Pre-Shrunk vs Shrink-to-Fit BJJ Gis: Complete Guide

Sizing frustration is one of the most common complaints among BJJ practitioners buying gis online. You order an A2 based on the size chart, wash it once, and suddenly it fits like an A1—or worse, it's still enormous and unwearable.

The difference between pre-shrunk and shrink-to-fit gis is the root cause of most sizing issues. Understanding this distinction before purchasing saves you from returns, wasted money, and the disappointment of a gi that doesn't fit properly.

Pre-shrunk and shrink-to-fit aren't just different washing recommendations—they represent fundamentally different manufacturing approaches with different sizing expectations, care requirements, and fit outcomes. For complete sizing guidance, see our BJJ gi size chart.

Pre-shrunk gis have been washed at high temperatures during the manufacturing process before being cut and sewn. The fabric shrinkage that would normally occur during your first wash has already happened at the factory, stabilising the dimensions.

How They Are Made

Manufacturers wash the raw fabric at high temperatures (typically 80-90°C) before cutting patterns and sewing the gi. This process causes the cotton fibres to contract, removing the majority of potential shrinkage. Once stabilised, the fabric is cut to size and sewn, ensuring the finished gi matches its labelled dimensions.

Sizing Reliability

Pre-shrunk gis offer exceptional sizing reliability: the size on the label is the size you'll wear. If the size chart says an A2 fits someone 5'10" and 80kg, you can trust that specification. The gi will maintain those dimensions throughout its lifespan with proper care.

Residual Shrinkage

Even pre-shrunk gis experience minor residual shrinkage—typically 1-3%—after your first wash. This translates to approximately 1-2 inches in length, which is usually imperceptible and doesn't affect fit significantly. Premium brands like Tatami and Scramble use pre-shrunk processing that keeps shrinkage to 2-3% maximum.

Advantages

• Predictable fit from day one: Try it on when it arrives; that's how it will fit permanently
• No guesswork: Order according to the size chart without mental calculations about shrinkage
• Ready to wear immediately: Wash once and train—no multi-wash shrinking process needed
• Ideal for online purchases: Minimises risk when you can't try before buying
• Less risk for first-time buyers: Reduces the most common source of sizing errors
• Consistent sizing across purchases: If an A2 fits now, an A2 from the same brand will fit next time

Disadvantages

• Limited adjustment potential: What arrives is the final size—you can't shrink it to fit better
• May not achieve perfect custom fit: Standard sizing might not suit unusual body proportions
• Slightly higher cost: Factory pre-shrinking adds processing expense, typically £5-£15 more than non-pre-shrunk equivalents
• Sizing between sizes is challenging: If you're between A2 and A3, you must choose without the option to fine-tune through shrinking

Best For

Pre-shrunk gis are ideal for beginners, online shoppers, people unfamiliar with gi sizing, anyone who values reliability over customisation, and practitioners who want to minimise the risk of sizing errors.

Price Point

Pre-shrunk gis typically cost £60-£150 in the UK market. The additional factory processing adds approximately £5-£15 to the price compared to non-pre-shrunk alternatives, though this varies by brand.

UK Brands Offering Pre-Shrunk Gis

Tatami Fightwear: UK-based brand using pre-shrunk fabric with 2-3% maximum shrinkage. Models include the Nova Absolute (£65), Estilo (£59.99), and Comp SRS 2.0.

Kingz: The ONE (£65-£80), Classic 3.0, and Comp 450 V6 all use pre-shrunk pearl weave that shrinks minimally.

Progress BJJ: Progress Academy Gi (£68) and other models use 450 GSM pre-shrunk pearl weave.

Hyperfly: Icon Series, Meridian, and ProComp Lyte use pre-shrunk construction.

Scramble and Origin: Both brands use pre-shrunk fabrics with less than 3% movement.

Hayabusa: Uses pre-shrunk fabrics that eliminate shrinkage risk.

Shrink-to-fit gis are manufactured from fabric that has not been pre-washed. The gi is intentionally oversized when new, designed to be shrunk to your body through controlled washing and drying. This approach allows you to dial in a more customised fit.

How They Are Made

The fabric is cut and sewn without pre-washing. Because unwashed cotton shrinks significantly when exposed to heat and water, the manufacturer cuts the gi larger than the target dimensions, anticipating that you'll shrink it to fit during the first several washes.

