in displayed prices. When comparing prices, convert USD to GBP and add 20% to understand the true cost. Import duty generally doesn't apply to gis (classified as sporting equipment), but VAT and courier handling fees do.

Returns and exchange policies: UK retailers typically offer 14-30 day return windows for unworn gis with tags attached. Made4Fighters provides free returns on UK mainland orders. Amazon UK offers 30-day returns with free return shipping via drop-off points. Always check the specific retailer's policy before purchasing, especially for clearance or sale items which may be final sale.

For comprehensive buying advice, see our complete UK buying guide and current UK sales.

Different practitioners have different needs. Use these curated pathways to navigate this guide efficiently:

Complete Beginners (never trained BJJ):

1. Read Gi vs No-Gi overview to understand training styles
2. Learn basic terminology in the 'What is a BJJ Gi?' section above
3. Understand sizing basics and how to measure yourself
4. Choose from best gis for beginners or budget options under £60
5. Learn how to wash and dry your gi properly

Buying First Gi (starting BJJ soon):

1. Check our size chart for your measurements
2. Read 'How to Choose Your First BJJ Gi' section above
3. Understand shrinkage to avoid sizing mistakes
4. Browse recommended beginner gis or best budget picks
5. Learn where to buy in the UK for best prices and delivery

Upgrading Current Gi (training 6+ months):

1. Understand weave types and compare options
2. Evaluate premium vs budget value
3. Read brand comparisons and specific reviews
4. Browse top UK picks across categories
5. Consider competition gis if you're competing

Preparing for Competition:

1. Study IBJJF requirements and colour rules
2. Learn patch placement regulations
3. Choose from top competition gis
4. Use our competition checklist before the event
5. Understand which weaves are competition-legal

Looking for Specific Demographics:

• Women: Complete women's guide
• Kids: Children's sizing and recommendations
• Tall: Tall athlete guide
• Stocky: Short and stocky guide
• Plus-size: Plus-size recommendations