Buying your first BJJ gi shouldn’t be complicated, but walking into a gym for the first time without one can be intimidating. I’ve coached dozens of white belts through this decision, and I see the same confusion every time.
After years of experience testing gis and helping beginners make smart choices, I’ll give you the straightforward guide I wish someone had given me when I started. No marketing hype, no overwhelming options—just practical advice to help you make a confident first purchase.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to look for, how to size yourself correctly, and which gi to buy based on your specific situation.
The Absolute Essentials: What You Must Know
Before diving into specifics, here are the non-negotiables every beginner needs to understand:
Rule #1: You Need a Gi
Unless you’re specifically starting at a no-gi-only gym (rare), you need a gi. Don’t show up in a karate uniform, don’t wear regular clothes, don’t ask to borrow one long-term.
Your gi is your uniform. It’s part of the respect you show to the art, your instructor, and your training partners.
Rule #2: Don’t Overthink It
Your first gi doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be:
- The right size
- IBJJF legal (standard specifications)
- Durable enough to last 1-2 years
- Within your budget
That’s it. You can worry about premium features, perfect fit, and ideal weight after you know you’re committed to BJJ.
Rule #3: Budget Reality
Minimum: $50-70 (budget gis that work)
Recommended: $90-120 (quality gis that last longer)
Premium: $120-180 (high-end gis for committed students)
Most beginners should aim for the $90-120 range. It’s the sweet spot of quality, durability, and value.
Understanding Gi Components
Let’s break down what you’re actually buying:
The Jacket
Fabric Types:
Pearl Weave (Most Common):
- Woven pattern creates textured surface
- Good balance of weight and durability
- Industry standard for training gis
- Weight range: 400-550 GSM
Single Weave (Lightweight):
- Thinner, lighter fabric
- Good for hot climates
- Less durable than pearl weave
- Weight range: 280-350 GSM
Double Weave (Heavy):
- Very thick, extremely durable
- Uncommon in modern gis (too heavy)
- Weight range: 650-900 GSM
GSM Explained: Grams per square meter. Higher GSM = heavier, more durable fabric.
For beginners: Look for 400-500 GSM pearl weave. Perfect balance.
The Pants
Ripstop Cotton (Most Common):
- Grid pattern prevents tears from spreading
- Durable and flexible
- Standard for BJJ training
- Weight: 8-12 oz
Standard Canvas:
- No ripstop pattern
- Less tear-resistant
- Found in budget gis
- Weight: 8-10 oz
For beginners: Ripstop cotton is worth it. The tear resistance matters during training.
The Collar
The collar is crucial—it’s what opponents grip for chokes and control.
What to look for:
- Firm but not rigid
- EVA foam core (standard)
- 4-5cm thick
- Maintains shape after washing
A collar that’s too soft becomes useless for training. Too stiff and it’s uncomfortable. Quality gis nail this balance.
Sizing: The Most Important Decision
Getting the right size is more important than choosing the right brand. A perfect gi in the wrong size is worse than a mediocre gi that fits properly.
Standard Sizing Chart
| Size | Height | Weight | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| A0 | 4’11”-5’4″ | 100-135 lbs | Smaller adults, teens |
| A1 | 5’4″-5’8″ | 135-165 lbs | Smaller men, average women |
| A2 | 5’8″-5’11” | 165-185 lbs | Average men |
| A3 | 5’11”-6’2″ | 185-210 lbs | Tall/heavier men |
| A4 | 6’2″-6’5″ | 210-240 lbs | Very tall/heavy men |
| A5 | 6’5″+ | 240+ lbs | Extra large |
Special Sizes
Long (L) Sizes (A1L, A2L, etc.):
- Same jacket width
- Longer sleeves and pants
- For tall, thin athletes
Husky (H) Sizes (A1H, A2H, etc.):
- Wider jacket
- Shorter sleeves and pants
- For shorter, stocky athletes
How to Measure Yourself
You’ll need:
- Tape measure
- Someone to help (optional but easier)
Measurements to take:
- Height: Stand against wall, mark top of head
- Weight: Use standard scale
- Arm length: Measure from center of back neck to wrist
- Inseam: Measure from crotch to ankle
Use these measurements to cross-reference with brand-specific size charts.
Between Sizes? Here’s How to Decide
Go LARGER if:
- You prefer comfort over fit
- You’re at the upper end of height range
- You have broader shoulders
- You’re still growing (teens)
Go SMALLER if:
- You prefer fitted look
- You’re at the lower end of weight range
- You plan to compete (less fabric = advantage)
- You have narrow frame
When in doubt: Go larger. A slightly loose gi is more comfortable than one that’s too tight.
Understanding Shrinkage
Almost every gi shrinks—it’s unavoidable. The question is: how much?
