Best BJJ Gis (2024): Bought & Tested On The Mats

The Gi is your armor as a BJJ athlete. Wearing an uncomfortable, ill-fitting BJJ Gi that scratches your skin with each movement is off-putting. It may even make you question whether you want to go to class to suffer through discomfort.

I've worn my fair share of heavy, uncomfortable Gi's. Stiff, rigid drawstrings that press into your back when playing guard and stiff collars that rub on your neck with any movement. It’s time to find a new Gi brand that won’t cause any issues.

So, I've compiled the best BJJ Gi's for every situation, from competition to being lightweight, even if you're on a budget.

Best BJJ Gi

XMartial Prime BJJ Gi

XMartial are well-known for their unique rash guard and shorts designs. But they also make excellent Gi’s at a modest price. Weighing in at 380 gsm, it's incredibly lightweight as many traditional Gi’s have a 450 gsm weight, making you feel agile and almost invincible on the mat.

This doesn’t compromise on durability. This Gi is constructed from 100% single pearl weave cotton, a fabric known for its resilience as it is not blended with polyester.

So, you get the speed and flexibility to execute complex moves and can withstand the rigors of intense sparring sessions.

The single pearl weave cotton is another standout feature. It's soft against the skin, breathable, and incredibly comfortable. I don’t feel any rough fabric against my skin.

The fabric also has excellent moisture-wicking properties, keeping you dry even during the most intense rolls.

Now, let's talk about the cord drawstring. It may seem minor, but anyone whose pants come loose in the middle of a match knows the importance of a reliable drawstring.

My first Gi had a nonstretchy rope as a drawstring, which sucked. It hurt when lying on it, and it was hard to get tight.

The cord drawstring on this Gi is robust and stays put, ensuring that you're not left in an awkward situation.

Moreover, this Gi comes with the approval of major Jiu-Jitsu federations like NABJJF, SJJIF, and IBJJF.

So, you're getting a practice Gi and a competition-ready Gi. One of the biggest problems I've faced with other Gis is the trade-off between comfort and durability. With the XMartial Prime BJJ Gi, that's no longer an issue.

You get the best of both worlds: comfort without sacrificing performance. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a white belt just starting your journey, this Gi will not disappoint.

Best Lightweight BJJ Gi For Hot Weather

Gold BJJ Aeroweave Ultralight Gi

The Gold BJJ Aeroweave Ultralight Gi is a game-changer. It's the lightest Gi I've ever worn, with a 40% weight reduction compared to a standard pearl weave cotton Gi.

It's feather-light, allowing smoother and swifter transitions during rolling and sparring. This is a considerable advantage to hot gyms and climates that might find traditional, heavier Gis cumbersome, restrictive, and prone to overheating.

But keep the lightweight nature of this Gi from fooling you into thinking it's not durable. With a 275gsm weight classification, it's designed to be resilient.

The 10 oz ripstop pants add to this durability while maintaining the Gi's overall lightness. It's a balance that few Gis offer, making it a standout choice for beginners and seasoned practitioners.

One of the most dreaded aspects of buying a new Gi is the post-purchase shrinking surprise. The Gold BJJ Aeroweave Ultralight Gi comes pre-shrunk, so what you try on is what you get, even after multiple washes.

This important feature can't be overstated, saving you from the hassle of returns or exchanges.

Another feature that caught my eye was the EVA bolstered collar. It provides the sturdy grip point needed during rolls but without the bulkiness that comes with some other collars.

The cuffs of this Gi are lined with ripstop, and feature reinforced stitching at all high-stress points. This indicates that the Gi is designed to withstand even the most strenuous BJJ sessions.

It's a testament to the thoughtfulness of the design, ensuring that the Gi is lightweight and long-lasting.

Best Budget BJJ Gi

Elite Sports BJJ Gi

Regarding budget, this is one of the cheapest Gi's you'll get your hands on. But there are the tradeoffs you make when going for budget options.

The Elite Sports BJJ Gis has a 400 gsm weight, making it slightly heavier and thicker. It’s made from a blend of 60% cotton and 40% polyester in a pearl weave. It's less durable than the pure cotton XMartial and Gold BJJ Gis.