Sizing Approach

Shrink-to-fit sizing requires understanding the expected shrinkage and ordering accordingly. Most brands recommend ordering your standard size, knowing it will shrink to fit. Some manufacturers suggest sizing up, then shrinking down. Always check brand-specific guidance, as approaches vary.

The Shrinking Process

Achieving the right fit with shrink-to-fit gis requires a methodical approach:

1. First wash: Wash in warm water (40°C) with mild detergent
2. Check fit: Try on the gi whilst slightly damp to assess dimensions
3. Progressive heating: If still too large, wash in hotter water (50-60°C)
4. Tumble dry option: For more shrinkage, use low heat tumble dry in 20-minute increments
5. Monitor carefully: Check after each cycle—shrinkage accelerates with heat
6. Stop at desired fit: Once the gi fits properly, switch to cold water (30°C) permanently
7. Never exceed 60°C: Higher temperatures risk fabric damage and excessive shrinkage

Expected Shrinkage

Shrink-to-fit gis typically shrink 5-10% of their original dimensions. This translates to approximately 1-3 inches in sleeve length, 2-4 inches in jacket length, and 1-3 inches in trouser length. The shrinkage is greater in length than width—gis shrink more vertically than horizontally.

Advantages

• Custom fit potential: Fine-tune dimensions to your exact body measurements
• Often cheaper: Less factory processing reduces cost by £10-£20
• Greater control: You decide how much the gi shrinks rather than accepting factory dimensions
• Targeted shrinking: Can shrink specific areas (sleeves, trouser length) more than others with careful technique
• Better for unusual proportions: If you have long arms and short torso, you can shrink selectively

Disadvantages

• Requires knowledge and patience: Must understand the process and execute it carefully
• Risk of over-shrinking: Once too small, reversal is difficult or impossible
• Multiple wash cycles needed: Takes 3-5 wash cycles to dial in fit, delaying usability
• Unpredictable: Shrinkage varies by batch, material composition, and washing conditions
• Can shrink unevenly: Different parts may shrink at different rates
• Higher failure rate: More room for error, particularly for inexperienced buyers

Best For

Shrink-to-fit gis suit experienced gi buyers who understand sizing, people with non-standard body proportions, those who want maximum control over fit, and practitioners comfortable with the shrinking process and associated risks.

Price Point

Shrink-to-fit gis are often slightly cheaper than pre-shrunk equivalents, typically £50-£130 in the UK market. However, true shrink-to-fit options are increasingly rare as most modern brands default to pre-shrunk construction.

Which Brands Offer Shrink-to-Fit?

Shrink-to-fit gis have become less common in the modern market. Most contemporary brands default to pre-shrunk construction. However:

Fuji Sports: Interestingly, Fuji gis are technically pre-shrunk but are notorious for shrinking significantly if washed hot. Community reports indicate Fuji gis can shrink 4 inches or one full size (e.g., A3 to A2) when washed in hot water and tumble dried. Fuji officially recommends cold wash and hang dry to prevent this shrinkage.

Many older gi models and budget brands may not be pre-shrunk. Always check product descriptions and care labels to determine if your gi is pre-shrunk or requires shrinking.

If you've purchased a shrink-to-fit gi or your pre-shrunk gi arrived too large, controlled shrinking can achieve a better fit. This process requires patience and careful monitoring.

Step-by-Step Shrinking Process

1. Read brand instructions first: Always check the manufacturer's specific recommendations—brands vary in their advised approach
2. Measure before starting: Record the gi's current dimensions (jacket length, sleeve length, trouser length) as your baseline
3. First wash (40°C): Wash in warm water (40°C) with mild, colour-safe detergent. Avoid fabric softener, which can affect shrinkage
4. Air dry or low tumble: Either hang dry completely or tumble dry on low heat for 20 minutes, then air dry
5. Try on whilst damp: Assess fit when the gi is slightly damp—this gives you the most accurate representation of final dimensions
6. Measure again: Record new dimensions and compare to baseline. Calculate shrinkage percentage
7. Second wash (50°C): If still too large, increase water temperature to 50°C. Repeat drying and assessment process
8. Third wash (60°C maximum): For additional shrinkage, use 60°C water. Never exceed this temperature—higher heat risks fabric damage
9. Tumble dry for extra shrinkage: If washing alone isn't sufficient, use tumble dryer on low heat in 20-minute increments, checking between cycles
10. Stop before perfect fit: Aim slightly large—the gi will shrink minimally in future washes and will stretch slightly during training
11. Switch to cold permanently: Once satisfied with fit, wash in cold water (30°C or below) for all future washes

Targeted Shrinking Techniques

You can shrink specific areas more than others using these techniques:

Shrink sleeves only: Wet only the sleeves with hot water, leave the rest dry, then tumble dry the entire gi. The wet sleeves shrink whilst the dry body remains unchanged.

