Kingz BJJ Gi Review: Premium Quality for Dedicated Grapplers

Kingz Kimonos was founded in 2011 by Bruno Munduruca, an industry pioneer who had been involved in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu apparel since before 2000. Bruno launched Brazil's first online BJJ store, MMA Gear, before establishing Fighters Market in 2008 from his garage in San Diego, California. Three years later, he created Kingz with a clear vision: deliver premium-quality gis at prices that don't exclude dedicated grapplers.

The brand philosophy centres on competition-focused design with minimalist aesthetics. Unlike brands that lean heavily into bold graphics or elaborate embroidery, Kingz favours clean lines and understated branding — allowing the quality of construction to speak for itself. This approach has resonated with practitioners who prioritise performance over flash.

Kingz holds a strong position in the mid-to-premium tier of the BJJ gi market. The brand's reputation in the global BJJ community is reinforced by its extensive athlete sponsorship programme, which includes world-class competitors across multiple weight divisions and belt levels. With over 40 elite athletes representing the brand, Kingz has proven its gis can withstand the demands of international competition.

For UK practitioners, Kingz maintains a dedicated UK website (kingz.co.uk) with pricing in pounds sterling, alongside availability through established retailers like Made4Fighters, which offers next-day delivery options. The brand also operates Kingz Europe for continental customers, ensuring accessible distribution across the region.

Kingz structures its product line to serve practitioners at every level, from first-time students to seasoned competitors. Understanding how each model fits into the brand's hierarchy helps you identify which gi matches your training needs and budget.

Entry-Level: The One V2
The One represents Kingz's philosophy that "Jiu Jitsu is for everyONE" — regardless of background or wallet size. Priced at £80, this 400 GSM pearl weave gi delivers durability and IBJJF-legal construction at a price point that competes with budget brands. Despite its accessible cost, The One features triple-reinforced stitching, heat-resistant vulcanised rubber collar insert, and soft cotton seam taping. It's available in white, black, and blue.

Mid-Range: Balistico 4.0 and Nano 3.0
The Balistico 4.0 (£120) serves competitors who need maximum durability. Its 480 GSM pearl weave jacket incorporates Coolmax® lining for moisture management, whilst the 8 oz polyester ripstop trousers feature "NO-Grip" technology — ultralight ripstop sewn inside the sleeves to make grips harder to establish. This model has a distinct cut compared to other Kingz gis, offering a more tailored fit.

The Nano 3.0 (£90) takes the opposite approach: at 380 GSM for the jacket and 270 GSM for the ripstop trousers, it's Kingz's lightest offering. Competition-focused grapplers who need to make weight whilst maintaining IBJJF compliance consistently choose this model. Its minimalist construction doesn't compromise durability — the Nano line has been one of Kingz's best-sellers for years.

Limited Editions and Collaborations
Kingz periodically releases artist collaborations and limited edition colourways, such as The One V2 Black/Green edition. These typically feature unique embroidery or panel colours whilst maintaining the technical specifications of the standard models. Check the sale section for discounted previous editions.

Additional Product Categories
Beyond gis, Kingz produces no-gi gear including rashguards and fight shorts, training accessories, and casual apparel. However, the brand built its reputation on kimono quality, and that remains its core focus.

Let's examine the three core Kingz models in detail, breaking down the specifications and real-world performance that define each gi's character.

Kingz uses standard gi sizing (A0-A5) with 'L' (long) and 'H' (husky) variations for different body proportions. However, understanding how Kingz sizes run compared to other brands — and how different models within the Kingz line vary — prevents costly sizing mistakes.

General Fit Characteristics
Kingz gis typically run true to size when following the brand's official size chart available on kingz.co.uk and at UK retailers like Made4Fighters. The brand provides different size charts for each model, which reflects genuine differences in cut and pattern. Check the specific chart for your chosen model rather than assuming all Kingz gis size identically.

