7 Essential Tips for Choosing the Best First BJJ Gi (2026)

By BJJ Sportswear Editorial Team
Reviewed by black belt instructors and gi equipment specialists | Last Updated: January 14, 2026

Choosing your first BJJ gi requires understanding proper sizing (A1-A5 standard sizing with sleeves/pants extending 2-3 inches past wrists/ankles to account for shrinkage), selecting appropriate fabric weight (350-450 GSM midweight for beginners balancing durability and comfort), choosing academy-approved colors (white is safest and universally accepted for white belts at all gyms), setting a realistic budget ($80-$100 sweet spot for quality without overspending), selecting reliable beginner brands (Fuji All-Around, Tatami Nova, Sanabul Highlight Pro, Progress Academy), deciding between traditional fit (recommended for beginners) versus slim competition cut, and ensuring the gi includes jacket, pants, and belt with proper care instructions. Lockdown BJJ advises: “For your first gi, choose a midweight option (450-550 GSM) in white color with traditional fit from reputable beginner brands—this provides the best balance of durability, comfort, and value while meeting academy requirements”. BJJ Brands recommends: “Expect to spend $80-$120 for quality first gi from brands like Fuji ($120), Tatami Nova ($100), or Sanabul Highlight Pro ($100)—cheaper options under $55 may not last through rigorous BJJ classes, while premium $150+ gis are unnecessary until you reach blue belt“.

Your first gi is more than just a uniform—it’s your essential training tool that you’ll wear 2-3 times weekly throughout your white belt journey, affecting your comfort while learning fundamental positions like closed guard, mount, and guard passing, so choosing the right one prevents frustration, wasted money, and ensures you look professional at your local BJJ gym. This comprehensive guide covers gi sizing charts and fit requirements, fabric weight options (GSM), color selection and academy rules, budget recommendations by tier, top beginner brand comparisons with prices, fit style considerations, what should be included with your purchase, and care instructions to maximize gi lifespan.

Why Your First Gi Choice Matters

More Than Just a Uniform

Your BJJ gi is the primary piece of equipment you’ll use in training, worn during every Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class as you progress through the BJJ belt system from white belt toward blue belt and beyond. Unlike no-gi training that uses rashguards and shorts, gi training forms the foundation of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, teaching grip control, patience, and technique refinement that directly translates to improved grappling overall.

Impact on your training:

Comfort affects performance – Ill-fitting gi restricts movement and distracts from learning
Durability determines value – Quality gi lasts 2-3 years with proper care, poor gi tears within months
Appearance shows respect – Professional-looking gi demonstrates commitment to training partners and instructors
Investment protection – Choosing right gi first time prevents wasting $50-$100 on replacements

Ultimate Gi Review emphasizes: “Your first gi will be your companion through countless hours of drilling, rolling, and learning—investing time in the right choice pays dividends throughout your BJJ journey”.

Common First-Timer Mistakes to Avoid

Buying without checking academy requirements:

Some academies only allow white gis for white belts
Certain gyms require specific academy patches
Competition rules (IBJJF) restrict colors to white, blue, black
Always ask your instructor before purchasing

Choosing wrong size:

Too large gives opponents easy grips, looks unprofessional
Too small restricts movement, tears easier, uncomfortable
Not accounting for shrinkage ruins expensive gi
Ignoring brand-specific sizing charts leads to poor fit

Going too cheap or too expensive:

Under $50 gis often poor quality, tear quickly
Over $150 gis unnecessary for beginners uncertain about commitment
Sweet spot: $80-$100 for quality that lasts

Buying without understanding differences from Judo gis:

BJJ gis differ from Judo gis in fit, cut, reinforcements
Reference: BJJ vs Judo Gi explains key differences

Tip 1: Understand Gi Sizing and Fit

Standard Sizing Chart

Novakik BJJ provides comprehensive sizing: “BJJ gis use A-sizing based on height and weight—A1 fits 5’6″-5’11” at 150-180 lbs, A2 fits 5’10”-6’2″ at 175-210 lbs, with specialty sizes like L (Long) for tall/lean athletes and H (Husky) for short/stocky builds”.

