Valor Fightwear Gi Review: UK's Best Budget BJJ Brand?

Valor Fightwear emerged in 2010 as a trading style of Retz Limited, a fightwear brand based in Cumbria in the North West of England. Founded on the principle that high-quality gear should be accessible at affordable prices, Valor has spent over a decade serving the UK BJJ community from their warehouse in Barrow-in-Furness.

What sets Valor apart in the crowded BJJ gi market is their unflinching commitment to budget pricing without abandoning quality standards entirely. Everyone involved with Valor trains in martial arts, which reflects in their product design choices — they understand the practical needs of grapplers who train two or three times per week and need gear that performs without the premium price tag.

Valor operates primarily through direct-to-consumer sales via their website and eBay UK store, which keeps costs down by eliminating retail markups. This UK domestic operation means fast shipping for British grapplers and no customs fees or import duties that plague international brands. For beginners exploring BJJ without committing hundreds of pounds, this accessibility has made Valor a common first gi choice recommended by instructors across the UK.

The brand's market position is clear: they're not competing with Origin or Shoyoroll in the premium tier. Instead, they're targeting the budget-conscious grappler who needs IBJJF-legal, functional training gear that won't require a second mortgage. It's a philosophy that resonates particularly well with university students, casual hobbyists, and parents kitting out children for their first BJJ classes.

Valor's current BJJ gi range follows a straightforward tiered structure designed to serve different budgets and training intensities:

Entry-Level: Bravura (£65)
The Bravura represents Valor's flagship budget offering. With a pearl weave cotton jacket, 10oz canvas trousers, and reinforced stitching at stress points, it delivers the fundamentals without frills. Available in standard A-sizes from A0 to A4 (plus long variants), it's specifically engineered for beginners who need IBJJF compliance and basic durability. The Bravura includes a free white belt and ships in white, blue, and black colourways.

Mid-Range: Victory 2.0 (£60 on sale, regular £85)
Valor's Victory 2.0 sits in an interesting position — technically a 'premium lightweight' gi, but priced firmly in budget territory when on sale. The 450 GSM pearl weave jacket offers noticeably better hand-feel than the Bravura, with a tailored cut that fits closer to the body. The 8oz canvas trousers feature reinforcement from knees to cuffs, addressing the primary wear point on budget gis. Available in white, royal blue, black, dark blue, and grey, the Victory targets regular trainers wanting better quality without premium pricing.

Kids Range (from £55)
Valor's children's gis represent exceptional value for families. The Kids Bravura (£55) and Kids Valente (£55) use the same pearl weave construction as adult models, while the Kids VLR Superlight (£60) steps up to 350 GSM ultralight material. Sizes span M00 (110cm) through M4 (160cm), covering ages roughly 5-14. The elasticated waistbands on kids' models acknowledge the challenges of getting proper fits on growing children — a thoughtful detail often missing from budget brands.

Beyond gis, Valor also produces no-gi gear including rashguards and grappling shorts, though their primary reputation rests on their kimono range. The brand occasionally releases limited colourways and patterned gis (like their GEO series), but their core business remains simple, functional training gis in regulation colours.

We tested Valor's three primary offerings over multiple training sessions to evaluate real-world performance against their price points.

Valor uses standard BJJ sizing conventions: 'A' sizes for adult males, 'F' sizes for adult females, and 'M' sizes for children aged 5-14. Their sizing runs relatively true to standard measurements, though with some important caveats for budget-conscious buyers.

Adult Men's Sizing:

• A0: 5'4"-5'7" | 60-65kg
• A1/A1L: 5'7"-6'0" | 65-72kg
• A2/A2L: 5'8"-6'2" | 72-82kg
• A3/A3L: 6'1"-6'4" | 82-95kg
• A4: 6'1"-6'4" | 95-120kg

Adult Women's Sizing:

• F1: 4'9"-5'0" | 39-45kg
• F2: 5'0"-5'4" | 45-55kg
• F3: 5'3"-5'6" | 52-65kg
• F4: 5'6"-5'8" | 64-77kg

Kids Sizing:

• M00: 110cm height
• M0: 120cm
• M1: 130cm
• M2: 140cm
• M3: 150cm
• M4: 160cm

Valor explicitly advises against sizing up — their measurements are designed to fit properly out of the bag with minimal shrinkage. This contrasts with some brands that expect significant shrinkage and recommend oversizing.