Multiple reviewers report that Kingz gis fit "just about perfect straight out of the box" when sized according to the chart. A 6'0", 160 lbs practitioner found the A1L (long) size fit ideally for a tall, lean build. For women, one reviewer noted they sized one size larger than Atama female gis (F3 Atama = F2 Kingz), though this may vary by model.

Model-Specific Fit Notes
The Balistico 4.0 has a distinctly different cut compared to The One, Nano, and Comp models. Its more tailored, competition-focused fit means you may need to adjust your size if moving between Kingz models. The Nano series, designed for weight-conscious competitors, tends to fit slightly trimmer than training-focused models.

Comparison to Other Brands
Compared to Tatami, Kingz tends to run slightly longer in the arms for the same size designation. Against Progress, fits are similar though Kingz offers more size variations (L and H options) for accommodating different body types. Fuji gis generally run larger than Kingz — if you wear an A2 in Fuji, you might find an A1L in Kingz provides a better fit. Always cross-reference measurements rather than relying on size labels alone. See our comprehensive size chart guide for detailed comparisons.

Shrinkage Expectations
Kingz pre-shrinks their gis by 90-95%, which drastically reduces post-wash sizing changes. Multiple reviewers report "minimal shrinkage" even after accidental tumble drying. One long-term user noted that despite "drying in the dryer," they experienced barely noticeable shrinkage, attributing this to Kingz's pre-shrinking process.

The standard advice holds: wash cold, hang dry for maximum lifespan. However, if you need to shrink a gi slightly, a warm wash and medium-low tumble dry for 15-20 minutes will achieve modest reduction without damaging the fabric. Given the pre-shrinking, you should order your actual size rather than sizing up to account for shrinkage. Check our shrinkage guide for washing protocols.

Community Feedback
Across review platforms and BJJ forums, the consistent message is: follow the Kingz size chart for your specific model, and you'll get an accurate fit. Reviewers emphasise that "you don't have to worry about getting a larger size to account for shrinkage — just follow the sizing chart." This reliability in sizing eliminates much of the guesswork that plagues gi purchases.

Kingz has built its reputation on consistent construction quality across price points. After examining multiple models and aggregating feedback from long-term users, several patterns emerge regarding durability, common issues, and overall build quality.

Construction Quality
Reviewers consistently praise Kingz stitching as "top notch." Triple-reinforced stitching appears at all stress points including collar attachment, sleeve cuffs, trouser knees, and side vents. The embroidery quality "really scales up the quality" according to multiple reviewers, with clean, durable application that withstands years of washing without fraying.

Seam finishing demonstrates professional standards even on entry-level models like The One. Overlapped triple-stitched seams on trouser legs and reinforced gussets in the crotch area prevent the splitting and separation common in budget gis. Collar construction receives particular attention — the collar is described as "sturdy and comfortable," with proper density that maintains shape without becoming stiff or uncomfortable.

Material Quality
Fabric consistency across batches appears reliable. Pearl weave jackets demonstrate even weave density without thin spots or irregularities. The collar construction maintains proper stiffness for grip-fighting whilst remaining comfortable against the neck. Cotton drill and ripstop trousers show appropriate weight for their intended use, with ripstop models particularly praised for tear resistance.

Durability Reports
Long-term ownership reviews reveal strong durability. One reviewer used their Kingz gi "on and off for the past few years" without noticing "any signs of ripping or loose threads." Another reported: "Besides the colour fading some I can't find any signs of weakness in this thing. The trousers seem bulletproof and the jacket is holding up well" after several months of intensive testing.

The Balistico 4.0 in particular earns descriptions of "nearly indestructible" from competition-focused reviewers who subject their gis to daily training. However, one reviewer noted "a small hole has appeared on the back of the collar next to the shoulder logo" after extended use, suggesting that whilst durability is generally excellent, no gi is immune to wear in high-stress areas.