Further, my Elite BJJ Gi jacket was way too small. It was an A3 like my other Gi's but I couldn't bring my arms in front of me. You may need to size up.

One positive is the Elite Sports BJJ Gi comes pre-shrunk. So, you can bid farewell to the dreaded post-wash size surprise. What you see is what you get, and it stays that way.

The IBJJF approval is like the cherry on top. You're getting a practice Gi and a competition-ready uniform at a budget price.

If this is your first Gi, it also comes with a free white belt, so you don't need to purchase it separately.

Best BJJ Gi For Competition

Revgear Venice Top Of The Line Gi

Weighing in at 450 gsm, it's a bit heavier than other Gis, but don't let that fool you.

The weight adds a layer of durability essential for intense competitions, and it's still agile enough to not hold you back during crucial moments.

The Revgear Venice Gi is made from pearl weave 100% cotton, the Gi offers a level of comfort that's hard to match. It's breathable and soft against the skin, and the weave pattern provides that extra bit of tensile strength.

One of the standout features is that it comes pre-shrunk. We all know the hassle of buying a Gi that fits perfectly in the store, only to shrink it to a smaller size after the first wash.

Let's talk about the pants—crafted from 10-oz ripstop fabric. They're designed to withstand the rigors of intense grappling.

The incredibly durable material offers a perfect balance that complements the top. You can slide, roll, and execute complex ground moves without worrying about wear and tear.

The cherry on top? It's IBJJF-approved. You're not just getting a practice Gi; you're getting a competition-ready uniform.

This is especially beneficial if you're someone who's into competitive Jiu-Jitsu. You don't have to buy a separate Gi just for competitions; this one covers you for both practice and the real deal.

Best Beginner BJJ Gi

Sanabul Essentials BJJ Gi

Weighing in at just 350 gsm, it's incredibly lightweight, making it perfect for those just stepping into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

The price also makes it beginner-friendly, being one of the cheapest available on par with Elite Sports and Hawk.

It’s made from single weave, 100% cotton, and incredibly comfortable. It's breathable and soft against the skin, and the single weave ensures it's not too heavy, making it ideal for extended training sessions.

You can literally spend hours on the mat without feeling bogged down, which is a huge plus for beginners who are still getting used to the physical demands of BJJ.

One of the best features? It comes pre-shrunk. It's a time-saver and offers peace of mind, especially for beginners who may not be familiar with the nuances of Gi care.

It's also IBJJF-approved. This is a big deal because it means this Gi isn't just for practice; it's also competition-ready.

You're getting a Gi that can transition with you from your first roll to your first competition without having to invest in another set of gear.

The Sanabul Essential BJJ Gi also comes with a free belt. For someone just starting, this is a godsend. It saves you the extra cost and time of purchasing a belt separately. It's like Sanabul has thought of everything a beginner would need to start their BJJ journey.

Best BJJ Gi For Big Guys

Hawk BJJ Gi

Why is the Hawk BJJ Gi the ideal Gi for bigger guys? Because the fit is a little bigger for a given size accommodating larger grapplers.

The Hawk BJJ Gi is made from 100% pearl weave cotton with 350 gsm, making it relatively lightweight.

The triple seam and reinforced slots are another godsend. Do you know how some Gis fray at the edges after a few sessions? Not this one.

The pants are made with 10 oz ripstop fabric, and the collars are EVA rubber. It's a good option for bigger grapplers at a budget price. However, the drawstring cord is not elastic and is rigid, making it comfortable when lying on your back.

Best Women’s BJJ Gi

Gold BJJ Aeroweave Ultralight Women’s Gi

This Gold BJJ Aeroweave Ultralight Women's Gi is the same as the men's Gi, sporting an ultralight 275 gsm 100% pearl weave cotton fabric, EVA bolstered collar, pre-shrunk, and IBJJF approval.

So what makes it a women's Gi? It's a specific women's cut, so it's more comfortable and doesn’t look like you’re wearing a cheap suit.

Best Looking BJJ Gi

SHOGUN Fight Jiu Jitsu Tao Premium Gi

Starting with the standout feature: the dye-sublimated rash guard liner. This is not just for show; it serves a functional purpose.

