Gearing Up

Choosing the right gi is crucial, especially ensuring it fits properly. Gis can vary in fit, offering options from loose to snug. Too much fabric can give opponents more to grab during matches, while a too-tight gi can restrict movement, affecting your performance, especially in complex positions.

Length is equally important, especially for serious training or competition where rules prohibit excessively long sleeves or pants. Overly long gis can hinder movement and make you easier to control.

To select the correct size, consider the range from I (infant) to A (adult), with numerical sizes like 0 to 6. Most adults find themselves in the A2 or A3 range, but variations like half-sizes or extra lengths cater to different body shapes. Consulting size charts from manufacturers helps ensure the right fit. Remember, gis often shrink slightly, so washing in cold water and air-drying overnight is recommended to minimize shrinkage.

You can find gis in a wide range of colors, but for competitions and many gyms, there are restrictions. While green, pink, or yellow gis might be appealing, the safest options—black, blue, or classic white—are typically allowed. Some traditional academies may only permit white gis.

Finding the right weave for your gi is straightforward. For beginners, a normal single weave is practical—it’s affordable, lightweight, and easy to replace when worn out. It’s ideal for staying cool during summer training and weighing in for competitions.

Double weave gis, as the name suggests, are twice as thick and durable but come at a higher cost and take longer to dry due to their thickness. If you train daily with only one gi, it may still be damp the next day.

Other weaves like pearl, honeycomb, and gold blends offer durability similar to double weaves but with the lightness of single weaves. These are pricier and favored by dedicated practitioners who trust specific brands and models.

Some gis are labeled with GSM (Grams per Square Meter), indicating fabric weight, though this doesn’t always correlate with overall gi weight due to other factors.

When choosing a gi, look beyond its outward appearance. Durability is key, influenced by factors like weave, training intensity, and maintenance. Focus on reinforced areas such as cuffs, knees, armpits, and collar edges, which should have extra stitching and layers to prevent early wear. A cheap gi without these reinforcements may not last long under regular use.

Another critical consideration is the collar fill material. Traditional fabric-filled collars are common, but some prefer foam-like rubber inserts for their thickness, quick drying, and competition advantage in grip strength.

Experienced jiu jitsu practitioners often own multiple gis for both performance and aesthetics. Brands like Atama, Fuji, and Keiko offer traditional cuts, while Tatami, Scramble, and BJJ Religion favor modern styles. While style doesn’t impact performance significantly, feeling confident in your gi can be a mental boost during matches.

For those who enjoy standing out, deluxe and limited edition gis are available, appealing to high-level competitors and collectors alike. Some brands even offer customization options for colors, weaves, and other features at an additional cost.