Standard A-sizing:

Size	Height	Weight	Best For
A0	5’4″-5’7″	120-155 lbs	Smaller athletes, youth
A1	5’6″-5’11”	150-180 lbs	Average male, taller female
A2	5’10”-6’2″	175-210 lbs	Most common male size
A3	5’11”-6’3″	195-230 lbs	Larger athletes
A4	6’2″-6’5″	225-250 lbs	Tall, heavy athletes
A5	6’5″-6’8″	250-300+ lbs	Very large athletes

Specialty sizing options:

A1L, A2L, A3L (Long):

For tall, lean athletes
Longer sleeves and pant legs
Narrower through torso
Example: 6’1″ at 170 lbs = A2L

A1H, A2H, A3H (Husky/Wide):

For shorter, stockier builds
Wider through chest and waist
Shorter sleeves and pants
Example: 5’9″ at 210 lbs = A2H

F-sizing (Fitted/Competition):

Slim, athletic cut
Tighter fit, less fabric for grips
Advanced/competitor preference
Not recommended for first gi

Proper Fit Requirements

Novakik BJJ fit guidelines:

Jacket sleeve length:

Should extend 2-3 inches past wrist bone when arm extended
Minimum: Must cover wrist when arm straight
Maximum: Can reach mid-palm
Too short = illegal for competition, harder to grip
Too long = opponent grips easily, looks sloppy

Pants length:

Should extend 2-3 inches past ankle bone
Minimum: Must cover ankle when standing
Maximum: Can reach mid-foot
Too short = illegal for competition
Too long = trip hazard, gets stepped on

Jacket body length:

Should cover hips completely
When arms at sides, jacket should cover top of thighs
Minimum competition requirement: jacket covers thighs when upright

Torso fit:

Should be able to overlap jacket 4-6 inches in front (belt holds closed)
Not so tight you can’t close it
Not so loose it gaps excessively

What proper fit looks like:

Slightly snug but allows full range of motion
Can perform guard passing movements comfortably
Maintains coverage during mount escapes and transitions
Professional, clean appearance

Accounting for Shrinkage

Pre-shrunk vs. shrinkable gis:

Pre-shrunk (recommended for beginners):

Ready to wear after purchase
Minimal additional shrinkage (1-2%)
True to size chart
Most modern brands offer this
More expensive but predictable

Shrinkable (traditional):

Will shrink 5-10% after first wash
Buy one size larger than chart suggests
Requires hot wash/dry to shrink
Less predictable, risky for beginners
Usually cheaper

Reddit r/bjj sizing advice: “Always check the brand’s sizing chart and reviews—some brands run small, others large, and reading reviews helps avoid costly sizing mistakes”.

Beginner recommendation:

Choose pre-shrunk gi for first purchase
Eliminates guesswork and shrinkage anxiety
More consistent sizing across brands
Wash in cold water, air dry to maintain size

Tip 2: Choose the Right Fabric Weight (GSM)

Understanding GSM (Grams per Square Meter)

Lockdown BJJ explains fabric weights: “Gi weight is measured in GSM (grams per square meter)—lightweight gis (350-450 GSM) are perfect for beginners and warm climates, midweight (450-550 GSM) offers the best balance of durability and comfort, while heavyweight (600+ GSM) is extremely durable but hotter to train in and preferred by competitors”.

Lightweight Gis (350-450 GSM)

Lockdown BJJ on lightweight benefits:

Advantages:

More comfortable in hot, humid gyms
Dries faster (important for frequent training)
Lighter in gym bag, easier to transport
Usually less expensive
Great for warm climates (Florida, Texas, California)

Disadvantages:

Less durable than heavier weights
Thinner fabric tears more easily
May not last as long with frequent use (2-3x weekly)
Can feel flimsier to new students

Best for:

Hot climate training
Students training 1-2x weekly
Secondary/backup gi
Traveling competitors

Midweight Gis (450-550 GSM) – RECOMMENDED FOR BEGINNERS

Lockdown BJJ recommends midweight: “Midweight gis (450-550 GSM) are the most popular choice for general training, offering the best balance of durability and comfort for year-round use”.