Shrink trousers only: Separate trousers and jacket. Wash trousers in hotter water (50-60°C) whilst washing jacket in cold water.

Shrink length without width: Pull the gi width-wise whilst damp to counter width shrinkage, then air dry in that position.

Essential Tools

• Measuring tape: Record dimensions before and after each wash
• Notebook: Track water temperature, dryer time, and resulting dimensions for each wash cycle
• Timer: Monitor tumble dryer cycles precisely
• Patience: Don't rush—take 3-5 wash cycles over 2-3 weeks to dial in fit gradually

Temperature Safety Guidelines

Different temperatures achieve different shrinkage levels:

• 30°C (cold): Prevents further shrinkage—use once desired fit is achieved
• 40°C (warm): Gentle shrinking, approximately 1-2% per wash
• 50°C (hot): Moderate shrinking, approximately 2-4% per wash
• 60°C (very hot): Maximum safe shrinking, approximately 3-5% per wash
• Above 60°C: Not recommended—risks fabric damage, colour bleeding, and uncontrollable shrinkage

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Washing too hot immediately: Start conservatively—you can always shrink more but can't easily reverse excessive shrinkage
• Not measuring between washes: Without data, you can't track progress or predict final dimensions
• Using high heat tumble dry: High heat causes rapid, often uneven shrinkage that's difficult to control
• Ignoring fabric composition: 100% cotton shrinks more than cotton-polyester blends
• Forgetting weave type matters: Gold weave shrinks more than pearl weave, which shrinks more than single weave

For comprehensive washing guidance, see our complete BJJ gi washing guide.

Understanding shrinkage percentages helps you predict how your gi's dimensions will change and plan your sizing strategy accordingly.

Pre-Shrunk Gi Shrinkage: 1-3%

Pre-shrunk gis experience minimal residual shrinkage, typically 1-3% after the first wash. For an A2 gi with 79cm jacket length, this means approximately 0.8-2.4cm (0.3-0.9 inches) of shrinkage—barely noticeable in practice.

Premium brands like Tatami and Scramble keep residual shrinkage to 2-3% maximum through rigorous pre-shrinking processes. Even when washing in slightly warm water (30-40°C), properly pre-shrunk gis remain dimensionally stable.

Shrink-to-Fit Gi Shrinkage: 5-10%

Non-pre-shrunk gis shrink significantly more: 5-10% when washed in hot water and machine dried. For that same A2 gi with 79cm jacket length, this translates to 4-8cm (1.5-3 inches) of shrinkage—the difference between a perfect fit and an unwearably small gi.

On average, expect 1-3 inches in sleeve length, 2-4 inches in jacket length, and 1-3 inches in trouser length when using hot water (60°C) and tumble drying. This can result in a difference of half a size to even a full size—an A3 may fit like an A2 after shrinking.

Factors Affecting Shrinkage

Fabric Composition:

• 100% cotton: Maximum shrinkage (7-10%)
• Cotton-polyester blends: Reduced shrinkage (3-6%)—synthetic fibres don't shrink
• Cotton-hemp blends: Variable shrinkage (4-8%)—hemp shrinks less than cotton

Weave Type:

• Pearl weave: 4-7% shrinkage, relatively consistent and predictable
• Gold weave: 6-10% shrinkage—gold weave shrinks significantly more than other weaves
• Single weave: 5-8% shrinkage, though quality varies widely

Gold weave's tendency to shrink more than pearl weave is one reason pearl weave has replaced it as the market favourite. See our weave comparison guide for detailed analysis.

Manufacturing Quality:

Budget gis often shrink more inconsistently due to lower-quality fabric and less rigorous quality control. Premium brands invest in better fabric stabilisation and more consistent manufacturing processes, resulting in predictable shrinkage within the stated range.

Direction of Shrinkage

Gis don't shrink uniformly in all directions. Length shrinks more than width—typically 60-70% of shrinkage occurs in length (jacket length, sleeves, trouser length) whilst only 30-40% occurs in width (chest, shoulders, hips).

