Are you looking for the best BJJ gi in what feels like an overwhelming amount of options? Yes, as one of the best Jiu Jitsu gi brands out there, we are certainly biased 😂. But we still have some thoughts on what makes a great gi.
Here are our top choices for the 5 best BJJ gis of 2024...
1. Best Overall BJJ Gi: The Foundation Gi
The Foundation Gi truly excels at finding the sweet spot between long-lasting durability and ultimate comfort.
With its medium weight, highlighted by a 450gsm Pearl Weave jacket, it is built tough to hold up against the demanding aspects of our sport. The ultra-comfy rash guard liner offers unparalleled comfort, making every training session enjoyable.
- 450gsm Pearl Weave Jacket: Known for its durability and comfort.
- Rash Guard Jacket Liner: Ensures the ultimate comfort while training.
- 10oz Ripstop Pants: Built to last through the toughest of sparring sessions.
- Elastic "FOR THE JOURNEY" Drawstring: For the perfect fit.
- IBJJF Approved: Meets all competition requirements in its three colors.
The Foundation Gi is a perfect go-to "daily training" gi. Pick this gi up today, and you'll find yourself grabbing it time after time when you're loading up your Jiu Jitsu bag.
2. Best Lightweight BJJ Gi: The Aeroweave Gi
The Aeroweave is 40% lighter than a standard pearl weave gi, making it a standout choice for those looking for ultimate comfort without compromising on quality.
This gi is crafted with optimal breathability in mind, guaranteeing you stay cool and nimble, particularly through the heat of rigorous workouts in warmer environments.
- Ultra Lightweight: Standout lightness for the best in comfort and breathability.
- 275 GSM Jacket & 10oz Ripstop Pants: Lightweight, without compromising on strength.
- Pre-shrunk: Ready to wear straight out of the box, guaranteeing a perfect fit from day one.
- Reinforced Durability: EVA Bolstered Collar, Ripstop-lined cuffs, and reinforced stitching at all stress points ensure longevity.
The Aeroweave Gi is the result of careful design, combining an ultralight build with enhanced durability features to withstand the test of time. Make it yours and experience a new level of comfort and style on the mats.
3. Best Competition BJJ Gi: The Valiant Gi
Designed meticulously and influenced by the feedback of athletes who compete actively, the Valiant gi embodies the essence of competitive spirit while providing a performance advantage.
It’s not limited to just competition settings; this gi excels in any training situation, delivering top performance wherever you are.
- 550gsm Pearl Weave Jacket: Provides unmatched durability and grip resistance.
- Heavy-duty 12oz Ripstop Pants: Perfectly complements the heavyweight jacket.
- Rash Guard Neck Liner: Offers supreme comfort, adorned with the inspiring "Man in the Arena" speech for added motivation.
- IBJJF Compliant: Meets all competition regulations, ensuring you're always ready for the podium.
The Valiant Gi, while crafted for competitive use, shines as an all-purpose kimono. Whether your goal is to stand out in competitions or to enhance your regular training sessions, the Valiant Gi stands ready to accompany you on your path.
4. Best Gold Weave BJJ Gi: The Calavera Gi
From the softness of its Gold Weave fabric to its uniquely styled Sugar Skulls rashguard liner, the Calevera gi is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a gold weave gi
This gi's mid-weight makes it challenging for opponents to secure grips, yet light enough to ensure you're always on point during weigh-ins.
- 450gsm Gold Weave Jacket: Renowned for its blend of softness and durability.
- 10oz Ripstop Pants: The perfect companion to the jacket, offering enhanced resilience.
- EVA Reinforced Collar: Designed to deter opponents from establishing strong grips.
- Sugar Skull Rashguard Liner: A beautiful, buttery soft touch that promises maximum comfort, especially around the neck and upper back.
With its blend of traditional gold weave and modern aesthetic touches, the Calavera stands out as a testament to the passionate practitioner's journey. If you're in the market for a gi that speaks of style, functionality, and an understated class, the Calavera beckons to be your next favorite training and competition companion.
5. Best Women's BJJ Gi: The Foundation Women's Gi
Tailored specifically for female athletes, every inch of the Foundation Women's gi has been meticulously designed to ensure a comfortable fit without compromising on functionality. With a medium-weight 450gsm Pearl Weave jacket and 10oz Ripstop pants, it strikes the perfect balance between lightweight agility and robust strength.
- 450gsm Pearl Weave Jacket: Renowned for its perfect blend of durability and comfort.
- Rash Guard Jacket Liner: Provides an extra layer of comfort during intense training sessions.
- 10oz Ripstop Pants: Ensuring longevity and resilience in every roll.
- IBJJF Compliant: Meeting all competition requirements in its three distinct colors.
The Foundation Women's Gi offers the durability required to withstand the rigors of BJJ while ensuring optimal comfort. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or someone who's just started their journey, this gi promises to be a trusted companion. It's the synthesis of style, strength, and sophistication, making it an indispensable part of every female practitioner's BJJ gear kit.
No matter your training style, one of the gis above is sure to be an excellent choice for you. If you want to learn more about how to pick the best BJJ gi, here are some of our thoughts...
What to Look for in a BJJ Gi
Jiu Jitsu gis come in a wide variety of sizes, materials, and feature sets. Here's what to keep in mind as you search for the best BJJ gi to match your training preferences.
1. Gi Sizing
A proper-fitting gi can drastically enhance your training experience. It provides ease of movement, ensures you're training safely, and even instills a sense of confidence when you step onto the mats.
