Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a dynamic and fast-growing martial art, attracting practitioners of all levels. One of the most common questions new students ask is, "What color Gi should I wear as a BJJ beginner?" It may seem like a simple choice, but the BJJ Gi is an essential part of training, symbolizing discipline and tradition.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the significance of Gi colors, look into the best options for beginners, and examine how your choice of a BJJ Gi can impact your training experience.
The Gi | History | Main Colors | Why the White Gi?
Understanding the BJJ Gi
The art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has grown in leaps and bounds, as the popularity of the ground fighting art has risen substantially. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a highly energetic, and systematic form of tactical combat. The fight for advantage consists of grip fighting, takedowns, positional control, transitional movements, and submission maneuvers.
There are two separate forms of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that athletes can train in; the Gi is a more traditional version, while the No Gi styling is a more modernised version of the art. Athletes that want to learn more detailed intricacies will learn how to wear a bjj gi, as the art of the Gi specialises in grip fighting.
Nowadays there is bold new innovation that has gone into Gi apparel, as the technological advancements are extremely beneficial to a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu athlete. Wearing a Gi can be suffocating at times, especially during the hotter months, or in a more humid climate. Athletes will need to know how should a bjj gi fit, and once they are acclimatised to wearing the stifling uniform, they will be able to function within the parameters of the Gi ruleset.
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These days Gi apparel comes in many different types of weave, from lightweight to the more expensive, and durable thicker Gi's.
Unlike other martial arts, where white or black uniforms are standard, BJJ Gis come in various colors. The white Gi is considered the most traditional. It offers a balance between tradition and modern style. The black Gi is often associated with advanced practitioners. Some traditional academies only allow white Gis for beginners.
Choosing Your First BJJ Gi Color
For BJJ beginners, the best bjj Gi color largely depends on academy rules, competition intentions, and personal preference. The safest choices are white, blue, or black.
White Gi:
- Represents tradition, formality, and discipline.
- In Japanese culture, white is the symbol of purity and truth.
- Depicts the mindset of a beginner.
- Represents uniformity and parity among fighters.
Blue or Black Gi:
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- Do not signify anything related to tradition or rank.
- Preferred because they look more modern, sleek, and nicer.
- Looks cleaner and sharper for a long time.
Well, of course, they can! White belts (beginners) are allowed to wear any color Gi they want because no rule within BJJ forbids this.
When selecting your first BJJ Gi, also consider factors like size, material, brand quality, and IBJJF regulations. This ensures that you get the best value for your investment. If you’re looking for the best BJJ Gi for beginners, check out reputable brands that offer durable, competition-ready Gis in white, blue, and black.
Gi Color and Competition Rules
Becoming a BJJ competitor isn't as simple as jumping in any old Gi, and stepping onto the mats. The IBJJF competition circuit has a bunch of strict rules, and regulations in place that all students must abide by. Competitors must wear a sanctioned competition Gi, which meets the standards of the IBJJF.
These sanctions include the right thickness of the lapel, as a Gi that does not comply will be rejected. Other sanctions include the sleeves must be of a certain length, as well as have enough slack, so that an opponent can easily grab hold of a pistol grip, or a pocket grip.
The IBJJF only allows competitors to wear three different coloured Gi's, and these are the traditional white, royal blue, and black. Gi jackets that have a different colour to the Gi pants, are also not permitted, along with Gi jackets that have a different coloured collar then that of the Gi. There are also rulings surrounding the size, and placement of all patches that are sewn onto a Gi jacket.
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As one of the most professional organisations in the world, the IBJJF has an extremely strict set of regulations that they are governed by. Some students may think their rules, and ideals are outdated, or old fashioned, but the traditional element within the IBJJF still remains as one of their core values. This concept makes them extremely proficient, and an iconic federation of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Here is a summary of the IBJJF Gi color rules:
- Allowed Colors: White, royal blue, and black.
