New to BJJ and staring at a wall of gear? You need far less than the shops would like you to think. Here's what to buy first, and what can wait.
Below: the kit for your first month, what to add later, and where to start in each category.
The short answer
For a gi class, you need a gi (most come with a white belt) and that's it. For no-gi, you need a rash guard and a pair of grappling shorts. A mouthguard is worth adding to either. Everything else can wait until you know you're sticking with it.
Month one: the essentials
A gi, if your gym trains in one
Your first gi doesn't need to be expensive. It needs to fit, survive regular washing and not shrink into a crop top. The Fuji All Around is one of the starter gis discussed by the linked reviewers, and the Sanabul Essentials V.2 and Elite Sports Ultra Light are cheaper still. All three come pre-shrunk. See our full list of the best gis for more.
Sizing is the part people get wrong, so read our gi size chart guide before you order.
A rash guard and shorts, if you train no-gi
A rash guard protects your skin from mat burn and keeps things hygienic, and grappling shorts are built to survive being grabbed. If you think you'll compete one day, buy an IBJJF ranked rash guard in your belt colour, like the Tatami IBJJF Ranked Rash Guard. For shorts, the XMartial BJJ Shorts are Sweet Science of Fighting's top pick after rolling in them.
A mouthguard
It's not compulsory at most gyms, but knees and heads collide in scrambles. A thin guard like the SISU Max 2.4mm lets you breathe and talk normally, which makes it far more likely you'll actually wear it.
Month two and beyond: nice to have
- A second gi so you're not washing one every night. See how to wash a gi without shrinking it.
- Finger tape, once gi grips start to hurt. Our taping guide shows how.
- A rash guard to wear under your gi. Most gyms allow it in training, though men can't wear one under the gi in IBJJF competition.
What you don't need yet
Skip the premium gi, the custom belt and the gear bag full of accessories. Train for a few months first. By then you'll know whether you prefer gi or no-gi, what fit you like, and what's actually wearing out.
FAQ
What do I need for my first BJJ class?
For a gi class, ask the gym whether they lend gis to beginners; if not, you need a gi. For no-gi, comfortable athletic clothes without zips or pockets usually work for a first class, then a rash guard and shorts once you sign up. Bring water and trimmed nails either way.
Do I need to buy a belt as a beginner?
Usually not. Most gis come with a white belt, and your gym promotes you, so there's no need to buy one separately at the start.
How much does BJJ gear cost to start?
A budget gi, or a budget rash guard and shorts, and a mouthguard is enough to start. The cheapest gis on our list sit in the budget price band.
Updated on 28 October 2026. Source links accompany the revised buying guidance.
