BJJ Gi Weave Types Explained: The Complete Guide

The weave pattern of your BJJ gi is one of the most important factors in its overall performance. It directly affects five key characteristics: weight, durability, breathability, grip texture, and price.

Choosing the right weave affects your daily training experience. A heavy double weave gi might be nearly indestructible, but it will leave you overheating in a warm gym. A lightweight single weave keeps you cool but may wear out within months of regular use. The weave also influences how easily your opponents can grip your gi — a factor that matters for both training and competition.

Competition rules add another layer of consideration. The IBJJF requires gis made from woven fabric for juvenile, adult, and master divisions — pearl weave, gold weave, single weave, and double weave all qualify, but ultra-lightweight ripstop jackets do not, and ultra-lightweight ripstop jackets are not permitted. Understanding these requirements before you buy prevents expensive mistakes.

The key metric for comparing weaves is GSM (grams per square metre), which measures fabric density. This guide covers the six main weave types, their GSM ranges, and which situations each is best suited for. For a broader look at gi fabrics beyond weave patterns, see our complete BJJ gi materials guide.

GSM stands for grams per square metre and is the standard unit for measuring gi fabric weight and density. It tells you how much a one-metre-square piece of the fabric weighs, giving you a reliable way to compare different gis regardless of brand or marketing language.

GSM is measured by weighing a precise sample of fabric. The higher the GSM, the denser and heavier the fabric. Here are the standard ranges:

• Lightweight: 275–450 GSM — Single weave, ultra-light pearl weave, ripstop. Best for hot gyms, travel, and making weight at competition.
• Midweight: 450–650 GSM — Standard pearl weave. The most common range for everyday training gis.
• Heavyweight: 650–1100 GSM — Gold weave, double weave. Maximum durability but significantly heavier and hotter.

How GSM affects total gi weight: A typical midweight pearl weave gi (around 450–550 GSM jacket) weighs approximately 1.7–2.1 kg in total (size A2). Ultra-lightweight gis like the Tatami Elements Ultralite 2.0 (250 GSM) come in at around 1.3 kg, whilst heavyweight gold or double weave gis can reach 2.5–3.0 kg. This matters for competition — IBJJF weigh-ins are conducted with the gi on, and the gi typically adds 1.5–2.0 kg to your body weight.

GSM and durability: Generally, higher GSM means greater durability, but this is not a perfect correlation. A well-constructed 450 GSM pearl weave can outlast a poorly made 900 GSM double weave. Weave pattern, thread quality, and reinforcement all play a role alongside raw fabric density.

GSM and breathability: Lower GSM fabrics are more breathable and dry faster. If you train in a warm gym or want your gi to dry overnight, a lighter GSM is preferable.

GSM and price: GSM alone does not determine price. Weave complexity, material (cotton vs hemp), brand positioning, and construction quality all influence the final cost.

Pearl weave is the dominant weave in modern BJJ, used in an estimated 80% of gis currently on the market. The construction technique creates an interlocking "pearl" pattern with a textured, bumpy surface that gives the fabric its distinctive feel.

Typical GSM range: 350–550 GSM. Specific examples from popular brands:

• Tatami Estilo 6.0: 550 GSM pearl weave jacket, 12 oz canvas pants. Total weight approximately 1.77–2.25 kg depending on size.
• Progress M6 Mark 6: 450 GSM pearl weave jacket with cotton twill or ripstop pants. A true midweight competition cut.
• Tatami Elements Ultralite 2.0: 250 GSM advanced pearl weave jacket, 7 oz ripstop pants. Just 1.3 kg in size A2.
• Kingz Ultralight: 375 GSM micro pearl weave jacket with 8 oz cotton pants.

Gold weave is a hybrid construction that sits between single weave and double weave, combining moderate weight with excellent durability. The weave produces a tighter, denser fabric with a smoother feel compared to pearl weave. Gold weave was once the most sought-after gi material but has fallen in popularity as pearl weave technology advanced.

Typical GSM range: 450–1050 GSM. The range is broad because different manufacturers interpret "gold weave" differently. Key examples:

• Hayabusa Goorudo 3.0: 550 GSM gold weave jacket with 12 oz twill pants. One of the best-known gold weave gis, available in the UK via Amazon UK and specialist retailers at approximately £100–£140.
• Gold BJJ Auroweave: 450 GSM gold weave jacket with 10 oz pants. A lighter interpretation of the gold weave style.

Single weave is the simplest and thinnest traditional gi construction. It uses a basic over-under weave pattern that produces the lightest cotton fabric available for gis. Single weave gis were once the standard entry point for beginners, though many budget gis now use lightweight pearl weave instead.

Typical GSM range: 300–400 GSM.

The Fuji All Around BJJ Gi is one of the best-known single weave options, priced at approximately £55–£70. It is available in the UK via Fuji Sports UK (fujisports.co.uk) and BJJ Fightgear. The Fuji Baseline is another affordable single weave option available through UK retailers.

Double weave gis use two layers of fabric woven together, creating the heaviest and most durable traditional gi construction. This is the weave most closely associated with judo gis and traditional martial arts uniforms. In modern BJJ, double weave gis are uncommon but still valued by practitioners who prioritise maximum durability above all else.

Typical GSM range: 900–1100 GSM.

The Tatami Tank is one of the few BJJ-specific double weave gis still in production, featuring a 950 GSM double weave jacket. Double weave gis are more readily available from judo suppliers — many BJJ practitioners who want double weave will purchase a judo gi and adjust for BJJ fit requirements.

