What Gi Should I Buy as a Beginner?

3 min readbeginner

Quick Answer: For your first gi, buy a simple, mid-range white gi ($80-120) from a reputable brand. Don't overthink it - your first gi's job is to survive training while you figure out your preferences.

The Short Answer

For your first gi, buy a simple, mid-range white gi ($80-120) from a reputable brand. Don't overthink it - your first gi's job is to survive training while you figure out your preferences.

What to Look For

Material Weight

Gis come in different weights, measured in GSM (grams per square meter):

| Weight | GSM | Best For | |--------|-----|----------| | Light | 350-450 | Hot climates, travel, competitors cutting weight | | Medium | 450-550 | All-around use, most popular | | Heavy | 550+ | Durability, colder climates |

For beginners, medium weight is the safe choice.

Color

Most gyms have color policies. When in doubt:

White - Universally accepted, IBJJF legal for all belts
Blue - Usually accepted, IBJJF legal
Black - Usually accepted, IBJJF legal
Other colors - Check with your gym first

Pre-Shrunk vs. Not

Some gis come pre-shrunk. Others shrink 1-2 sizes when washed. Check the product description and size accordingly.

Price Ranges

Budget ($50-80)

Functional but may not last as long
Good for trying BJJ before investing more
Examples: Sanabul, Elite Sports

Mid-Range ($80-150)

Best value for beginners
Good durability and comfort
Examples: 93 Brand, Tatami, Kingz, Fuji

Premium ($150-250+)

Boutique designs, advanced features
Not necessary for beginners
Buy once you know what you like

Beginner-Friendly Brands

Sanabul

Affordable, decent quality. Great starter gis.

Fuji

Reliable mid-range option. Been around forever.

93 Brand

Good quality, reasonable prices, simple designs.

Tatami

Solid reputation, wide range of options.

Kingz

Quality construction, good for beginners and beyond.

What to Avoid

Judo Gis

They fit differently and may not be IBJJF legal for BJJ competitions.

Cheap No-Name Gis

They fall apart quickly and aren't worth the savings.

Fashion Over Function

Save the flashy $300 gi for later. Your first gi will get destroyed in training.

Buying Multiple Gis at Once

You don't know your preferences yet. Buy one, train in it, then decide what you want in your second.

Sizing Tips

Measure Yourself

Know your height and weight. Most brands have detailed size charts.

Consider Shrinkage

If not pre-shrunk, size up and shrink it. If pre-shrunk, buy your actual size.

Fit Matters

Sleeves should end at your wrist. Pants should end above your ankles. The jacket shouldn't be too baggy or too tight.

Ask Around

Your training partners can recommend sizing for specific brands.

Where to Buy

Online

Brand websites
Amazon (check seller reputation)
BJJ specialty sites (BJJHQ, RollMore, Fighters Market)

In Person

Your gym's pro shop
Local martial arts stores

Online often has better prices, but in-person lets you feel the material.

Taking Care of Your Gi

Wash After Every Training

Always. No exceptions. Your training partners will thank you.

Cold Water, Air Dry

Hot water and dryers destroy gis and cause excessive shrinking.

Don't Leave It in Your Bag

Wet gis grow mold and smell terrible. Take it out immediately after training.

The Bottom Line

Your first gi should be:

Affordable enough that you won't cry when it gets beat up
Durable enough to last a year of training
From a reputable brand

As you train more, you'll develop preferences for weight, cut, and style. Then you can invest in fancier options.

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