The Complete BJJ Gi Buying Guide

The Complete BJJ Gi Buying Guide

Your gi is the uniform you will live in for hundreds of hours of training, so choosing the right one matters. A good Brazilian jiu-jitsu gi fits well, survives years of hard rolls, and meets the rules if you plan to compete. With weaves, sizes, and care to consider, this guide will help you pick a gi that works for your training and lasts.

Understanding Gi Weave Types

The weave is how the jacket fabric is knitted together, and it affects weight, durability, and feel. The most common options are:

• Single weave: Lightweight and affordable, easier to grip but generally less durable. A reasonable starting point for beginners and hot training rooms.
• Double weave: Heavy and very durable, harder for opponents to grip, but hot and stiff. Less common for everyday training.
• Pearl weave: The modern favourite. It offers a strong balance of light weight, durability, and comfort, which is why most quality gis use it today.

For most people, a pearl weave gi is the best all-round choice.

Getting the Fit Right

A well-fitting gi should allow full range of motion without being baggy enough for opponents to grab easily. The jacket sleeves should end near your wrists, the pants near your ankles, and the skirt of the jacket should fall around mid-thigh. Gi sizing uses a letter and number system such as A1, A2, and A3, based mainly on your height and weight. Always check the brand's size chart against your own measurements, since sizing varies between makers. If you are between sizes, consider how much the gi will shrink (more on that below).

IBJJF Competition Rules

If you plan to compete, your gi may need to meet International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) standards. In general, that means the gi must be a single solid colour (white, blue, or black), made of cotton or a cotton-like fabric, and free of excessive rips or damage. There are also rules about sleeve and pant length, measured with arms extended, and the gi is checked with official measuring tools at events. If competition is your goal, choose a gi marked as competition-legal and confirm the current rules before your event, as they can be updated.

Shrinkage and Care

Most cotton gis shrink slightly, especially after the first few washes, which is why many people size up just a little. To control shrinkage and keep your gi in good shape, wash it in cold water, avoid harsh bleach, and hang it to dry rather than using a hot dryer. High heat is the main cause of unwanted shrinkage and faster wear. Wash your gi after every session, since bacteria thrive in damp, used fabric, and good hygiene protects you and your training partners.

Durability and Value

BJJ is hard on gear. Look for reinforced stitching at the high-stress areas: the seams, cuffs, collar, and knees of the pants. A thick, well-constructed collar resists breaking down and is harder for opponents to control. While a cheap gi can get you started, a well-made gi often costs less per year because it lasts far longer. If you train several times a week, owning two gis lets one dry fully between sessions and extends the life of both.

Choosing Your First Gi

For most newcomers, a pearl weave gi in a solid colour, true to the brand's size chart, with reinforced stitching is the ideal first purchase. It will be comfortable, durable, and competition-ready if you decide to test yourself on the mat.

DRAKO gis are built and tested with competitors who train hard and demand gear that holds up. From your first stripe to the podium, a DRAKO gi is forged for athletes who do not quit. Browse the DRAKO BJJ collection and find a gi ready to roll as long as you are.