Ripstop is a reinforced fabric with a distinctive grid pattern woven into the material that prevents small tears from spreading. In BJJ, ripstop is most commonly used for gi pants rather than jackets. The reinforced grid makes ripstop pants extremely lightweight, durable against tearing, and quick drying — which is why they have become the standard on most modern gi pants.

Typical GSM range: 200–350 GSM (for ripstop fabric specifically).

Hemp blends represent the premium, sustainable end of the BJJ gi market. Hemp fibres are blended with cotton — typically in a 55/45 or 60/40 hemp-to-cotton ratio — to produce fabric that is naturally antimicrobial, exceptionally durable, and environmentally friendlier than pure cotton.

Typical GSM range: 375–580 GSM (varies significantly by brand and component).

Use this side-by-side comparison to quickly assess which weave type suits your needs. Ratings are relative to other weave types.

Use these decision factors to narrow down the best weave for your situation:

Training frequency:

• 1–2 times per week: Any weave will serve you well. Single weave is fine at this training volume.
• 3–4 times per week: Pearl weave offers the best balance of durability and comfort for regular training.
• 5+ times per week: Pearl weave (mid to high GSM) or gold weave for maximum longevity. Consider owning 3–4 gis to rotate.

Climate and gym temperature:

• Hot gym or summer training: Lightweight pearl weave (350–450 GSM) or single weave. Ripstop pants help significantly.
• Cold gym or winter training: Standard pearl weave (450–550 GSM) or gold weave. The extra weight provides warmth.
• Average UK gym: Standard pearl weave (450–550 GSM) is the safest all-round choice.

Competition plans:

• Pearl weave is the safest choice — IBJJF-legal in all divisions.
• Avoid ultra-lightweight ripstop jackets — not IBJJF-legal.
• Be mindful of total gi weight at weigh-in. Lighter weaves give you more bodyweight allowance.

Budget:

• Under £60: Single weave or budget pearl weave.
• £60–£120: Quality pearl weave — the sweet spot for most practitioners.
• £120+: Premium pearl weave, gold weave, or hemp blends.

The default recommendation: If you are unsure, buy a pearl weave gi in the 450–550 GSM range. It is the most versatile, widely available, and competition-safe option. The vast majority of BJJ practitioners worldwide train in pearl weave. Deviate from this only if you have a specific reason — extreme heat (go lighter), maximum durability (go heavier), or environmental priority (go hemp).

For help choosing the right size in your preferred weave, use our BJJ gi size chart.

The IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) sets the most widely followed gi standards. Here are the key rules that relate to weave type:

• Material: Gis must be made from woven cotton or cotton-like fabric. Full synthetic gis and slippery-coated fabrics are not permitted.
• Woven fabric requirement: For juvenile, adult, and master divisions, the IBJJF requires gis made from woven fabric — this includes pearl weave, gold weave, single weave, and double weave. Ultra-lightweight ripstop jackets do not qualify.
• Collar thickness: Maximum collar thickness of 1.3 cm. EVA foam or similar material inside the collar is permitted.
• Collar width: Must be 5 cm.
• Reinforcement: Double reinforcement is allowed on shoulders, underarms, and skirt. Double reinforcement elsewhere (e.g. forearms) is prohibited.
• Colours: White, royal blue, or black only. Top and bottom must match.
• Weigh-in: Conducted with the gi on. The gi typically adds 1.5–2.0 kg. No-gi weight classes are 2 kg lighter to account for this.

Weaves that are always legal: Pearl weave, gold weave, single weave, and double weave — all qualify as woven fabric under IBJJF rules. Pearl weave is the most common and safest choice.

Weaves that may cause issues: Ultra-lightweight ripstop jackets (explicitly not legal — e.g. Hyperfly Starlyte). Gis with "no-grip" technology or that are too difficult to grab can be disqualified. Extremely heavy double weave gis may push you over your weight class limit at weigh-in.

How to check: Weigh yourself wearing your competition gi at least two weeks before the event. Check the current IBJJF rulebook at ibjjf.com/uniform, as rules are updated periodically. When in doubt, a pearl weave gi in white, blue, or black is always the safest option.

Weave type significantly affects how you care for your gi and how quickly it dries between sessions — an important practical consideration, especially in the UK where air drying indoors is often the only option.

Drying times by weave (approximate, air drying indoors):

• Ripstop pants: 3–6 hours
• Single weave: 4–8 hours
• Lightweight pearl weave (350–450 GSM): 6–10 hours
• Standard pearl weave (450–550 GSM): 8–14 hours
• Hemp blend: 10–16 hours
• Gold weave: 14–24 hours
• Double weave: 24–36+ hours

If you train frequently and need your gi dry by the next session, lighter weaves are a practical advantage. Owning multiple gis becomes essential with heavier weaves.

Shrinkage: Single weave gis tend to shrink more unpredictably than pearl weave. Gold weave is also known for more significant shrinkage. Most modern pearl weave gis use pre-shrunk cotton with minimal shrinkage (1–2% at 30°C). Hemp blends typically shrink 2–3%. For detailed shrinkage advice, see our shrinkage guide.

Care differences: Hemp blends have slightly different care requirements — they benefit from gentler treatment in the first few washes as the fabric softens. All weave types should be washed at 30°C or below. For full care instructions, read our washing guide and drying guide.