Advantages:

Best balance of durability and comfort
Withstands rigorous training (3-4x weekly)
Year-round suitable (not too hot, not too light)
Most versatile option for beginners
Widely available across brands

Disadvantages:

Slightly heavier to carry than lightweight
Takes longer to dry than lightweight
More expensive than lightweight options

Why ideal for first gi:

Will last through entire white belt journey (1-3 years)
Comfortable for learning fundamentals
Durable enough for frequent training
Industry standard for most practitioners

Popular midweight options:

Fuji All-Around (400 GSM) – $120
Tatami Nova Absolute (350 GSM) – $100
Sanabul Highlight Pro (400 GSM) – $100

Heavyweight Gis (600+ GSM)

Characteristics:

Extremely thick, durable fabric
Preferred by competitors (harder for opponents to grip)
Very hot to train in
Takes much longer to dry (24-48 hours)
Usually most expensive

Best for:

Competition-focused training
Very aggressive training environments
Cooler climates
After blue belt once committed

Not recommended for first gi:

Uncomfortable for beginners
Excessive durability (overkill for learning)
Heat retention discourages training
Premium price unnecessary

Fabric Weave Types

Pearl weave (most common):

Bumpy texture, lightweight, breathable
90% of BJJ gis use this
Good balance of weight and durability
Recommended for beginners

Gold weave:

Smoother, denser than pearl
Slightly heavier and more durable
Less breathable, hotter

Single weave:

Thinnest, lightest option
Used in lightweight gis
Less durable, competition-focused

Beginner recommendation: Pearl weave, 400-450 GSM

Tip 3: Select Appropriate Color

Traditional Color Options

Ultimate Gi Review on color selection: “For your first gi, choose white—it’s universally accepted at all academies, required for most competitions, and the traditional choice that shows respect for BJJ culture”.

Standard BJJ gi colors:

White (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for first gi):

Universally accepted at 100% of academies
Required at many gyms for white belts
IBJJF competition legal
Traditional, respectful choice
Shows stains (encourages frequent washing/hygiene)
Usually cheapest option

Blue:

Second most common color
IBJJF competition legal
Accepted at most academies
Hides sweat stains better
Slightly more expensive than white

Black:

Stylish, modern look
IBJJF competition legal
Hides all stains well
Accepted at most academies
Usually most expensive standard color

Academy and Competition Requirements

Check before purchasing:

Many academies require white gi for white belts
Some traditional gyms only allow white gis for all students
Ask instructor at your local BJJ gym before buying
Gracie Barra affiliates often require blue gis with academy patches

IBJJF competition rules:

Only white, blue, or black gis allowed
Colored gis (red, green, pink, camo) illegal for IBJJF events
Local tournaments may be more flexible
If unsure about competing, stick to white/blue/black

Why white is safest first choice:

No academy prohibits white gis
Legal for all competitions
Traditional and respectful
Easy to find in all price ranges
Can always buy colored gi as second gi later

Non-Traditional Colors (Not Recommended for First Gi)

Colored gis (red, green, pink, camo, etc.):

Many academies prohibit these
Illegal for IBJJF competition
Usually more expensive
Good as second/third gi after blue belt
Only if your academy allows and you don’t plan to compete

Tip 4: Set a Realistic Budget

Budget Tier ($55-$80) – Entry Level

BJJ Brands budget recommendations:

Elite Sports Core ($55-$60):

Cheapest quality option available
Poly-cotton blend (not pure cotton)
Pre-shrunk and breathable
Basic reinforcements
Good for uncertain beginners testing BJJ

Ground Force Basic V2 (~$80):

Entry-level quality
Pre-shrunk with reinforced stress points
White belt included
Sufficient for 1-2x weekly training

Sanabul Essentials ($50-$70):

Amazon best-seller
Lightweight pearl weave
Good for trying out BJJ
May not last with frequent training (3-4x weekly)

Budget tier pros:

Low financial risk if you quit BJJ
Sufficient for first few months
Better than no gi

Budget tier cons:

May tear within 6-12 months of frequent use
Thinner fabric, less durable
Usually not competition-grade
May need replacement sooner

Mid-Range Tier ($80-$120) – BEST VALUE FOR BEGINNERS

BJJ Brands highly recommends mid-range options: “The $80-$120 sweet spot provides quality that lasts through your entire white belt journey without overspending on premium brands unnecessary for beginners”.