Typical Shrinkage Rates
Pre-shrunk gis (most modern gis):
- First wash: 1-2% shrinkage
- After 3-5 washes: 2-3% total
- Mostly in length, minimal in width
Non-pre-shrunk gis (older/budget brands):
- First wash: 3-5% shrinkage
- After 3-5 washes: 5-8% total
- Significant in both length and width
Shrinkage in Real Numbers (A2 Example)
Pre-shrunk gi (like Fuji All Around):
- Sleeve length: 28″ → 27.5″ (-0.5 inch)
- Pants length: 36″ → 35″ (-1 inch)
- Jacket width: Minimal change
Non-pre-shrunk gi:
- Sleeve length: 28″ → 26.5″ (-1.5 inches)
- Pants length: 36″ → 33.5″ (-2.5 inches)
- Jacket width: Slight tightening
How to Minimize Shrinkage
DO:
- Always wash in COLD water
- Always HANG DRY (never use dryer)
- Don’t use hot water even once
- Expect some shrinkage regardless
Pro Tip: Wash your new gi 2-3 times before your first class to pre-shrink it and verify fit.
Color Choice: Does It Matter?
Most academies allow white, blue, or black gis. Some have specific requirements (check with your gym).
White Gi
Pros:
- Traditional and respectful
- Shows when it needs washing (motivates cleanliness)
- Often cheapest option
- Never banned at any academy
Cons:
- Shows stains and dirt
- Can look worn faster
- Requires bleach-free stain removal
Blue Gi
Pros:
- Hides stains and wear better
- Professional appearance
- Still traditional
- Good middle ground
Cons:
- Can fade over time
- May bleed color onto other clothes in wash
- Sometimes restricted at traditional academies
Black Gi
Pros:
- Hides stains and wear best
- Looks sharp
- Never shows dirt
Cons:
- Can fade to gray over time
- Some academies prefer white/blue
- May absorb more heat in hot gyms
- Often slightly more expensive
Recommendation for First Gi:
Buy white or blue. These are universally accepted and traditional. Save black for your second or third gi when you know your gym’s culture.
Gi Features Explained
IBJJF Compliance
IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) sets standards for competition gis. Even if you never compete, buying an IBJJF-legal gi ensures quality standards.
Requirements:
- Sleeves must reach wrist, no more than 5cm past
- Pants must reach ankle, no more than 5cm past
- Jacket must reach below hips, covering thighs
- Must be white, royal blue, or black
- Patches must follow size/location rules
For beginners: Always buy IBJJF-legal gis. They meet quality standards and work at any academy.
Reinforcements
Where reinforcements matter:
- Knees (high friction during passing)
- Collar (constant gripping)
- Armpits (stress point during movement)
- Skirt/hem (ripping point)
Quality gis reinforce these areas with extra stitching or stronger fabric. Budget gis may skip some reinforcements.
Patches and Branding
Minimal patches/branding:
- Cleaner look
- Competition-legal anywhere
- Professional appearance
Heavy patches/branding:
- Shows affiliation/brand loyalty
- May violate some competition rules
- More visual interest
For beginners: Less is more. A clean gi is always appropriate.
Budget Breakdown: What to Expect
$50-70 Range (Budget Gis)
Examples: Sanabul Essentials V2, Elite Sports, Hawk Sports
What you get:
- 1-2 years durability
- Basic reinforcements
- Thinner fabric
- Simple design
What you sacrifice:
- Longevity (won’t last 3+ years)
- Premium feel
- Brand recognition
Best for: Beginners unsure about commitment, tight budgets, backup gis
$90-120 Range (Quality Gis)
Examples: Fuji All Around, Gold BJJ, Venum Contender, Hayabusa
What you get:
- 2-3 years durability
- Solid reinforcements
- Quality pearl weave
- Proven reliability
What you sacrifice:
- Premium features
- Luxury aesthetics
Best for: Most beginners (this is the sweet spot)
$120-180 Range (Premium Gis)
Examples: Tatami, Kingz, Shoyoroll, Origin
What you get:
- 3-5+ years durability
- Premium construction
- Luxury fabric
- Best fit and finish
What you sacrifice:
- Money (obviously)
Best for: Committed students, people who want one high-quality gi, those who can justify the investment
Top Recommendations by Situation
Best First Gi for Most People: Fuji All Around
Price: $90-110
Why: Perfect balance of quality, price, and reliability. This gi has been the default beginner recommendation for 10+ years because it just works.
[BUY FUJI ALL AROUND GI – AFFILIATE LINK]
Best Budget First Gi: Sanabul Essentials V2
Price: $50-70
Why: Shocking quality for the price. Perfect if budget is tight or you’re unsure about commitment.
[BUY SANABUL ESSENTIALS V2 – AFFILIATE LINK]
Best Premium First Gi: Tatami Estilo 6.0
Price: $120-150
Why: If you’re committed from day one and want a gi that’ll last years, this is worth the investment.
[BUY TATAMI ESTILO 6.0 – Direct Link]
Note: This gi is sold directly through Tatami Fightwear. I recommend it because it’s genuinely excellent quality, even though I don’t currently earn a commission on this recommendation.
Best for Hot Climates: Elite Sports Ultra Light
Price: $60-80
Why: Lightweight, breathable, quick-drying. Perfect for Florida, Texas, or anywhere else unbearably hot.
[BUY ELITE SPORTS ULTRA LIGHT – AFFILIATE LINK]
Best for Larger Athletes: Hawk Sports Standard
Price: $55-75
Why: Goes up to A6 sizing at reasonable prices. Better proportions for bigger frames.