Some practitioners caution against ripstop material for everyday training, noting that "any ripstop on the gis I have owned were the first things to wear out or rip." This suggests the Nano 3.0's ultralight construction may be better suited for competition use rather than daily hard training — aligning with its intended design purpose.

Warranty and Returns
Kingz offers returns through their official website and UK retailers. Made4Fighters, a major UK stockist, processes returns within 7-14 days of receipt with a 30-day return window. For warranty information on manufacturing defects, contact Kingz directly through their official channels. UK customers benefit from standard consumer rights protections in addition to any brand-specific warranty terms.

Known Issues
Recurring complaints are minimal. The most common feedback concerns colour fading after extended use — particularly with darker gis. This appears consistent with industry norms rather than a Kingz-specific issue. Some practitioners note that the 10 oz cotton trousers on The One are heavier than preferred, though this reflects a design choice (durability over weight) rather than a defect. For care tips to prevent premature wear, see our gi washing guide.

Understanding where Kingz sits in the UK market's pricing landscape helps determine whether the brand delivers genuine value or simply trades on reputation. Let's examine the numbers across the product line and compare against similar-tier competitors.

Price Range Overview
Kingz UK pricing spans from £80 for The One V2 up to £120 for the Balistico 4.0, with the Nano 3.0 sitting at £90. Limited editions and special colourways typically add £10-20 to the base model price. This positions Kingz solidly in the mid-tier market — above budget brands like Sanabul or Essimo (£40-60), but below premium offerings from Origin or Shoyoroll (£160-220+).

Value for Money Assessment
The One V2 at £80 represents exceptional value. Comparable construction quality from brands like Tatami (Estilo 7.0, £95) or Progress (M6 MK4, £100) typically costs £15-20 more. You're getting IBJJF-legal construction, pre-shrunk fabric, and triple-reinforced stitching at a price point that competes with genuinely budget brands — but with noticeably superior quality.

The Balistico 4.0 at £120 occupies competitive mid-premium territory. Fuji's All-Around BJJ Gi costs similar money (£115-125) but uses heavier fabric that some find less comfortable. Venum's Elite Light 2.0 (£130) offers comparable competition features. The Balistico's NO-Grip technology and Coolmax lining justify its pricing amongst these alternatives. For detailed comparisons, visit our best brands guide.

The Nano 3.0 at £90 undercuts most ultralight competitors. Scramble's Athlete 4 (£100-110) and Hyperfly's Hyperlyte (£100+) deliver similar weight specifications at higher prices. For competitors who need to make weight, the Nano represents one of the best value ultralight options in the UK market.

UK Pricing: Domestic vs Direct
Purchasing from kingz.co.uk displays prices in pounds sterling and ships from UK stock, eliminating customs concerns. UK retailers like Made4Fighters often match official pricing whilst offering faster delivery options (next-day service available). Ordering from the main kingz.com site (US-based) may incur customs charges and VAT, typically adding 20%+ to the displayed price — making UK sources the smarter choice.

Finding Deals
Kingz runs a clearance section on kingz.co.uk and Made4Fighters regularly features Kingz products in sales. Previous-generation models (Balistico 3.0, Comp 450 V5) often appear at 20-30% discounts when newer versions launch. Signing up for the Kingz UK newsletter provides early access to seasonal sales.

Black Friday (November) and post-Christmas sales (January) typically offer the deepest discounts — 25-30% off is common during these periods. Made4Fighters occasionally runs brand-specific promotions offering 15-20% off Kingz products. Check our current UK gi sales page for active promotions.

Seasonal Patterns
Kingz typically releases updated models in autumn (September-October), which triggers discounts on outgoing versions. Competition season (February-April) sometimes sees targeted promotions on Nano and Balistico models. Summer months (June-August) often feature broader sales across the product line.