This directional shrinkage explains why gis that are slightly too long when new often achieve a good fit after washing, whilst gis that are tight in the chest don't improve much with shrinking.

Shrinkage by Brand

Community-reported shrinkage data from Reddit and BJJ forums reveals brand-specific patterns:

• Fuji: Despite being labelled pre-shrunk, can shrink 4 inches (approximately 8-10%) if hot washed and tumble dried
• Shoyoroll: 2-5% shrinkage—lower than average for premium gis
• Tatami: 2-3% maximum—excellent pre-shrinking
• Kingz: 2-4% for pre-shrunk models
• Budget brands: 6-12%—highly variable and often exceeds expectations

Practical Example

Let's examine an A2 shrink-to-fit gi with these initial dimensions:

• Jacket length: 79cm
• Sleeve length: 61cm
• Trouser length: 95cm

After washing in hot water (60°C) and tumble drying, assuming 8% shrinkage:

• Jacket length: 72.7cm (6.3cm shorter)
• Sleeve length: 56.1cm (4.9cm shorter)
• Trouser length: 87.4cm (7.6cm shorter)

This shrinkage transforms the gi's fit significantly, making it suitable for someone approximately 5-8cm shorter than the original sizing suggested.

Choosing the right size depends on whether your gi is pre-shrunk or shrink-to-fit. The strategies differ significantly.

Pre-Shrunk Gi Sizing

Trust the size chart: Pre-shrunk gi size charts are reliable. If the chart says A2 fits someone 5'10" (178cm) and 80kg, and that matches your measurements, order A2 with confidence.

Order exact size: Don't size up or down to account for shrinkage—minimal shrinkage is already factored into the sizing.

Between sizes? Go up: If you're exactly between A2 and A3 (e.g., 5'11"/180cm), choose the larger size. The 1-3% residual shrinkage won't be enough to make an oversized gi fit properly, but it might make a borderline size uncomfortably tight.

Consider fit preference: If you prefer a slightly loose fit, order your exact size. If you prefer a snug, competition-style fit, you might still order your exact size or even one size down if you're at the top of the size bracket.

Shrink-to-Fit Gi Sizing

Check brand guidance first: Some brands recommend ordering your normal size (anticipating shrinkage to fit), whilst others suggest sizing up. Always verify brand-specific instructions.

General rule—order your size: Most shrink-to-fit gis are cut with shrinkage in mind. Ordering A2 if you normally wear A2 typically works, as the oversized initial dimensions will shrink to proper A2 fit.

Between sizes? Go down: Unlike pre-shrunk gis, if you're between A2 and A3 on a shrink-to-fit gi, choose A3. You can shrink it down to fit, but you can't unshrink an A2 that's too small.

Account for weave type: If buying a gold weave shrink-to-fit gi (rare but possible), order one size up—gold weave shrinks significantly more than pearl or single weave.

Body Type Considerations

Tall and lean (long limbs, narrow frame):

• Pre-shrunk: Look for brands with A2L, A3L sizing options (L = Long). If unavailable, size up and accept a looser torso fit
• Shrink-to-fit: Can work in your favour—order one size up, then selectively shrink the torso whilst minimising sleeve shrinkage through targeted washing

Short and stocky (shorter limbs, broad frame):

• Pre-shrunk: Standard sizing often works well. If sleeves are too long, consider professional tailoring (£15-£30)
• Shrink-to-fit: Order your standard size, then shrink sleeves and trouser length more aggressively whilst limiting torso shrinkage

Proportional build:

• Pre-shrunk: Size charts are most accurate for average proportions—trust the chart
• Shrink-to-fit: Order your normal size and shrink uniformly

For body-type specific guidance, see our sizing guides: tall athletes, short and stocky, and plus size.

Understanding which UK-available brands offer pre-shrunk versus shrink-to-fit gis helps you make informed purchasing decisions.

Pre-Shrunk Brands (Majority of Modern Market)

Tatami Fightwear (UK): All models are pre-shrunk with 2-3% maximum shrinkage. Extensively tested manufacturing process ensures dimensional stability. Models: Nova Absolute, Estilo, Comp SRS 2.0, Elements Superlite.

Progress BJJ (UK): Uses pre-shrunk 450 GSM pearl weave across its range. Academy Gi and M6 models are pre-shrunk as standard.

