BJJ gi guide for brands and academies
A BJJ gi has to survive constant gripping and pulling, pass competition checks and still fit after washing. These are the choices that decide whether your gi works.
By Bolide Fight Gear · Updated
Competition rules in short
Under IBJJF rules a competition gi must be white, royal blue or black, with the jacket and trousers the same colour and the collar matching the jacket. The fabric must be cotton or cotton-like, woven and not stretchy. Patches are only allowed in set areas, and there are limits on collar thickness, sleeve length and trouser length. Always check the current IBJJF uniform rules before production.
Weaves
| Weave | What it's like |
|---|---|
| Pearl weave | The most popular: light, strong and breathable; good for training and competition |
| Gold weave | Softer and very durable, but heavier |
| Single weave | Light and affordable; good for beginners and hot climates |
| Double weave | Thick and heavy; very hard to grip and long-lasting |
Trousers are often cotton twill or ripstop for strength with less weight.
Shrinkage and sizing
Cotton shrinks in hot washes. Ask for pre-shrunk fabric and test it: wash and dry the sample the way customers will, then measure it against your size chart. Adult gis are usually sized A0 to A5 (with tall and wide variants), women's sizes F1 upwards and kids' M-sizes; every brand's chart differs, so publish yours clearly.
Collar, reinforcements and details
Specify the collar filling (rubber or EVA foam within rule limits), reinforced stress points at the armpits, skirt and knees, the drawstring or elastic waist, and inner taping. These details are where cheap gis fail first.
Branding
Embroidery and woven patches are the standard for gis; keep them in the areas competition rules allow. Inner taping and lapel embroidery are popular places for brand colours on competition-legal gis. See custom BJJ gis or design a gi.
Quick answers
What colours are allowed for an IBJJF competition gi?
White, royal blue or black, with the jacket and trousers the same colour.
Pearl weave or gold weave?
Pearl weave is lighter and the most common for training and competition. Gold weave is softer and more durable but heavier.
How do I stop a gi shrinking?
Use pre-shrunk fabric, wash in cold water and avoid hot tumble drying. Test-wash the sample before approving bulk.