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Get The Right Gi for You

 

The uniform for brazilian Jiu Jitsu is referred to as a "Gi". They are a lightweight two-piece garment that typically consists of loose-fitting pants and a jacket that is closed with a cloth belt. There are other forms of martial arts that use the gi but they all have their differences, and for a reason. BJJ gi is generally more durable than any other gi because in BJJ there is constant grabbing and pulling. One cannot wear Judo or Karate gi while in BJJ for it will quickly become damaged. BJJ gi is designed to be more form fitting than most because it restricts your opponent from being able to grab on to you.

 

When you're buying gi, you're not just buying an outfit, you're buying a piece of equipment. Just how firefighters have their uniforms, or how doctors have their coats, BJJ fighters have their specific functional gear as well. So when purchasing one, you have to make sure its quality especially since you're going to be spending a lot of time in it rolling, kicking, grappling, bleeding, and sweating. It's going to be your exoskin so choose wisely.

Fitting

 

When acquiring BJJ gi, you have to make absolutely sure it fits you. Buying a gi that is too big will allow more ease for your opponent to be able to grab on to you for leverage, have more of a grip and/or pull on you. Proper fitting for bjj gis should go as such:

 

●       Gi cuff must sit right above the wrist bone or about 1.5 inches before or past the wrist bone.

 

●       Gi jacket must be able to completely close and overlap and must reach the top of your thighs in length.

 

●       Pants must be about 1.5 inches from your ankle bone.

 

●       Sleeve width should allow 4 fingers to go between your arm and your sleeve.

Durability

 

 

Your gi has to be thick and constructed out of cotton. and of the most important things when considering a gi is the type of weave it has. the weave determines how much material is used and how it sewn together. This will reflect on its weight, thickness, and durability. the thicker your gi is the harder it will be for you opponent to grab onto you. When it comes to this, bjj gis are going to differ in thickness depending on the weave so make sure you choose the right one for you.

 

●       There are single weaves, which are the beginners usually wear

●       Double weaves that makes your gi tough

●       Gold weaves that offer a more ventilated feel

●       Pearl weaves that are lightweight and thin.

●       Ripstop weaves which are quite thin but are very durable as the name suggests.

 

Color/Value

 

BJJ gis come in many different colors, and it is important to choose the appropriate color for the occasion. for competitions, the only approved colors are white, blue, and black. For training, there usually is no rule unless your specific gym has their own set rules. Just like every other gear meant for sports, it's great to be able to express yourself with your gi, especially when you have a child that is interested in the sport, their going to want all the colors and patches out there, kids bjj gis are usually cheaper due to being constructed thinner for their ease. However there are tiers. There are value gi's that are usually represented by brands like Fuji, Sanabul, and Tatami Nova. And there are premiums such as Shoryroll, Kingz Kimonos, and KillerBee. Regardless of the one you choose, always remember that it is how it fits and how it functions. Your gi is your exoskin, so choose wisely.

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