The liner wicks away sweat, keeping you dry and comfortable during intense rolls. Plus, it adds a layer of cushion that minimizes the friction between the Gi and your skin.

But the design is what stands out. The liner design is unlike any Gi design I’ve ever seen. Seriously, check them out for yourself. While the design is epic, the Gi is also high-quality.

It has a 450 gsm pearl weave cotton build, slightly heavier than the XMartial and Gold BJJ Gi's.

The pants are made of ripstop sturdy cotton, designed specifically for grappling. If you've ever had a pants tear in the middle of a roll, you know how crucial this is. The ripstop weave ensures that even if a tear starts, it won't continue.

The drawstring waist closure is another feature that shouldn't be overlooked. It's simple but effective. No more fumbling with complicated knots or worrying about your pants slipping down. Just pull, tie, and you're good to go.

How To Buy The Best BJJ Gi

Picking the right BJJ Gi won't instantly make you better, but having something comfortable will save you unnecessary nuisances. 

Different Gis cover different ranges of requirements, budgets, and preferences, so it's important to be well-informed on the options before buying the best Gi for your needs.

Material & Weave

The material and weave of the Gi are of the utmost importance, and cotton is king. Premium Gis are generally 100% cotton, while budget models are made with a blend of cotton and polyester.

You can also find some Gis made from hemp, bamboo, or other exotic materials, but they are rare. Cotton provides softness and breathability and is widely available, while the way it’s woven allows the fabric to hold together for a long time.

Each Gi has a weave style, meaning the way the fabric is stitched together. Each weave has a name and a distinctive look with different properties and weights. Here are the main weave types:

Single Weave

Single weave is the most basic and inexpensive type. Single weave Gis are lightweight and the most affordable, but the drawback is that they are not as durable as other weaves.

The reason to go for a single weave Gi is if you live and train in a very hot area and need a thin Gi; otherwise, it's better to go for a different type, which will last much longer and look better.

Double Weave

As the name suggests, the double weave has twice the number of threads as a single weave Gi. This makes it more robust but also heavier than other weaves.

Double weave Gis also have higher price tags, but they can be worth it in the long run. The extra weight makes them less popular than the other styles mentioned here, but some prefer them.

Gold Weave

The gold weave stands in between single and double weaves and looks to take the best aspects of both. It is much more robust and reliable than a single weave while having a lower weight than a double weave.

The appearance is square-ladder-like and is usually reserved for premium gis. You won't regret the purchase if you are deeper in your BJJ journey and have the extra buck for a gold weave Gi.

Pearl Weave

Pearl weave is the most common type used today because it’s even lighter than gold weave but almost as strong.

Pearl weave jackets are a great combination of weight, durability, and comfort, and the name comes from the look of the weave, which strongly resembles thousands of small "pearls" arranged in lines. The pearl weave also allows for better airflow and breathability.

Ripstop Fabric

Typically, ripstop materials are used only in pants, which differ significantly from the cotton weaves of jackets.

Ripstop can be made from blends of different materials like cotton, silk, polyester, and nylon.

Ripstop is woven thinner than jackets with stronger reinforcement fibers, which makes it durable and gives it its distinctive look.

Weight

The weight of the gi is usually in direct correlation with the weave and is one of the decisive factors for most people.

Gi can be lightweight, mediumweight, or heavyweight, and most people develop a taste for one of the types, usually light or middleweight.

Very often, in the description of the gi, you will find the term GSM, which means grams per square meter. GSM measures the weight of the fabric per square meter, so the higher the score, the heavier and more durable the Gi will be. 

For example, lightweight Gis sits around 275–425 GSM, while midweight Gis are about 550 GSM.

The heavier the gi, the more durable it is because of the nature of the extra fabric weave.

Lightweight Gi are often used for competition because they help athletes make the scale easier. When you are right at the division's weight limit, the 1 lb difference in the gi can be decisive.

Because lightweight Gis are generally less durable, they are unsuitable for everyday training because they will tear up much faster.

Heavier Gis are also harder to grip, so this may be a slight advantage for you should you pick one.

Another thing you must consider when choosing a Gi is where you regularly train. A heavyweight Gi will make your life miserable if it's in a hot area and your gym doesn't believe in using AC during practice.

On the other hand, in places with harsh winters, it may be exactly what you need for the cold months.