Kingz (Australia, UK stockists): The ONE, Classic 3.0, Comp 450 V6, Nano, Balistico, and Ultralight models all use pre-shrunk construction. Minimal shrinkage expected.

Hyperfly (USA, UK warehouse): Icon Series, Meridian, JudoFly, and ProComp Lyte are pre-shrunk. UK warehouse provides fast delivery.

Scramble (UK): Pre-shrunk fabrics with less than 3% movement. Athlete and Standard Issue models are dimensionally stable.

Origin (USA, ships to UK): Premium pre-shrunk construction with less than 3% shrinkage. Pro Pants and competition gis maintain sizing.

Hayabusa (Canada, ships to UK via Hayabusa Europe): Essential and Goorudo 3 models use pre-shrunk fabric that eliminates shrinkage risk.

Shrink-to-Fit / Higher Shrinkage Brands

Fuji Sports: Technically pre-shrunk but notorious for additional shrinkage if hot washed. Community reports indicate Fuji gis can shrink 4 inches (one full size) when washed hot and tumble dried. Fuji recommends cold wash and hang dry to prevent this. If buying Fuji, treat it as shrink-to-fit and order accordingly.

Budget brands and older models: Many budget BJJ gi brands and older gi models may not be pre-shrunk. Always check product descriptions, care labels, and customer reviews before purchasing.

How to Verify Pre-Shrunk Status

When researching a gi purchase, check:

1. Product description: Look for "pre-shrunk" or "sanforised" (technical term for pre-shrinking process)
2. Care instructions: Pre-shrunk gis typically recommend cold water wash; shrink-to-fit may mention hot wash for first wash
3. Size chart notes: Brands often indicate if sizing accounts for shrinkage
4. Customer reviews: Search for "shrinkage" in reviews to see real-world experiences
5. Brand reputation: Established brands (Tatami, Kingz, Progress) default to pre-shrunk

Market Trend: Pre-Shrunk as Default

The BJJ gi market has shifted strongly towards pre-shrunk as the industry standard. This trend benefits consumers by reducing sizing errors and returns. Most gis purchased from reputable brands in 2026 will be pre-shrunk unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Shrink-to-fit gis have become niche products, occasionally found in budget ranges or specific traditional brands. For most UK buyers, you'll be choosing between pre-shrunk options rather than deciding between pre-shrunk and shrink-to-fit.

Choosing between pre-shrunk and shrink-to-fit depends on your experience level, priorities, and specific circumstances. Here's a clear decision framework.

Choose Pre-Shrunk If...

• You're buying your first gi: Pre-shrunk eliminates the most common source of sizing errors for beginners
• Ordering online without trying on: Reduces risk when you can't physically assess fit before purchasing
• You want zero hassle: Wash once in cold water and train—no multi-wash shrinking process required
• Unfamiliar with gi sizing: If you're uncertain about how gis fit or how to assess proper fit, pre-shrunk is safer
• You value predictability: What you order is what you get—no surprises
• Limited washing facilities: If you can't easily do multiple wash cycles or control water temperature precisely, pre-shrunk is more practical
• Time-sensitive purchase: Need a gi ready for training immediately rather than after several wash cycles
• Standard body proportions: If size charts typically work well for you, pre-shrunk will likely fit accurately

Choose Shrink-to-Fit If...

• You have experience with gi sizing: You understand how gis should fit and can assess proper dimensions
• You want a custom fit: You're willing to invest time for a more tailored result
• You have unusual body proportions: Long arms with short torso, or other non-standard measurements that make standard sizing challenging
• You're comfortable with the process: You understand controlled shrinking, can monitor carefully, and accept the risk
• You want to save money: Shrink-to-fit gis are sometimes £10-£20 cheaper than pre-shrunk equivalents
• Previous gi was wrong size: If your last pre-shrunk gi was slightly too large or small, shrink-to-fit gives you adjustment capability
• You enjoy the process: Some practitioners find dialling in the perfect fit satisfying

Decision Flowchart

First gi? → Pre-shrunk (safest choice)

Experienced buyer + standard build? → Pre-shrunk (most convenient)

Experienced buyer + unusual proportions? → Consider shrink-to-fit (but pre-shrunk with tailoring is often better)

Buying online? → Pre-shrunk (lower risk)

Budget under £60? → Pre-shrunk if available; if only shrink-to-fit options exist at this price, order carefully

Want guaranteed fit? → Pre-shrunk (predictable outcome)

Want cheapest option? → Shrink-to-fit may save £10-£20, but consider the risk

The Reality: Pre-Shrunk Is Usually Better

For 90% of BJJ practitioners, pre-shrunk gis are the better choice. The slight cost premium (if any) is worth the dramatically reduced risk of sizing errors, the convenience of immediate usability, and the predictable, reliable fit.