Fit Characteristics: Community feedback suggests Valor gis run slightly more generous than Tatami's trim cuts but slimmer than traditional Fuji sizing. The Victory 2.0's tailored cut fits closer to the body than the Bravura, potentially requiring size adjustment if switching between models.

Shrinkage Expectations: Pearl weave gis typically shrink less than single or gold weave. Valor recommends cold or 30-40°C washing to minimise shrinkage and colour fading. User reports indicate minimal shrinkage (1-2cm) with proper care — cold wash, air dry away from direct heat. One reviewer intentionally tumble-dried for 45 minutes to shrink a jacket, then experienced very little additional shrinkage with subsequent cold washes.

Budget gis sometimes suffer inconsistent quality control in sizing. We tested multiple Bravura gis and found reasonably consistent measurements within ±1cm, though this doesn't match the precision of premium brands. If you fall between sizes, Valor recommends choosing the size that fits better in the body even if sleeves run slightly short — sleeves should sit between your wrist and halfway up your hand when arms are extended.

For detailed measurement guidance, consult our comprehensive BJJ gi size chart and measuring tutorial. For shrinkage concerns, see our complete shrinkage guide which covers budget gi considerations.

Evaluating budget gis requires recalibrating expectations. Valor doesn't pretend to compete with Origin's American-made construction or Shoyoroll's premium fabrics — they're delivering functional training gear at accessible prices. The question isn't 'Is this as good as a £150 gi?' but rather 'Does this perform adequately for its £65 price point?'

Construction Quality: Valor uses reinforced stitching on critical stress points — collar attachment, armpits, shoulders, and inside legs. In testing, these reinforcements held firm through aggressive rolling and repeated washing. The triple stitching on trouser stress points showed no unravelling after 20+ sessions. However, the overall stitch density is lower than premium brands, and we observed minor thread pulls on the jacket after particularly rough scrambles.

Material Quality: The pearl weave cotton feels decent against skin, though noticeably thinner and less substantial than 450-550 GSM premium gis. The rubberised collar maintains reasonable stiffness and resists the soggy collapse common to the cheapest gis. Trouser fabric (10oz canvas on Bravura, 8oz on Victory) sits at the lighter end of the spectrum — functional but not exceptional.

Durability Expectations: Community reports suggest 12-18 months of regular training (2-3 sessions weekly) before significant wear appears. Heavy trainers (5+ sessions weekly) report visible wear around 6-9 months — knee reinforcements thinning, minor seam stress, collar softening. This contrasts with premium gis offering 3-5 year lifespans, but represents acceptable value given the 3-4x price difference.

One long-term user confirmed: 'Having owned a Valor gi for over three years, it's truly been one of the best performing gis I've purchased' — though this appears to be exceptional longevity likely involving light training frequency and excellent care. More typical experiences cluster around 12-18 months before replacement becomes necessary.

Known Issues: The primary complaint centres on trouser durability. The lighter canvas fabric shows pilling and thinning faster than premium brands, particularly in the knee area despite reinforcement. The drawstring on the Bravura is functional but not robust — some users report fraying after 6-8 months. Colour fading varies; darker colours (blue, black) show more noticeable fading than white if washed in warm water.

Warranty and Returns: Valor offers a 14-day return window for unused items in original condition. They refund the purchase price minus shipping costs, or offer product exchanges. Customers pay return postage. For faulty goods breaching the Sale and Supply of Goods Act 1994, Valor operates a 28-day repair/replace/refund policy. Contact sales@valorfightwear.com to initiate returns.

Compared to similarly priced competitors, Valor holds up well. The Venum Contender (£45-65) uses lighter 350 GSM fabric and shows comparable durability. Generic Amazon gis at £40-50 often skimp on reinforcements that Valor includes. For UK buyers, Valor's domestic operation means easier returns and customer service in your timezone — worth considering if issues arise.

For deeper analysis of quality indicators when buying budget gis, see our guide on BJJ gi durability and quality assessment.

Valor's pricing strategy is straightforward: deliver functional, IBJJF-legal gis at the lowest sustainable price point whilst maintaining basic quality standards. Let's examine whether this value proposition holds up under scrutiny.