[BUY HAWK SPORTS STANDARD – AFFILIATE LINK]
What NOT to Buy
Avoid These Red Flags:
DON’T BUY:
Non-BJJ gis: Karate, Judo, or Taekwondo gis are cut differently and won’t work well for BJJ
Unknown brands without reviews: Stick to established brands or well-reviewed options
Ultra-cheap gis (<$40): These fall apart quickly and cost more in replacements
Used gis (for first purchase): Used gis may have hidden damage, odor issues, or incorrect sizing
Gis with excessive patches: These may violate competition rules and look unprofessional
How to Care for Your First Gi
Proper care extends gi lifespan dramatically.
Washing Instructions
DO:
- Wash after every training session
- Use cold water only
- Regular detergent is fine
- Add white vinegar occasionally (odor control)
- Hang dry always
DON’T:
- Never use the dryer
- Never use hot water
- Never use fabric softener (weakens fibers)
- Never leave sweaty gi in bag overnight
- Never wash with other clothing (color bleeding)
Drying Tips
Best practices:
- Hang on sturdy hanger or drying rack
- Well-ventilated area (not closed closet)
- Reshape while damp to maintain fit
- Allow 12-24 hours for complete drying
Speed up drying:
- Use fan directed at gi
- Hang near (not on) heater in winter
- Flip gi halfway through drying
- Wring out excess water before hanging
Odor Prevention
Prevention:
- Wash immediately after training
- Add 1 cup white vinegar every 2-3 washes
- Don’t let bacteria set in
Treatment (if odor develops):
- Soak in bathtub with 2 cups white vinegar for 30 minutes
- Wash normally with detergent
- Hang dry in sun if possible (UV kills bacteria)
- Repeat if needed
Common Beginner Questions
“Should I buy one gi or two?”
Train 1-3x per week: One gi is sufficient if you wash after every class and it dries overnight.
Train 4+ times per week: Two gis is recommended for rotation and convenience.
Start with one. Add a second after a few months if needed.
“What about the belt?”
Most gis include a white belt. If not, buy a separate white belt ($10-15).
Your instructor will promote you and give you your next belt. Don’t buy colored belts yourself.
“Can I train in a gi that’s slightly too big or too small?”
Too big: Uncomfortable but workable. More fabric for opponents to grip.
Too small: Can restrict movement and may not meet IBJJF length requirements.
If possible, exchange for correct size. Proper fit makes training much more enjoyable.
“How many gis will I eventually need?”
Casual training (2-3x/week): 2 gis
Regular training (4-5x/week): 3 gis
Heavy training (6+ sessions/week): 4+ gis
Build your collection gradually. Don’t buy 4 gis on day one.
“Should I buy gi and belt as a set?”
Sets are fine, but not necessary. Most individual gis include a white belt anyway.
“What about women’s-specific gis?”
Many brands offer women’s cuts (W1, W2, etc.) with different proportions—shorter torso, narrower shoulders, wider hips.
If available in your size, try women’s-specific. If not, standard cuts work fine for most people.
Your Action Plan
Step 1: Check with Your Gym
Before buying anything, ask your instructor:
- Color requirements (if any)
- Size recommendations
- Gi preferences or restrictions
Step 2: Measure Yourself
- Take height and weight measurements
- Measure arm length and inseam if possible
- Have measurements ready when shopping
Step 3: Set Your Budget
Decide realistically what you can spend:
- $50-70: Budget option
- $90-120: Recommended range
- $120+: Premium option
Step 4: Choose Your Gi
Based on this guide’s recommendations for your situation:
- Most beginners: Fuji All Around
- Tight budget: Sanabul Essentials V2
- Premium: Tatami Estilo 6.0
- Hot climate: Elite Sports Ultra Light
Step 5: Order the Right Size
Use brand-specific size chart, cross-reference with your measurements, and order.
When in doubt, size up.
Step 6: Pre-Wash Before Training
Wash your new gi 2-3 times in cold water, hang dry, and verify fit before your first class.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your first gi should be simple: measure yourself, set a budget, and pick a reliable option from a trusted brand.
The gi doesn’t make the practitioner. Your technique, dedication, and time on the mats matter infinitely more than whether you’re wearing a $70 gi or a $170 gi.
Buy something that fits properly, take care of it, and focus on learning BJJ. That’s what actually matters.
See you on the mats.
OSS,
Jameson Ryan
Quick Reference: Top Picks Summary
Best Overall: Fuji All Around ($90-110)
[Buy Now – AFFILIATE LINK]
Best Budget: Sanabul Essentials V2 ($50-70)
[Buy Now – AFFILIATE LINK]
Best Premium: Tatami Estilo 6.0 ($120-150)
[BUY TATAMI ESTILO 6.0 – Direct Link]
Best Lightweight: Elite Sports Ultra Light ($60-80)
[Buy Now – AFFILIATE LINK]
Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support this site and allow me to continue providing honest, detailed gear guides. I only recommend gis I have personal experience with or have thoroughly researched.
Last Updated: January 2026