Progress Academy Gi (~$95):

Designed specifically for beginners
380 GSM lightweight pearl weave jacket
Lightweight ripstop pants
Minimalist design (no flashy patches)
Free white belt included
Excellent value for quality

Tatami Nova Absolute (~$100):

350 GSM lightweight
Refined design over many years
Comprehensive size chart (includes L/H options)
Reinforced stress points
White belt included
Trusted brand globally

Sanabul Highlight Pro (~$100):

Reddit r/bjj favorite
400 GSM durable pearl weave
Stays true to size (consistent fit)
Comfortable, broken-in feel
9/10 user ratings
Best budget-friendly option

Fuji All-Around (~$120):

Industry gold standard for 30+ years
400 GSM jacket, 10oz canvas pants
Pre-shrunk 100% cotton
Wide size range (A0-A6 plus L/H)
Exceptional durability (lasts 3-5 years)
Slightly higher price justified by longevity

Kingz The ONE V2 (~$120):

Modern design, classic reliability
425 GSM pearl weave
Reinforced knees and stress points
Stylish without being flashy
Great fit across sizes

Mid-range tier recommendation:

BEST choice for serious beginners
Quality lasts through white belt and beyond (1-3+ years)
Durable enough for 3-4x weekly training
Competition-ready if you compete
Professional appearance at BJJ classes
Good resale value if you quit

Premium Tier ($150+) – Not Necessary for Beginners

High-end brands:

Shoyoroll ($200-$300)
Hyperfly ($180-$250)
Origin ($200-$400)
Atama Mundial ($180-$220)
Koral ($200-$300)

Premium features:

Exceptional fabric quality
Unique designs and collaborations
Limited edition releases
Superior stitching and reinforcements
Status symbol in BJJ community

Why not recommended for first gi:

Overspending for uncertain commitment
Features wasted on beginners learning fundamentals
Can purchase after blue belt once dedicated
Mid-range gis perform nearly identically for training
Save $100+ without sacrificing quality

When to buy premium:

After 1+ year of consistent training
Reached blue belt or beyond
Certain about long-term commitment
Want specific style/brand identity
Have budget for multiple gis

Budget Recommendation Summary

If trying BJJ (unsure about commitment):

Budget tier: $55-$80 (Elite Sports, Sanabul Essentials)
Minimal financial risk
Upgrade if you continue past 3 months

If committed to learning BJJ (recommended):

Mid-range tier: $80-$120 (Tatami Nova, Sanabul Highlight Pro, Fuji All-Around)
Best value for longevity
Will last through white belt journey
Also purchase: Essential BJJ Gear (rashguard, mouthguard, etc.)

Total first equipment investment:

Gi: $80-$120
Rashguard (no-gi): $30-$50
Shorts/spats: $30-$50
Mouthguard: $10-$25
Flip-flops: $10-$15
Total: $160-$260 for complete setup

Tip 5: Choose Reliable Beginner Brands

Top Beginner Gi Brands (Proven Quality)

BJJ Brands evaluates top options: “Fuji, Tatami, Sanabul, and Progress are the most reliable beginner brands, offering quality construction, accurate sizing, and excellent value in the $80-$120 range”.

Fuji (Industry Standard):

Founded 1969, 50+ years experience
Fuji All-Around gi: BJJ staple since 1990s
Pros: Exceptional durability, consistent sizing, wide availability
Cons: Slightly higher price ($120), conservative styling
Best for: Serious beginners wanting longevity
Rating: 9.5/10 for beginners

Tatami (UK-Based Quality):

Established 2009, rapidly grown globally
Tatami Nova Absolute: refined beginner design
Pros: Lightweight comfort, L/H sizing options, stylish
Cons: International shipping can be slow
Best for: Lighter athletes, warm climates
Rating: 9/10 for beginners

Sanabul (Best Budget Value):

Modern brand, Amazon-focused
Sanabul Highlight Pro: Reddit favorite
Pros: Unbeatable price-to-quality, consistent fit, fast shipping
Cons: Less prestigious brand, basic styling
Best for: Budget-conscious beginners, value seekers
Rating: 9/10 for beginners

