How to Choose Your First BJJ Gi

How to Choose Your First BJJ Gi

Buying your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gi can feel more complicated than it needs to be. The right choice is usually a clean, comfortable gi that fits the rules of the class you are joining and lets you move easily.

At The Kodokan, you do not need to arrive with perfect kit. Ask us before buying if you are unsure. We would rather help you choose once than see you spend money on something that does not suit your training.

Choosing your first BJJ gi

Different academies and competitions can have different rules about colour, patches and fit. Before you order, ask whether a white, blue or black gi is suitable for your class, and whether there are any restrictions on branding.

For a first gi, a simple, well-made option is usually the most useful. It should be clean, practical and comfortable rather than expensive for the sake of it.

Focus on fit, not the label

A BJJ gi needs to allow you to squat, reach, grip and move without feeling tight across the shoulders or hips. Sleeves and trousers should not be excessively long or short.

Size charts are useful, but they are only a starting point. If you are between sizes, contact the supplier or speak to us about how the cut is likely to feel. A gi can also shrink after washing, so always follow the care instructions.

Choose a weight that suits your training

Lighter gis can feel cooler and dry more quickly. Heavier gis can feel more substantial and durable. Neither is automatically better.

For regular club training, choose a weight you can wash and dry reliably between sessions. A clean gi is part of looking after your training partners.

Keep the first purchase simple

Your first gi does not need every feature. Prioritise:

• A comfortable, sensible fit.

• Strong stitching in high-use areas.

• A colour accepted by your academy.

• Care instructions you can follow.

• Enough budget for a second wash cycle or a second gi later.

Avoid buying something that is very tight, heavily personalised or designed only for a specific competition rule set until you know what you enjoy training in.

Care matters as much as the purchase

Wash your gi after every session and allow it to dry fully. Keep your belt and rashguard clean too. Trim your nails, wear footwear off the mats and speak up early if you have a skin concern or an injury that affects training.

Good kit habits make the mat safer and more comfortable for everyone.

Need help before your first class?

If you are starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in London, you can ask us what is suitable before you buy anything. Book a complimentary Introduction or check the class schedule, and we will help you prepare for your first session.