Shrink-to-fit made more sense historically when gi sizing was less standardised and pre-shrunk options were limited. In the modern market, with excellent pre-shrunk gis widely available from £60-£85, there's rarely a compelling reason to choose shrink-to-fit unless you have very specific fit requirements or extensive experience.

If you're unsure, default to pre-shrunk. You'll be in good company—the vast majority of practitioners now train in pre-shrunk gis.

Both pre-shrunk and shrink-to-fit gis are frequently mishandled, leading to sizing disasters. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Buying Shrink-to-Fit and Washing in Cold Water

The problem: You purchase a shrink-to-fit gi, find it's enormous, but wash it in cold water as you do with all clothes. The gi never shrinks, remaining unwearably large.

The solution: If you've purchased a shrink-to-fit gi (intentionally or unknowingly), you must wash it in warm-hot water (40-60°C) for the first several washes to achieve the intended fit. Check care labels and product descriptions to determine if your gi is pre-shrunk or shrink-to-fit.

Mistake 2: Buying Pre-Shrunk and Washing in Hot Water

The problem: You purchase a pre-shrunk gi that fits perfectly out of the bag, then wash it in hot water (60°C) and tumble dry it. The gi shrinks 3-5% beyond the residual shrinkage, becoming too tight in the sleeves and too short in length.

The solution: Always wash pre-shrunk gis in cold water (30°C maximum) and air dry. Even pre-shrunk gis can shrink further with excessive heat. Save hot water for intentional shrinking only.

Mistake 3: Not Measuring Before and After Each Wash

The problem: You're shrinking a gi to fit but don't measure it between washes. After the third wash, you discover it's too small, but you have no data about when it reached the correct dimensions or how much it shrunk each cycle.

The solution: Keep a shrinkage log. Measure jacket length, sleeve length, and trouser length before the first wash, then after each subsequent wash. Record water temperature and dryer time. This data helps you predict final dimensions and stop at the right point.

Mistake 4: Using High Heat Tumble Dryer

The problem: You want to shrink your gi quickly, so you wash it in hot water and tumble dry on high heat for 60+ minutes. The gi shrinks 8-12%, becoming unwearably small and potentially damaging the fabric structure.

The solution: Never use high heat. Use low heat in 20-minute increments, checking between each cycle. High heat causes rapid, uneven, uncontrollable shrinkage and can damage the fabric's integrity. For optimal care, see our gi drying guide.

Mistake 5: Assuming All Gis of Same Label Size Are Same Dimensions

The problem: You buy an A2 Tatami gi that fits perfectly, then buy an A2 Fuji gi assuming identical fit. The Fuji gi arrives much larger, as sizing standards vary between brands.

The solution: Always check brand-specific size charts. A2 from one brand is not identical to A2 from another. Measure your current well-fitting gi and compare those dimensions to the size chart of your prospective purchase.

Mistake 6: Not Accounting for Training Stretch

The problem: You shrink your gi until it fits snugly when you try it on standing still. After one training session, it feels slightly tight because you didn't account for the fact that gis stretch during use.

The solution: Stop shrinking when the gi is slightly loose. Gis stretch during training, particularly in the chest, shoulders, and knees. Leave room for this inevitable stretching.

Mistake 7: Buying the Wrong Type Unknowingly

The problem: You don't check whether your gi is pre-shrunk or shrink-to-fit before purchasing. It arrives, you wash it normally (hot or cold, depending on your habit), and the fit is completely wrong.

The solution: Always verify pre-shrunk status before purchasing. Check product descriptions, care labels, and reviews. If uncertain, email the retailer to confirm.

Mistake 8: Giving Up After First Wash

The problem: You wash a shrink-to-fit gi once in 40°C water, find it's still too large, and conclude it's defective or mis-sized.

The solution: Shrinking takes multiple wash cycles. Budget 3-5 washes over 2-3 weeks, progressively increasing heat. One wash is never sufficient for proper shrink-to-fit results.