Price Comparison with Similar Brands
Against direct competitors:

• Tatami: Similar pricing, with Kingz offering slightly better value at entry-level (The One vs Estilo)
• Progress: Nearly identical pricing structure; choice comes down to fit preference
• Fuji: Kingz costs £10-20 more but delivers superior construction and pre-shrinking
• Venum: Comparable pricing; Venum offers more fashion-forward designs, Kingz focuses on competition functionality
• Scramble: Scramble charges £10-20 premium for similar specifications

For budget-conscious practitioners, see our gi budget guide and cheap gi recommendations.

After examining the full product line, here are our three recommended Kingz models for different use cases, available through UK retailers.

Best Overall: The One V2
For most practitioners — especially those buying their first quality gi or seeking reliable training gear — The One V2 delivers the best balance of quality, price, and versatility. At £80, it costs less than many budget gis whilst offering construction that rivals £100+ models. The 400 GSM pearl weave provides adequate durability for regular training without excessive weight. IBJJF-legal specifications mean it transitions seamlessly from academy training to competition. Pre-shrunk fabric and true-to-size fit eliminate common frustrations with first gi purchases.

The One proves that "entry-level" doesn't require compromising on quality. Whether you're a white belt committing to regular training or an experienced practitioner wanting a dependable backup gi, this model performs. Available from kingz.co.uk and Made4Fighters in white, black, and blue.

Best for Competition: Nano 3.0
Competitors who struggle with weight cuts or simply prefer lightweight gis will appreciate the Nano 3.0's minimalist approach. At 380 GSM jacket and 270 GSM trousers, it's amongst the lightest IBJJF-compliant gis available — every ounce matters when you're on the borderline of a weight class. The £90 price undercuts most ultralight competitors whilst maintaining Kingz's quality standards.

The Nano suits competitors who need a dedicated competition gi rather than daily training gear. Its lighter construction won't withstand the same abuse as heavier models, but for its intended purpose — competition day and light technical drilling — it excels. Fast-drying fabric means it's ready quickly if you're competing multiple times in a weekend. Popular amongst weight-conscious competitors across all belt levels. For more competition gi options, visit our competition gi guide.

Best Value: Balistico 4.0
For practitioners training 5+ times weekly who need a gi that withstands serious punishment, the Balistico 4.0 justifies its £120 price through durability and performance features. The 480 GSM pearl weave with Coolmax lining manages moisture during intense training, whilst NO-Grip sleeve technology provides defensive advantages in grip-fighting exchanges.

The Balistico represents the sweet spot between daily training durability and competition-legal specifications. It's "nearly indestructible" according to multiple reviewers, making it the financially smart choice for high-volume training despite the higher upfront cost. When a gi lasts twice as long as cheaper alternatives, the per-session cost actually decreases. Serious competitors and frequent trainers should strongly consider this model. Check availability at UK stockists.

Aggregating feedback from retailer platforms, independent review sites, and BJJ forums reveals consistent patterns in how practitioners assess Kingz gis across different models and use cases.

Common Praise Themes
Quality construction dominates positive reviews. Practitioners repeatedly describe Kingz gis as "QUALITY" pieces with "top notch" embroidery and stitching. The collar receives specific praise for being "sturdy and comfortable" — achieving the difficult balance between grip-fighting stiffness and comfort against the neck.

Competition performance generates strong positive feedback, particularly for the Nano and Balistico models. Competitors appreciate that these gis meet IBJJF specifications whilst offering performance advantages (light weight for Nano, durability for Balistico). The clean, minimalist design appeals to practitioners who prefer understated aesthetics over bold graphics.

Value for money appears frequently in reviews, especially regarding The One. Reviewers consistently note surprise that an £80 gi delivers construction comparable to models costing £100-120. This perception of getting "more than you paid for" builds strong brand loyalty.

Common Complaints
Colour fading represents the most frequent criticism, particularly with darker gis after extended use. This appears consistent with industry norms rather than a Kingz-specific defect — nearly all gis experience some fading over time. Some practitioners note this as disappointing but acknowledge it doesn't affect functionality.