Progress (Beginner-Specific Design):

Newer brand designed for BJJ students
Progress Academy Gi: purpose-built for white belts
Pros: Lightweight, minimalist, includes belt, affordable
Cons: Limited availability, newer brand
Best for: Minimalists, clean aesthetic preference
Rating: 8.5/10 for beginners

Elite Sports (Entry Budget):

Budget-focused brand
Elite Sports Core: cheapest quality option
Pros: Very affordable ($55-$60), good for testing BJJ
Cons: Poly-cotton blend (not pure cotton), less durable
Best for: Uncertain beginners, minimal investment
Rating: 7.5/10 for beginners

Brands to Avoid as Beginner

Unknown Amazon brands (no-name, generic):

Suspiciously cheap ($30-$45)
Poor stitching, thin fabric
Inaccurate sizing
Tear within weeks
No customer support

Warning signs:

No established website
No sizing chart provided
Only stock photos (no real reviews)
Prices too good to be true (<$40)

Stick to known brands:

Fuji, Tatami, Sanabul, Progress, Elite Sports (budget)
93 Brand, Kingz, Scramble (mid-range)
Read reviews from r/bjj community

Tip 6: Consider Fit Style (Traditional vs. Slim)

Traditional/Regular Fit – RECOMMENDED FOR BEGINNERS

Lockdown BJJ on fit styles: “Traditional fit gis provide more room and comfort, making them ideal for beginners learning techniques—slim/competition fits are tighter and preferred by advanced competitors but can restrict movement during the learning phase”.

Traditional fit characteristics:

More room through chest, shoulders, waist
Looser sleeves and pant legs
Easier movement and flexibility
More forgiving sizing (weight fluctuations)
Classic BJJ look

Why recommended for beginners:

Comfortable while learning closed guard and mount escapes
Allows full range of motion for drilling
Less restrictive during long training sessions
Accommodates body composition changes (common in first year)
Focus on learning, not gi tightness

Best traditional fit brands:

Fuji All-Around (classic fit standard)
Tatami Nova Absolute (comfortable regular fit)
Progress Academy Gi (relaxed fit)

Slim/Competition Fit – For Advanced Students

Slim fit characteristics:

Tighter through torso and limbs
Less fabric for opponents to grip
Tapered sleeves and pants
Athletic, modern aesthetic
Preferred by competitors

Advantages:

Harder for opponents to grip (competition advantage)
Sleek, professional appearance
Less excess fabric

Disadvantages for beginners:

Restricts movement if not perfectly fitted
Less forgiving with sizing (must be exact)
Can feel uncomfortable during long sessions
May outgrow with muscle gain
Learning curve with tight fit

When to consider slim fit:

After reaching blue belt
Planning to compete regularly
Athletic build with stable weight
Second or third gi purchase
Comfortable with body mechanics

Popular slim fit brands:

Shoyoroll (premium competition cut)
Hyperfly (slim, modern design)
Kingz Comp 450 V6 (competition-specific)
93 Brand Standard Issue (fitted cut)

Fit Recommendation for First Gi

Choose traditional/regular fit:

Prioritizes comfort and learning
More versatile for body changes
Better value (won’t outgrow quickly)
Industry standard for white belts
Can always buy slim fit later as second gi

Tip 7: Check What’s Included and Extras

Standard Gi Package Contents

What MUST be included:

Gi jacket (kimono top)
Gi pants (bottom)
Belt (usually white for beginners)
Care instructions (washing/drying guidelines)

JiuJitsu.com Buyer’s Guide recommends: “Ensure your gi package includes jacket, pants, and belt—most beginner gis include a white belt, and you’ll need to learn how to tie it properly before your first class”.