Current Pricing (February 2026):

• Valor Bravura: £65
• Valor Victory 2.0: £60 (sale) / £85 (regular)
• Kids range: £55-60

UK Market Positioning: These prices sit firmly in budget territory. For context, Tatami's Nova series (comparable quality) retails around £75-85, Progress JJ's Academy gi starts at £89, and premium options from Hyperfly or Origin exceed £150. Valor undercuts most branded UK competition by £10-40.

Cost-Per-Session Analysis: Assuming the Bravura lasts 15 months with training three times weekly (roughly 180 sessions), the cost per session is £0.36. A £150 premium gi lasting 4 years at the same frequency (624 sessions) costs £0.24 per session. The premium gi wins on cost-per-session, but requires 2.3x the upfront investment — a barrier for many beginners uncertain about long-term commitment.

Budget Tier Comparisons:

• Venum Contender (£45-65): Lighter construction (350 GSM), less reinforcement, but adequate for light training. Valor offers better build quality at similar pricing.
• Sanabul Essentials (£60-70): Imported from US, soft fabric but lower durability. Sizing less consistent than Valor. Potential customs fees add uncertainty.
• Generic Amazon gis (£40-55): Highly variable quality. Some acceptable, many terrible. Valor's UK-based operation provides better customer service and return options.

Where to Buy: Valor sells primarily through their official website (valorfightwear.com) and their eBay UK store. This direct-to-consumer model eliminates retail markups. Occasionally, UK martial arts retailers like Fight Equipment UK or Minotaur Fight Store stock Valor, though selection is limited. Amazon UK carries some Valor products sporadically, but the official website offers the fullest range and most competitive pricing.

Seasonal Deals: Valor runs periodic clearance sales, sometimes discounting older colourways by 20-30%. The Victory 2.0's current £60 sale pricing (down from £85) represents exceptional value — if available in your size and preferred colour, it's arguably the best budget gi deal in the UK market.

When Valor Makes Sense vs Spending More:

Choose Valor if:

• You're a complete beginner uncertain about long-term BJJ commitment
• You train 1-3 times weekly and need functional gear without premium features
• You're building a gi rotation and need an affordable backup
• You're kitting out children who will outgrow gis within 12 months regardless
• £65-85 is your absolute budget ceiling

Spend more on mid-range brands (Tatami, Progress, Scramble) if:

• You train 4+ times weekly and need superior durability
• You compete regularly and want better fit, feel, and longevity
• You're confident in long-term BJJ commitment and want better cost-per-session economics
• You want broader colour and style options

For comprehensive budget breakdowns across all price tiers, consult our complete BJJ gi budget guide and our analysis of whether expensive gis are worth the investment.

Based on extensive testing and value analysis, here are our recommended Valor gis for different use cases:

Best Overall Value: Valor Victory 2.0 (£60 on sale)
If available at the sale price, the Victory 2.0 is the obvious choice. You get 450 GSM pearl weave quality, tailored fit, and superior construction for £5 less than the budget-tier Bravura. Even at full £85 retail, the Victory competes strongly with £100-110 offerings from other brands. Buy direct from Valor's website for best availability.

Best First Gi: Valor Bravura (£65)
For absolute beginners who aren't certain they'll stick with BJJ beyond the first few months, the Bravura delivers everything necessary — IBJJF compliance, adequate durability for light training, and UK-based customer service — at minimal financial risk. If BJJ becomes a long-term pursuit, upgrade to mid-range brands after 12-18 months. If not, you've spent £65 rather than £150.

Best Kids Gi: Kids Bravura (£55)
The Kids Bravura offers identical construction quality to adult models with the addition of elasticated waistbands that accommodate growth. At £55, it's priced appropriately for gear that children will outgrow within a year regardless of durability. The free belt and IBJJF compliance add value. Parents of children training 3+ times weekly might consider the Kids VLR Superlight (£60) for improved comfort.

For broader gi recommendations across all brands and budgets, see our guides to the best BJJ gis available in the UK and the best gis specifically for beginners.

Valor Fightwear maintains a 4-star rating on Trustpilot with 7 customer reviews, though review counts remain relatively low compared to larger brands. Across multiple review platforms, ratings range from 2.2 to 4 stars depending on the source — variability that reflects the inherent trade-offs of budget gear.