- Jacket and Pants: Must be the same color.
- Collar: Must be the same color as the jacket.
- Patches: Specific rules regarding size and placement.
It is essential to check the specific competition rules as many governing bodies adhere to strict guidelines regarding acceptable gi colors. Following the gi color rules is crucial. Failure to comply may result in disqualification during tournaments or loss of points in competitive settings.
Gi Materials and Weaves
Gis are either 100% cotton or constructed from cotton blended with nylon or polyester. Some gis also come pre-shrunk.
- Cotton: A 100% cotton gi will typically be lightweight.
- Single weave: Weaving through one thread and under another, giving a smoother and more streamlined appearance. The most common of gi weaves, single weave tends to be the go-to for beginner and training gis.
- Double weave: Made by weaving through two sets of horizontal threads, double weave gis are often stiffer and heavier.
- Pearl weave: Vertically alternating looser and wider weaves with tighter and thinner weaves, giving the appearance of a string of pearls. The pearl weave is the most premium type of gi weave.
- Gold weave: Horizontally alternating looser and wider weaves with tighter and thinner weaves, giving the appearance of a ladder. Gold weave provides a lightweight yet durable construction that balances the need for mobility and long-lasting garments.
- Heavyweight: Heavyweight gis are ideal for long-lasting and durable protection during competition and training.
How Many Gis Do You Need?
It is quite common for new students to ask questions like how many bjj gi's should i own, and to that end a beginner really only needs one Gi to begin with. Once a student begins to train more comprehensively throughout their academies timetable, then they may need to think about upgrading their wardrobe, and adding in a few more Gi options. Students that train 3 to 5 days per week will need at least 3 different Gi's, so they don't have to rely solely on waiting for their Gi to dry after being washed.
Some students like to collect Gi's, and they can have upwards of 10, or 20 different types of Gi brands. These hardcore Jiu Jitsu fans will pull out the signature Gi's at seminars, or grading nights.
Maintaining Your Gi
One of the biggest problems that BJJ athletes May face is how to properly care for their Gi. Ideally all students should have a large range of Gi's, so they are never waiting for the only one they have to dry. Students must learn how to wash a jiu jitsu gi, as the importance of killing the bacteria that lives within the Gi, can prevent the risk of different types of infections.
Washing a Gi can be rather easy, as all the student needs to do is put the Gi in the washing machine, add the usual laundry detergent, or powder, and then add some fabric softener to make the Gi smell nicer, and feel softer. The crucial element is to wash the Gi in cold water, so that it does not shrink during its cycle.
Another important tip is to steer clear of using a dryer to dry a Gi after its initial wash. Using a dryer for too long on heat, will certainly shrink a Gi, and can possibly fade the colours too. There are other ways to dry a Gi that is just coming out of the washing machine, as the natural regime of hanging a Gi out is perfect. An important thing to remember, is to not hang the Gi in direct sunlight, as this will most certainly fade the Gi, leaving it stiff, and blotchy with colour.
Many students may wonder about the importance of washing a Gi, as the Gi is one of the biggest carriers of germs, and bacteria. These can cause extreme problems for an academy, as bacterias can turn into infections like staph, and ringworm. Bacteria can be transported many different ways like from the feet of an athlete, on their skin, or even under their fingernails.
This is why all students must use proper hygiene methods, to keep their bodies clean, keep their nails trimmed, and filed, and always wear shoes while they are off the mats. The most important notion is washing their Gi, and this must be done as soon as they get home from training, as it can be problematic to leave the Gi marinating in its own bacteria.
Another important aspect is to wash the belt at the same time as the Gi, because the belt is just a belt, and it does not carry any mystical power, instead it carries germs, and bacteria just like the Gi. Even though an academy will rigorously clean the mats with disinfectant, and bleach, bacteria can still be transported from student to student.
By choosing the right BJJ Gi, you’ll be well-prepared to begin your journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with confidence!