Nice-to-Have Extras

Gi bag/carry bag:

Some brands include basic drawstring bag
Useful for transporting wet gi after training
Keeps gym bag clean and separated
Not essential (can use any bag)

Reinforced stress points:

Knees, crotch, armpits, collar reinforced
Mid-range and premium gis include this
Extends gi lifespan significantly
Budget gis may lack reinforcements

Pre-shrunk fabric:

Most modern gis are pre-shrunk
Eliminates sizing guesswork
Worth paying slightly more for
Check product description

Academy patch space:

Designated areas for gym patches
Usually on shoulders and pant legs
Some academies require patches
Ask instructor before applying patches

Free rashguard (rare):

Occasionally included in promotions
Useful for no-gi training
Not standard inclusion
Nice bonus if offered

Gi Care and Maintenance Included

Care instructions should specify:

Washing temperature (cold recommended)
Drying method (air dry only, never machine)
Bleach usage (never use bleach)
Frequency (wash after EVERY use—hygiene!)

Proper gi care extends lifespan:

Wash in cold water after each use
Air dry only (prevents shrinkage and damage)
Never machine dry (ruins fabric, excessive shrinkage)
No bleach (weakens fibers, damages color)
Hang dry or lay flat (maintains shape)

Hygiene importance:

BJJ is close-contact sport
Dirty gi spreads bacteria, staph, ringworm
Respect training partners with clean gi
Academy culture values cleanliness

Expected lifespan with proper care:

Budget gi ($55-$80): 6-12 months with frequent use
Mid-range gi ($80-$120): 2-3 years with frequent use
Premium gi ($150+): 3-5+ years with frequent use
Frequency: Training 3-4x weekly considered frequent

What to Verify Before Purchase

Pre-purchase checklist:

✅ Correct size selected (checked sizing chart)
✅ Academy allows this color (asked instructor)
✅ Pre-shrunk or shrinkable (know which)
✅ Includes jacket, pants, belt
✅ Brand has good reviews (checked r/bjj, Google)
✅ Return policy exists (in case of sizing issues)
✅ Price fits budget ($80-$120 recommended)
✅ Shipping timeframe acceptable (need for first class)

Frequently Asked Questions

What size BJJ gi should I buy?

Buy a BJJ gi using standard A-sizing based on your height and weight: A1 fits 5’6″-5’11” at 150-180 lbs, A2 fits 5’10”-6’2″ at 175-210 lbs, A3 fits 5’11”-6’3″ at 195-230 lbs, with sleeves extending 2-3 inches past wrists and pants 2-3 inches past ankles when properly fitted. Novakik BJJ advises: “Always check the specific brand’s sizing chart since some run small or large, consider specialty sizes like L (Long) for tall/lean or H (Husky) for short/stocky builds, and choose pre-shrunk gis to eliminate sizing uncertainty”. If between sizes, order larger size for traditional fit or smaller for competition fit, and remember proper gi fit allows comfortable movement during guard passing and mount positions while maintaining professional appearance.

What color gi should I buy first?

Buy a white gi for your first purchase because it’s universally accepted at all academies, required for white belts at many traditional gyms, legal for all IBJJF competitions, and the most affordable option. Ultimate Gi Review recommends: “White is the safest first choice that shows respect for BJJ tradition—check your academy’s requirements before purchasing, as some gyms restrict white belts to white gis only”. Blue and black gis are also IBJJF-legal and accepted at most academies, but white guarantees no issues at any BJJ gym near you, and you can always purchase colored gis later as second or third gi after reaching blue belt.

How much should I spend on my first BJJ gi?

Spend $80-$120 on your first BJJ gi for the best balance of quality and value—this mid-range sweet spot provides durable construction that lasts 2-3 years of frequent training without overspending on premium brands unnecessary for beginners. BJJ Brands recommends: “Quality options like Fuji All-Around ($120), Tatami Nova ($100), or Sanabul Highlight Pro ($100) provide excellent durability and fit for white belts learning fundamentals in BJJ classes“. Budget gis under $55 often tear within 6-12 months, while premium gis over $150 offer features wasted on beginners—invest the $80-$120 mid-range for reliability through your entire white belt journey, then upgrade to premium brands after reaching blue belt if desired.

What is the best BJJ gi for beginners?

The best BJJ gis for beginners are Fuji All-Around ($120) for exceptional durability and consistent sizing, Tatami Nova Absolute ($100) for lightweight comfort and L/H size options, Sanabul Highlight Pro ($100) for best budget value with 9/10 user ratings, and Progress Academy Gi ($95) for beginner-specific design with minimalist aesthetic. Lockdown BJJ recommends: “Choose midweight gis (450-550 GSM) in white color with traditional fit from these reputable brands—they provide the best balance of durability, comfort, and academy acceptance”. All these options include jacket, pants, and belt, feature pre-shrunk fabric for sizing consistency, offer reinforced stress points for longevity, and work perfectly for learning fundamental techniques like closed guard and side control escapes.

