How to Choose a BJJ Gi: Sizing, Weave, and What to Actually Buy

Quick answer: For your first BJJ gi, buy a single-weave or lightweight pearl-weave gi in white, blue, or black, in your correct A-size (based on height and weight). Don't overspend — a reliable beginner gi runs roughly $80–$130. Skip ultra-heavy "competition" gis and trendy colors until you know you'll stick with it.

Your gi is the one real purchase you need to start Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and the options can be overwhelming: weaves, weights, sizes, brands, and price tags from $70 to $300. Here's how to cut through it and buy a gi you'll actually be happy training in.

Understanding gi sizing (A1, A2, A3...)

BJJ gis use a sizing system based on the letter A plus a number — A0 (smallest) up through A5 and beyond, with F-sizes for women and M/C-sizes for kids. The size is determined mostly by your height and weight together, not just one or the other.

Every brand publishes a sizing chart, and you should always check it, because an A2 in one brand can fit differently than an A2 in another. As a rough guide:

• A1 — around 5'4"–5'7", 130–155 lbs

• A2 — around 5'7"–5'10", 155–185 lbs

• A3 — around 5'10"–6'1", 185–215 lbs

When you're between sizes, factor in shrinkage: cotton gis shrink a little, especially if you ever use warm water or a dryer. Most people size to fit slightly long out of the bag, knowing it'll settle.

Gi weaves explained

The "weave" is how the jacket fabric is constructed, and it mostly affects weight and durability:

• Single weave — lighter and cheaper, great for beginners and hot gyms.

• Pearl weave — the modern standard: a good balance of light weight, durability, and IBJJF-legality. Most quality gis today are pearl weave.

• Gold/double weave — heavier and very durable, but hot and stiff. Usually overkill for a beginner.

For your first gi, a lightweight pearl weave is the sweet spot — durable enough to last, light enough to train comfortably.

What to spend

You do not need an expensive gi to train well. A solid beginner gi runs roughly $80–$130, and it will perform nearly identically to a $250 one on the mat. Spend your money on a second gi (so you always have a clean, dry one) before you spend it on a premium single gi. For the rest of the starter kit, see our BJJ gear for beginners guide.

Colors and competition legality

Three colors are universally accepted and IBJJF-legal: white, blue, and black. If you ever plan to compete, stick to those. Wild colors and heavy patches are fun but may not be allowed in tournaments, and some gyms have their own color rules — check before you buy if you're unsure.

Caring for your new gi

A good gi lasts years if you treat it right: wash it in cold water after every session and hang it to air-dry to prevent shrinkage and odor. Our full guide on how to wash a BJJ gi covers the details.

Common beginner mistakes

• Buying a heavy "competition" gi first — it's hot, stiff, and unnecessary for daily training.

• Guessing your size instead of checking the brand's chart.

• Buying three gis before your first class — get one, take a few classes, then invest.

• Choosing a color your gym or tournament won't allow.

The takeaway

For your first BJJ gi, buy a single or pearl-weave gi in white, blue, or black, sized off the brand's height-and-weight chart, for around $80–$130. Add a second affordable gi before you upgrade to a fancy one. Get those basics right and you'll have a comfortable, durable gi without overspending.

One gi or two?

If your budget allows, buy two affordable gis instead of one expensive one. BJJ is sweaty, gis take a day or more to air-dry, and training back-to-back days with a single gi means either a damp gi or a skipped wash — both bad ideas for hygiene. Two mid-range gis in rotation cost about the same as one premium gi, last longer because each gets more drying time, and guarantee you always have a clean, dry one ready. It's the single most practical gi-buying decision a new student can make.

Got your gi? Now find your gym

Find a BJJ gym near you on Let's Roll → — many gyms lend or rent gis for your first class, so you can try before you buy.

FAQ

What size BJJ gi should I get? Use the brand's height-and-weight chart rather than guessing — A1, A2, and A3 cover most adults, and sizing varies between brands.

What's the best gi weave for beginners? A lightweight pearl weave is the modern standard: durable, comfortable, and IBJJF-legal. Single weave is a fine, cheaper alternative.

How much should my first gi cost? Around $80–$130. Premium gis perform almost identically on the mat, so save the extra money for a second gi instead.

Can I wear any color gi? For training, usually yes, but check your gym's rules. For IBJJF competition, only white, blue, or black are allowed.