The weight of cotton trousers on The One receives occasional criticism from those preferring lighter ripstop options. However, this reflects a deliberate design choice (durability over weight savings) rather than a flaw. Kingz offers ripstop trousers on the Balistico and Nano for practitioners prioritising lighter weight.

A small number of reviews mention holes developing in high-stress areas (collar attachment points, knees) after extended use. The frequency appears low compared to the volume of positive durability reports, suggesting these represent statistical outliers rather than systematic issues.

Long-Term Feedback
Multi-year ownership reviews provide the most valuable insights into durability. One reviewer reported using their Kingz gi "on and off for the past few years" without noticing wear indicators like ripping or loose threads. Another noted that beyond colour fading, they "can't find any signs of weakness" with trousers described as "bulletproof" and jackets "holding up well" after several months of intensive testing.

The Nano series, despite lighter construction, maintains a reputation as one of Kingz's best-sellers across multiple generations (2.0, 3.0), suggesting long-term user satisfaction drives repeat purchases and recommendations.

Platform Ratings
Whilst specific aggregate ratings weren't consistently available across platforms, review patterns show strong positive sentiment. The combination of positive long-term ownership reports, consistent praise for construction quality, and minimal recurring complaints indicates genuine satisfaction amongst Kingz users.

Overall Rating: 8.5/10

Kingz Kimonos delivers on its promise of competition-tested quality at accessible prices. The brand's three core models — The One (£80), Balistico 4.0 (£120), and Nano 3.0 (£90) — each excel in their intended roles without attempting to be universal solutions. This focused approach results in genuinely fit-for-purpose products rather than compromised jack-of-all-trades gis.

Best For:

• Competition-focused grapplers seeking reliable, IBJJF-legal gis
• Practitioners wanting premium construction without ultra-premium pricing
• Those who value minimalist design and understated branding
• Competitors needing specific features (ultralight weight, grip resistance, moisture management)
• Frequent trainers requiring durable gis that justify higher upfront investment

Not Ideal For:

• Complete beginners unsure about long-term commitment to BJJ (consider cheaper entry options first)
• Extreme budget buyers limited to £50-60 (look at Sanabul or Essimo)
• Those preferring bold graphics and elaborate embroidery (consider Venum or Hayabusa)
• Practitioners seeking ultra-premium luxury positioning (Origin or Shoyoroll occupy that tier)

Quick Pros and Cons
Pros:

• Excellent construction quality across all price points
• Extensive athlete sponsorship validates competition performance
• Pre-shrunk fabric (90-95%) eliminates sizing guesswork
• True-to-size fit when following model-specific charts
• Strong UK availability and support through kingz.co.uk and retailers
• Value pricing — consistently delivers more quality than price suggests

Cons:

• Colour fading over extended use (industry-standard issue)
• Limited design variety — minimalist aesthetic won't appeal to everyone
• Model-specific cuts (particularly Balistico) may require size adjustment between models
• Cotton trousers on The One heavier than some prefer

Recommendation for UK Buyers
Kingz represents one of the strongest value propositions in the UK BJJ gi market. The brand occupies the sweet spot where quality construction meets reasonable pricing — delivering gis that perform in competition and withstand regular training without requiring premium-tier budgets.

For your first quality gi, The One V2 at £80 offers exceptional value. If you're competing regularly, the Nano 3.0 (£90) or Balistico 4.0 (£120) provide specific advantages worth the modest price increase. Whichever model you choose, order true to size using the model-specific chart, and expect minimal shrinkage thanks to pre-shrinking.

Purchase from kingz.co.uk or UK retailers like Made4Fighters to avoid customs charges and access easy returns. Watch for seasonal sales (Black Friday, post-Christmas) for 25-30% discounts. Kingz has earned its reputation through consistent quality rather than marketing hype — a refreshing approach in a market sometimes dominated by branding over substance.

Ready to explore more options? Check our best BJJ gis available in the UK or compare Kingz against other respected brands in our complete brand guide.