Should I buy a pre-shrunk or shrinkable gi?

Buy a pre-shrunk gi for your first purchase because it’s ready to wear immediately, maintains consistent sizing after washing (only 1-2% additional shrinkage), eliminates guesswork about final fit, and most modern beginner brands offer this option. Shrinkable gis require buying one size larger and using hot wash/dry cycles to intentionally shrink them 5-10%, creating unpredictable results that risk costly sizing mistakes for beginners unfamiliar with the process. Pre-shrunk gis cost slightly more but provide peace of mind—simply wash in cold water and air dry to maintain size throughout your white belt training, focusing on learning BJJ instead of worrying about gi fit. Reference: Essential BJJ Gear Guide covers complete equipment care.

What’s the difference between BJJ and Judo gis?

BJJ gis differ from Judo gis in fit (BJJ gis have tighter, more tapered cuts with shorter sleeves and pants), reinforcements (BJJ gis reinforce knees/pants for ground work, Judo gis reinforce shoulders/lapels for throwing), fabric weight (BJJ allows 350-550 GSM lightweight options, Judo requires minimum 650 GSM heavyweight), and competition legality (gis are not interchangeable between sports due to different regulations). BJJ vs Judo Gi article provides complete comparison—never use a Judo gi for BJJ competition as it violates sleeve/pant length and fit requirements, though Judo gis can work for casual BJJ training if your academy allows. For your first gi, purchase a BJJ-specific gi in the $80-$120 range from brands like Fuji, Tatami, or Sanabul designed specifically for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training and IBJJF competition regulations.

Start Your BJJ Journey with the Right Gi

Getting Started Resources:

BJJ Near Me – Find your local academy
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes – What to expect in training
How to Tie a BJJ Belt – Essential first skill
Essential BJJ Gear – Complete equipment guide

Understanding Your Journey:

BJJ Belt System – Complete progression path
White Belt Guide – Your starting point
Blue Belt Guide – First major milestone
Will BJJ Build Muscle? – Fitness benefits

Techniques You’ll Learn:

What is Guard in BJJ? – Core concept
Closed Guard – Fundamental position
Mount Position – Dominant control
Side Control Escape – Essential defense
Guard Passing – Fundamental skill

Equipment Details:

BJJ vs Judo Gi – Understanding differences
Why NEVER Buy a BJJ Black Belt – Rank legitimacy

The bottom line: Choose your first BJJ gi in size A1-A3 based on your height/weight with 2-3 inch sleeve/pant extensions, select midweight 350-450 GSM fabric for durability and comfort balance, buy white color for universal academy acceptance and IBJJF competition legality, invest $80-$120 in reliable beginner brands (Fuji All-Around, Tatami Nova, Sanabul Highlight Pro, Progress Academy), choose traditional fit over slim competition cut for learning comfort, ensure the gi is pre-shrunk with jacket/pants/belt included, and follow proper care (cold wash, air dry) to maximize 2-3 year lifespan through your white belt journey learning fundamental techniques at your local BJJ gym.

Choose wisely. Invest smart. Start training. 🥋💯

How We Reviewed This Article

Editorial Standards: Information verified through black belt instructor input, gi manufacturer specifications, beginner student surveys across multiple academies, sizing chart analysis from 15+ brands, and competition regulation verification from IBJJF official rules.

Sources Referenced:

Lockdown BJJ (comprehensive gi selection guide)
Novakik BJJ (sizing and fit specifications)
BJJ Brands (2025 beginner gi comparisons and pricing)
Ultimate Gi Review (first gi selection advice)
JiuJitsu.com (buyer’s guide fundamentals)
Reddit r/bjj (community recommendations and user reviews)
RVCA (gi selection criteria)

Last Updated: January 14, 2026

Blog

7 Essential Tips for Choosing the Best First BJJ Gi (2026)