Introduction
For those who take the sport seriously, like competing in BJJ tournaments, having a high-quality gi is an absolute must. A good gi will make sure you're comfortable and able to execute your moves without any wardrobe malfunctions.
Plus, no one wants to be that person whose gi falls apart in the middle of a match and has to fight in their underwear. Trust me, it's not a good look. So, if you're serious about taking your BJJ game to the next level, invest in a gi that's just as tough as you are.
What to Look for in a BJJ Gi for Competition
When it comes to choosing a gi for a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition, it can be a bit overwhelming. But don't worry, I got you covered.
Material Of BJJ Gi
The material a competition Gi is composed of is one of the key elements that determines how much it weighs, how durable it is and its cost. Gis are most frequently made of cotton, pearl weave, and gold weave.
It should be lightweight because no one wants to fight in a sauna suit. But just because it's lightweight, doesn't mean it should be flimsy as a wet noodle. It should be durable and reinforced in all the right places so you can handle all the pulling, tugging and twisting that comes with BJJ.
Competition Gis made of cotton are often the least expensive choice, but they are also frequently the heaviest and least resilient. Gis made of pearl weave are higher grade since they are lighter and tougher than cotton Gis.
Additionally, they cost more than cotton Gis. Gis made of gold weave are the greatest choice since they provide the optimum weight and durability ratio. They are also the priciest option. In general, the price of the Gi increases with the quality of the material.
IBJJF Approved BJJ Gi
Next, you want to make sure the gi is IBJJF approved. It's like showing up to a fancy nightclub in sweatpants and a t-shirt, you're not getting in. And last but not least, the fit. It should be like Goldilocks and the three bears, not too loose, not too tight, just right.
Size Of BJJ Gi
The size of BJJ Gi is also an important factor to consider. As a competitor, you want something that not only makes you look good but also fits you well and improves your performance. If it's too loose you'll look like you're wearing a tent, if it's too tight you'll look like a sausage ready to burst. So, try on a few different sizes and styles and find the one that fits you like a glove.
With these key points in mind, you'll find a gi that not only looks great but also performs well on the mat.
Fit Of BJJ Gi
The most important thing here is to buy a gi that is made from pre-shrunk fabric because shrinking can affect the size of your BJJ Gi. If you buy a gi of preshrunk fabric, you won’t have to worry about the fabric shrinking after a wash and causing fit issues, such as restricting movement in your shoulders, hips and knees.
There is nothing more frustrating than rolling at a competition in a tight, poorly-fitted gi which affects your ability to move. It’s almost useless!
Quality Of BJJ Gi
When it comes to BJJ Gis for competition, quality is king. And just like a king, it comes with a price tag. Typically, the cheaper priced gi’s are heavier in weight and missing some important features which greatly impact the quality and longevity of the Gi. As a competitor, it’s best to stay away from those. But the mid-range and high-end gi’s are usually the lightest, best quality and will last you the longest.
Here are some things to look for in a good-quality gi:
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Gi’s made according to IBJJF’s specifications - So you don’t get disqualified in competition
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Gi’s are made from pre-shrunk fabric - So you won’t have to worry about the fabric shrinking after a wash and not fitting you anymore.
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Gi’s that are made of fabric treated to resist the build-up of bacteria and fungus - This means that your Gi will stay fresh and you will not have to worry about skin infections or odours.
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Reinforced with extra layers in all the right places (collar, sleeves, crotch and knees) - So you can train as hard as you want without having to worry about your Gi ripping.
Made from light yet strong material (450gsm pearl weave and ripstop pants) - So you can train for longer durations without the Gi feeling heavy or hot.
Color Of BJJ Gi
The color of a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) gi is important for competition because it signifies the rank and experience of the competitor. In general, white gis are worn by beginners and lower-ranked competitors, while blue, purple, brown, and black gis are reserved for more experienced and higher-ranked competitors.
BJJ competitions typically require competitors to wear gis that meet certain specifications, including color, fabric, and patch placement. Wearing a gi that does not meet these requirements can result in disqualification from the competition.
In addition to meeting competition requirements, the color of a BJJ gi can also affect a competitor's performance. Some competitors believe that wearing a darker-colored gi can make it more difficult for their opponent to grip and control them, while others prefer lighter colors for increased mobility and comfort.
Conclusion
There are a few important factors to take into account while buying a competition gi for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. To withstand the rigours of competition, it's critical to seek for a gi that is constructed from lightweight yet sturdy material and has reinforced stress points. Additionally, it is essential to make sure that the gi has IBJJF approval because in order to participate in some competitions, you must follow their uniform regulations. The right fit is also crucial because a gi that is too loose or too tight might limit your mobility and hinder the way you can use techniques.