Sizing & Fit

The IBJJF is the largest organization hosting tournaments in a Gi, and they have a lot of requirements regarding materials, length, width, lapel thickness, opening of sleeves, and a few other criteria you can find here.

Most manufacturers have this in mind and make their Gis IBJJF legal, which is always noted in the sales description.

Standard adult sizing runs from A0 to A6, sometimes adding more letters after the number. The general practice among all brands is to have weight and height recommendations for each size written in a table.

When you get the right size, the fit in an IBJJF legal gi will generally be settled. But some brands produce Gis designed for people with a more specific build, like long and lanky dudes or short and muscular ones.

For example, you can find an "L" at the end of the size, which means the Gi is a longer version than normal.

Options like "slim" and "tall" also exist in some brands, while "H" for heavy can be found for those on the other side of the spectrum. More expensive gi usually have more sizing options than budget ones.

A practical way to figure out the right size when you fall in between sizes is to try on the Gi of your teammate, but this is not always possible.

Another important point I have to make here is gi shrinkage. Because gis are either fully cotton or at least a blend with a significant cotton percentage, the fabric will shrink in the beginning with the first few washes. Depending on the type of weave, this can be 1 to 2 inches.

More expensive Gis are often preshrunk, which does not completely eliminate the shrinkage after use but significantly reduces it.

Color

Traditional Gis were all white, but now there are a myriad of colors available.

While you can train with a kaki or pink gi or even with a non-matching jacket and pants, you will have to wear a legal gi if you compete.

Aside from many other criteria, the only colors the IBJJF allows are white, black, and royal blue. So, if you are a beginner, the safe bet is to go for one of the 3 colors.

Price

BJJ Gis can be separated into 3 tiers of prices:

Budget Gis have more basic weaves and designs. They are perfect for beginners who want to avoid investing in something they are not sure will use for very long. 

Cheaper Gis have fewer embroideries and patches and often include a free white belt.

More expensive Gis naturally have better weaves, making them more durable and better feeling.

Entering the high tier, you will not necessarily find better quality in a $200 Gi compared to a $150 Gi, but the difference is often in the form of some unique designs, patches, branding, and logos.

As with all premium products, they look and feel better but do not offer any tangible benefits outside of this.

The differences between a $70 and a $120 Gi are much more significant, and the more expensive one will have much better fabric and construction. I advise going for a mid-tier Gi, as it's worth it long term.

Frequently Asked BJJ Gi Questions

What BJJ Gi Does Joe Rogan Use?

Joe Rogan has been using different Gis throughout his long years of BJJ practice, but more recently, he has expressed his satisfaction with the Datsuhara hemp Gi on his podcast.

According to Rogan, the fabric is indestructible, and naturally, it comes at a premium price tag. Datsuhara also offers the in-a version with JRE patches on it.

Does Gi Color Matter?

In most places, the color of your Gi for training does not matter. However, depending on the belt rank, some places may have specific requirements for the Gi color, so the safest bet for a travel Gi is white.

For IBBJF competitions, the allowed colors are only white, black, and royal blue.

Should You Wear Anything Under Your Gi?

Many grapplers wear rash guards under their Gi jackets for added protection from germs and to keep some of the sweat away from the many martial artists wear rash guards beneath their Gi jackets expensive Gis.

It should be noted that men are not permitted to wear anything under their jackets in IBJJF events, while for women, it's mandatory to have a skin-tight top underneath the Gi. Under your Gi pants, you can wear spats or leggings for women.

As stated, this is not authorized for males during IBJJF events, but it is permitted for ladies as long as they are no longer than the Gi trousers.

Last but not least, undergarments should always be worn beneath your Gi, and the IBJJF also has its own set of rules for this.

Can You Wash Your Blue Gi With A White Gi?

Good quality Gis usually don't bleed color after the first couple of washes, and you can wash together a white and a blue one. But make sure you've washed the blue one a couple of times before you put white clothes with it.

Summary

The XMartial Prime Gi is our best BJJ Gi because of its mix of durability and being relatively light. However, if you're after an ultra-lightweight Gi, Gold BJJ has the lightest I've worn. Revgear makes an excellent heavier competition Gi.