The gi is the official uniform of every jiu-jitsu fighter. However, due to the exceptional variety of gis available, shopping for one can be overwhelming.
Regardless of whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, knowing where to start is half the battle.
Design-wise, every gi is made up of the same combination of pants paired with a short, kimono-like robe. However, in terms of materials, construction, and quality, there are vast differences to consider.
Choosing the right gi impacts comfort and performance, which makes the decision an important one. Fortunately, jiu-jitsu fighters can count on the durability and commitment to innovation of Hayabusa’s gi designs.
In this buying guide, we’re sharing types of jiu-jitsu gis to consider and our top recommendations so you can look and feel like a champion.
Why Your Gi Choice Matters
From a psychological standpoint, you want a gi that you feel comfortable and confident in, making it important to find the right fit and design to match your unique fighting style.
On the other hand, from a technical standpoint, gis are a strategic part of jiu-jitsu training and competition in terms of grip fighting and grappling.
Due to the rigorous nature of jiu-jitsu movements, it’s essential to find a gi that has the durability and breathability to carry you through intense training sessions.
BJJ Gi Types by Weight
There are several types of jiu-jitsu gis to choose from, starting with weight and what environment they’re best for, to help you make a decision.
Lightweight Gis
A lightweight gi is 300-450 gsm (grams per square meter). The breathable comfort makes this option best to wear in hot climates and fighters who prioritize speed and agility when training.
Midweight Gis
A midweight gi is approximately 450-550 gsm and is the go-to choice for everyday training, thanks to its balanced durability and movement.
Heavyweight Gis
Heavyweight gis are 550+ gsm and provide maximum durability and competition-level grip control.
Heavier gis make it harder for opponents to grip and control sleeves and collars, so they can be part of a strategic advantage when competing.
Competition Gis
Speaking of competition, there are specific IBJJF requirements for fit, patches, and weave type.
Competition gis are often lightweight for weigh-ins, yet still maintain a premium level of durability to withstand several rounds of competition.
Different Gi Weaves Explained
Materials are different from the actual construction, which can be made up of several different types of jiu-jitsu gi weaves.
The weave contributes to how the uniform feels against the skin as well as its durability. Here are the characteristics to expect from each:
- Single Weave: Lightweight feel, typically more affordable, faster drying
- Double Weave: Heavy-duty weight, exceptional ruggedness, warmer to train in
- Gold Weave: A hybrid of single and double weaves, commonly used in competitions to gain advantages that both provide
- Pearl Weave: One of the most popular gi weaves today; lightweight yet durable and IBJJF-approved
Beginners typically stick with a single-weave gi to start, while more experienced practitioners prefer the look and feel of a gold or pearl weave design.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Gi for BJJ
No one gi weight or weave is better than the other – it all depends on the purpose for which you’re going to wear it.
Make sure to consider these factors when making your final choice.
Training vs. Competition
There’s a trade-off between comfort and strategic grip prevention when choosing between a lightweight vs. heavyweight gi for everyday training and when entering competition.
Though it’s not a hard and fast rule to go for a heavier gi when competing, keep in mind how you can use your uniform to your advantage, and also, what the IBJJF requirements call for.
Climate and Training Frequency
Training in a hot gym with little air circulation? It’s best to stick with a lightweight gi for body temperature regulation.
Alternatively, if you’re training in a cold environment, a heavier gi may feel more comfortable. You can also switch gi types between seasons.
Also, some practitioners wear lightweight gis for everyday training and a midweight or heavyweight gi when competing.
Fit and Size Adjustments
Take advantage of a brand’s size guidelines to secure your ideal fit. Having the correct sleeve and pant length is essential for safety and ease of movement.
Additionally, confirm the gi is made with quality materials to prevent shrinking and color fading after washing.
Hayabusa Gi Recommendations by Type
Looking for the best gi for BJJ? Hayabusa has you covered.
From lightweight, single-weave versions to competition gis with an iconic gold weave, you’ll find what you need to train and compete your best.
Hayabusa Lightweight Jiu Jitsu Gi
Hayabusa Ultra-Lightweight Jiu Jitsu Gi
Hayabusa Essential Gold Weave Jiu-Jitsu Gi
Hayabusa Lightweight Jiu Jitsu Gi
Best Lightweight Gi: Hayabusa Lightweight Gi
Don’t be fooled by the cool comfort the Lightweight Jiu-Jitsu Gi provides. It’s made with a 420-GSM pearl weave cotton top and ripstop cotton-polyester pants for unbeatable durability.
Jiu-jitsu practitioners appreciate the versatility of this all-purpose design. It helps keep fighters cool yet protected with reinforced lapels to withstand even the most intense training sessions.
It’s also made with pre-treated materials to prevent color fade; plus, it’s IBJJF-compliant, making you ready for competition.
Best Competition Gi: Hayabusa Gold Weave Gi
With a balance between strength and comfort, the best heavyweight gi is the Hayabusa Essential Gold Weave.
The heavy-duty construction and streamlined design offer the best of both worlds for performance and showmanship.
The durability and eye-catching style of the 550-GSM gold weave jacket and twill ripstop pants are competition-ready and available in IBJJF-compliant colors.
Best Beginner Gi: Ultra-Lightweight Jiu-Jitsu Gi
For the practitioner just starting their jiu-jitsu journey, the ultra-lightweight material of the 350-GSM pearl weave cotton top gi is second to none.
It’s the perfect choice for beginners to get comfortable fighting in uniform with heavy-duty construction that can withstand regular training.
With ultra-durable pants and reinforced lapels, it’s designed to meet a high-performance demand and deliver comfort without compromise.
Which Gi Is Right for You?
Every fighter has their own gi preference based on material weight to jiu-jitsu gi weave types and training environment to competition rules.
The one thing that matters when choosing a BJJ gi is how it impacts performance.
Use this buying guide to help you find the gi that makes you feel the most comfortable and confident so you can train your best.
Explore Hayabusa’s full lineup to find your perfect fit and feel the difference.