First and foremost, every brand uses different size charts! Don't expect an A2 gi from one brand to fit like an A2 gi from another brand. Make sure to check the gi size chart from the specific brand you're shopping with.
Here's what to consider when navigating the world of BJJ gi sizing:
Gender-Specific Gis: Just like in other apparel, the fit varies between gis designed for men, women, and children. Women's gis often come with a more tapered waist and wider hips, accounting for the anatomical differences. Men's gis, on the other hand, usually have a broader shoulder area. Kid's gis, meanwhile, are designed for growing bodies. Always refer to the specific sizing chart of the brand you're interested in, as sizes can vary widely between brands.
Preshrunk vs. Non-Preshrunk: This refers to the treatment of the material before it's sold. A preshrunk gi has already been processed to reduce the amount of shrinkage that occurs when you wash it. Non-preshrunk gis can shrink significantly, especially after the first wash. It's vital to consider this when choosing your size. If you're between sizes and you're buying a non-preshrunk gi, it might be a good idea to size up.
Tapering: A gi that's well-tapered offers a snug fit, reducing the excess material an opponent could grab onto. This enhances your ability to execute and defend against techniques. However, be cautious. Too much tapering can restrict movement, especially in the shoulders and chest area. Balance is key.
Understanding the nuances of gi fit and size ensures not only a comfortable training session but also a tactical advantage. Your gi should feel like an extension of you – not too tight that it restricts movement, and not so loose that it offers easy grips for your opponent. Remember, the right fit can make all the difference in both practice and competition. Always try on a gi if possible, and if shopping online, make sure to consult brand-specific sizing charts and customer reviews for the best fit.
2. Material and Weave
The make-up of your gi, both in terms of material and weave, plays a pivotal role in its durability, weight, and overall performance. Different weaves provide distinct advantages, and knowing which to choose can enhance your experience on the mats. Let's dive into the intricacies of BJJ gi materials and weaves:
Single vs. Double Weave: These are among the most common types of weaves you'll encounter.
Single Weave: Lightweight and more breathable, single weave gis are ideal for training in warmer climates. However, they may wear out more quickly than their heavier counterparts.
Double Weave: This is essentially a thicker version of the single weave, offering more durability. It's harder for opponents to grip but can be a bit warmer and heavier. Ideal for competitions, and also popular as a judo gi material.
Gold Weave: Somewhere between the single and double weave lies the gold weave. Combining the best of both worlds, it provides the durability of a double weave gi without the excessive weight. It's breathable, comfortable, and is favored by many BJJ practitioners for its balanced properties.
Ripstop: Known for its characteristic grid-like pattern, ripstop is often used for pants. As the name suggests, it's designed to prevent rips and tears from spreading, making it highly durable. It's lightweight and dries quickly, two essential factors for rigorous training sessions.
Collar Materials: Often overlooked, the collar's material can have a significant impact on a gi's performance. Thick collars, especially those reinforced with rubber or EVA, can be tougher for opponents to maintain a grip on.
It's worth noting that the right material and weave for you can be influenced by several factors: your training environment, personal preferences in terms of weight and comfort, and even your BJJ style. Some practitioners prefer a lighter gi for quick movements, while others opt for a heavier gi, making it challenging for opponents to establish grips.
When choosing the material and weave, it's crucial to consider your primary purpose. Are you competing, training in a hot climate, or looking for a durable, everyday training gi? Understanding the benefits of each type will help you make an informed decision, ensuring your gi serves as a reliable partner in your BJJ journey.
3. Competition and Tournament Considerations
When transitioning from casual training to competition, there are specific rules and considerations to keep in mind regarding your BJJ gi. Unlike the more relaxed environment of the dojo, tournaments, especially those governed by established bodies like the IBJJF, come with stringent guidelines. Adhering to these can be the difference between stepping onto the mat or being disqualified before the match even begins. Let's explore the crucial factors for competition wear:
Gi Colors:The color of your gi isn’t just a fashion statement; it’s a regulatory requirement. Tournaments organized by bodies like the IBJJF have specific guidelines regarding permissible gi colors. Typically, only white, royal blue, and black gis are allowed. It’s crucial to check the guidelines of the specific tournament you're attending. The last thing you want is a disqualification due to a simple oversight on gi color.
Cutting Weight:Weigh-ins can be a nerve-wracking process for competitors, especially those on the borderline of their weight class. Adding to this stress is the fact that in many competitions, you're required to weigh in with your gi on. Given that gis can vary in weight, your choice can heavily influence your weigh-in results.
If you’re close to the upper limit of your weight class, a lightweight gi might be the difference between competing in your preferred division or being forced to face larger opponents in the next class up. Remember that some gis, especially those with thicker weaves, can add several pounds to your weight. For competitors who frequently cut weight, owning a lightweight gi specifically for weigh-ins can be a strategic move.
Other Considerations:Beyond color and weight, other factors can impact your tournament experience. Ensure that patches, if any, are appropriately placed and adhere to tournament guidelines. Additionally, the fit and condition of your gi are crucial. Excessively frayed, torn, or ill-fitting gis might not pass inspection, so it’s always a good idea to have a backup gi on hand.
Tournaments challenge your skill, strategy, and readiness. While perfecting your techniques and sharpening your strategy are key, it's just as important to make sure your equipment complies with competition rules. Always go over the regulations, inspect your gi thoroughly, and step onto the mats knowing you've prepared thoroughly in all aspects.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best BJJ Gi
At the end of the day, the best BJJ gi is the one that you're happy to wear and that gets you to class. You can't go wrong with any of these gis... but if you had to pick one, our choice for the best BJJ gi in 2024 is the Gold BJJ Foundation Gi.
