BJJ Spats vs. Grappling Shorts: What to Wear for No-Gi Training

If you're new to No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, one of the first questions you'll have is what to wear. Should you train in BJJ spats, grappling shorts, or both?

The answer depends on your comfort, your academy's dress code, and your training style. Many athletes actually wear both together, combining the benefits of compression and durability.

In this guide, we'll compare BJJ spats and grappling shorts, explain when each is most useful, and help you choose the right gear for your next No-Gi session.

What Are BJJ Spats?

BJJ spats are compression leggings designed specifically for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and other grappling sports. They fit closely against the body and move with you during scrambles, guard work, and submissions.

Most athletes wear spats underneath grappling shorts, although some academies allow them to be worn on their own.

Best For

• No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
• Submission grappling
• Wrestling
• MMA training
• Recovery workouts

Benefits

• Compression support for muscles
• Reduced skin friction during grappling
• Helps minimize mat burn
• Stays in place during movement
• Comfortable for extended training sessions

What Are Grappling Shorts?

Grappling shorts are lightweight athletic shorts designed for the demands of No-Gi training. Unlike regular gym shorts, they feature reinforced seams, stretch panels, and a secure waistband to withstand constant movement.

They're built without pockets or exposed zippers, helping reduce the risk of snagging during training.

Best For

• No-Gi BJJ
• MMA
• Wrestling
• Grappling
• General combat sports training

Benefits

• Lightweight construction
• Excellent freedom of movement
• Durable materials
• Comfortable over compression gear
• Designed specifically for grappling

BJJ Spats vs. Grappling Shorts

Do You Need Both?

For many practitioners, yes.

A common setup for No-Gi training includes:

• BJJ spats underneath
• Grappling shorts on top
• A rash guard for the upper body

This combination provides compression, protection, and durability while allowing complete freedom of movement.

When Should You Wear Only Spats?

Training in only spats may be acceptable depending on your academy's rules.

You may choose spats alone if:

• Your gym allows it.
• You prefer maximum compression.
• You're doing solo drills or conditioning.
• You're training at home.

Always check your academy's dress code before arriving to class.

When Should You Wear Grappling Shorts?

Grappling shorts are often preferred when:

• Your academy requires shorts over compression gear.
• You want additional durability.
• You prefer a looser fit.
• You're combining grappling with striking or MMA training.

Many athletes wear the same grappling shorts across multiple combat sports.

How to Choose the Right Gear

Choose BJJ Spats If You:

• Prefer compression apparel.
• Want additional skin protection.
• Train No-Gi regularly.
• Value muscle support during longer sessions.

Choose Grappling Shorts If You:

• Prefer a lightweight fit.
• Need durable shorts for daily training.
• Train both MMA and BJJ.
• Want versatile training apparel.

Choose Both If You:

• Train several times each week.
• Want the most complete No-Gi setup.
• Appreciate both compression and durability.
• Want maximum comfort during long training sessions.

Tips for Caring for Your No-Gi Apparel

Proper care helps extend the life of your training gear.

After every class:

• Wash your spats and shorts as soon as possible.
• Air dry whenever recommended by the manufacturer.
• Avoid leaving sweaty gear inside your gym bag.
• Wash with similar athletic fabrics.
• Check care labels before machine drying.

Keeping your apparel clean also helps maintain hygiene during close-contact training.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wear BJJ spats without shorts?

Some academies allow it, while others require grappling shorts to be worn over compression gear. Always follow your gym's dress code.

Do BJJ spats prevent mat burn?

Yes. One of the biggest advantages of BJJ spats is providing a protective layer between your skin and the mats, helping reduce friction and mat burn.

Are grappling shorts different from regular gym shorts?

Yes. Grappling shorts are specifically designed for combat sports. They typically feature reinforced stitching, stretch panels, secure closures, and no pockets or exposed zippers.

Should beginners buy spats or grappling shorts first?

If you're just starting No-Gi training, grappling shorts are often the first purchase. As you train more regularly, adding BJJ spats provides additional comfort, compression, and skin protection.

Complete Your No-Gi Training Gear

The best No-Gi apparel depends on your training style, but many practitioners find that combining BJJ spats with grappling shorts gives them the ideal balance of comfort, durability, and mobility.

Complete your setup with a high-quality rash guard to help protect your skin, regulate comfort during training, and stay ready for every session on the mats.