What Gear Do I Need to Start BJJ?

The Short Answer

To start BJJ, you only need: a gi (or rash guard + shorts for no-gi), and that's it. Everything else is optional but can enhance your training experience.

Essential Gear

For Gi Training

• BJJ Gi ($50-150)
  • Many gyms have loaners for your first class
  • Buy a beginner-friendly brand once you commit

For No-Gi Training

• Rash Guard ($20-50)

  • Tight-fitting athletic shirt
  • Protects against mat burn and skin infections

• Grappling Shorts or Spats ($25-50)

  • Board shorts work initially
  • No pockets, zippers, or loose materials that can catch fingers

Basics

• Training Bag
  • Something to carry your gear
  • Ventilated/mesh bags help with drying

Highly Recommended

Mouthguard ($5-100)

• Protects your teeth and jaw
• Custom-fitted ones are better but basic boil-and-bite works
• Especially important for competition

Ear Guards ($15-40)

• Prevents cauliflower ear
• Many people skip these and some develop ear issues
• Consider if you're training frequently

Athletic Tape ($5-10)

• For taping fingers and toes
• Almost every BJJ practitioner uses this
• White cloth tape is standard

Flip Flops/Sandals

• Wear off the mats (bathroom, outside)
• Never walk on mats with shoes that touched the floor
• Prevents bringing bacteria onto the mats

Nice to Have

Knee Pads ($20-40)

• Protects knees during guard work
• Helpful if you have sensitive knees
• Some find them too bulky

Compression Shorts

• Worn under gi pants or grappling shorts
• Prevents chafing
• Some prefer to go without

Multiple Gis/Rash Guards

• Eventually you'll want backups
• Allows time for washing/drying between sessions

Gear Bag Accessories

• Deodorizers
• Microfiber towel
• Small first aid kit

Training Accessories

Notebook ($5)

• Take notes after class
• Track techniques, questions, progress
• Underrated training tool

Grip Strengtheners ($10-20)

• Optional but can help with grip endurance
• Your grip will develop naturally from training too

Nail Clippers

• Keep nails short
• It's common courtesy to training partners
• Long nails cause scratches and mat return-itis

What to Skip (For Now)

Expensive Premium Gis

Wait until you know your preferences.

Full Protective Gear (Headgear, etc.)

See if you actually need it first.

BJJ-Specific Shoes

BJJ is done barefoot. Shoes are only for off-mat.

Every Training Gadget

Focus on training. Gear won't make you better.

Gear Checklist by Training Type

Gi Class

• [ ] Gi (jacket and pants)
• [ ] Belt (usually comes with gi)
• [ ] Rash guard or t-shirt (optional, worn under gi)
• [ ] Flip flops
• [ ] Water bottle
• [ ] Towel

No-Gi Class

• [ ] Rash guard
• [ ] Grappling shorts or spats
• [ ] Flip flops
• [ ] Water bottle
• [ ] Towel

Competition

All the above plus:

• [ ] Mouthguard
• [ ] Extra gi/rash guard (in case one fails inspection)
• [ ] IBJJF-approved gear (check color requirements)
• [ ] Tape
• [ ] Snacks and hydration

Hygiene Essentials

Always Bring

• Shower supplies (if showering at gym)
• Deodorant
• Change of clothes

Always Do

• Wash gi after every training (no exceptions)
• Shower after training
• Keep nails trimmed
• Don't train if you have skin infections

Budget Starter Kit

If money is tight, here's the minimum:

1. Borrowed or cheap gi - $50 or loaner
2. Flip flops - $5
3. Water bottle - $5
4. Bag - $10 or any bag you have

Total: Under $75 to start

The Bottom Line

Don't let gear be a barrier to starting. Most gyms are welcoming to beginners with minimal equipment. Start with the essentials and add gear as you learn what you actually need for your training style.