Common Praises:

• Price-to-performance ratio: 'Excellent quality at a price many companies are unable to contend with' appears repeatedly. Customers appreciate getting IBJJF-legal, functional gis at genuinely affordable prices.
• UK shipping and service: Fast domestic shipping, responsive customer service, and no customs complications earn consistent praise. Being able to email sales@valorfightwear.com and receive timely UK-timezone responses matters when issues arise.
• Beginner-friendly: Many reviews note Valor as 'the perfect entry level gi' that doesn't intimidate newcomers with premium pricing whilst still delivering decent quality.
• Comfort: The Victory 2.0 particularly receives praise for being 'lightweight and very comfortable to train in' with good mobility.

Common Complaints:

• Durability limitations: Some reviewers note visible wear appearing faster than mid-range brands — 'not as durable as Tatami' or 'trousers showed pilling after 6 months of heavy training.' These complaints must be contextualised against the £60-65 price point.
• Inconsistent sizing: A minority of reviewers report sizing running larger or smaller than expected, though this appears less frequent than with generic Amazon brands.
• Limited availability: Popular sizes and colours sell out frequently, with restocking sometimes taking weeks. The direct-sales model means less inventory depth than major retailers.

Long-Term Feedback: The most valuable reviews come from long-term users. One three-year owner reported: 'It's truly been one of the best performing gis I've purchased.' Others note that with proper care (cold washing, air drying, avoiding tumble drying), Valor gis exceed durability expectations for the price bracket.

Context Matters: Many negative reviews stem from unrealistic expectations — comparing a £65 Valor gi to a £150 premium brand on durability or fabric quality. When reviewers assess Valor against appropriate price-point competitors (Venum Contender, Sanabul, generic Amazon offerings), feedback becomes notably more positive.

For proper care to maximise gi lifespan regardless of brand, consult our guides on how to wash your BJJ gi and proper drying techniques.

Overall Rating: 7.5/10

Valor Fightwear delivers on its core promise: accessible BJJ gis that meet IBJJF standards without requiring premium budgets. This isn't cutting-edge fabric technology or heirloom-quality construction — it's pragmatic gear for grapplers who need functional kimonos at prices that don't exclude participation in the sport.

Best For:

• Beginners exploring BJJ without certain long-term commitment
• Casual trainers attending 1-3 sessions weekly
• Budget-conscious grapplers needing backup gis for rotation
• Children starting BJJ who will outgrow gis rapidly regardless of quality
• UK-based buyers wanting fast domestic shipping and no import fees
• Students and those on tight budgets prioritising accessibility over longevity

Not Ideal For:

• Heavy competitors training 5+ times weekly who need maximum durability
• Grapplers seeking premium fabric quality and advanced construction
• Those wanting extensive colour and design options (Valor focuses on fundamentals)
• Athletes requiring precise, consistent sizing across multiple gi purchases

Quick Pros/Cons Summary:

Pros:

• Genuinely budget-friendly pricing (£55-85) makes BJJ more accessible
• IBJJF-legal construction allows competition use
• UK-based operation provides fast shipping and responsive customer service
• Victory 2.0 at £60 (sale price) offers extraordinary value
• Adequate durability for light-to-moderate training frequencies
• Kids range priced appropriately for rapidly growing children

Cons:

• Durability doesn't match mid-range or premium brands (12-18 month lifespan typical)
• Trouser fabric shows wear faster than jacket, particularly with heavy training
• Limited availability and frequent stock-outs on popular sizes
• Sizing consistency acceptable but not exceptional
• Minimal style variety — focus on function over fashion

Honest Recommendation: Valor represents excellent value for what it is — budget training gear that performs its role competently. If you're starting BJJ and uncertain whether you'll still be training in 12 months, the Bravura at £65 is sensible insurance against expensive buyer's remorse. If you're committed to regular training and can stretch to £90-110, mid-range UK brands like Tatami, Progress, or Scramble offer better long-term value through superior durability.

The Victory 2.0 at £60 (sale price) disrupts this calculus — at that price point, it competes directly with gis costing £40-50 more and emerges favourably. If available in your size, buy it.

For comprehensive brand comparisons, consult our guide to the best BJJ gi brands. To see how Valor fits into broader budget tiers, read our analysis of the best cheap BJJ gis and premium vs budget gi comparisons.