Gi and no-gi are close enough to share a mat and different enough to need different kit. Here's what you need for each, what you can share, and where to start if you train both.
Gi: what you need
- A gi, jacket and pants. See the best gis.
- A belt in your rank colour. Most gis come with a white belt.
- Optional: a rash guard under the gi for training. Most gyms allow it, though men can't wear one under the gi in IBJJF competition.
The gi gives you handles: lapels, sleeves and pants to grip. That makes gi training slower and more technical, and harder on your fingers. Finger tape helps.
No-gi: what you need
- A rash guard, skin-tight, to protect your skin and stay out of the way. See the best rash guards.
- Grappling shorts, built to be grabbed without tearing. See the best grappling shorts.
- Optional: compression shorts or spats underneath, especially if your shorts have high side slits like the Hayabusa Icon.
What crosses over
- Your mouthguard. Wear it in both. See the best mouthguards.
- Your rash guard. One that works under a gi works for no-gi too.
- Finger tape, though it matters more in the gi.
If you compete
The IBJJF has separate rules for each:
- Gi: white, royal blue or black, with strict sleeve and pant lengths.
- No-gi: a skin-tight top in black, white or black and white with at least 10% belt colour, or all belt colour, plus shorts from mid-thigh to the knee.
Read the full detail in our IBJJF uniform rules guide. If you train both and might compete, buy a ranked rash guard: it works under your gi in class and is legal for IBJJF no-gi.
Where to start if you train both
- A gi: the Fuji All Around is the common first choice.
- A ranked rash guard: the Tatami IBJJF Ranked Rash Guard.
- A pair of shorts: the XMartial BJJ Shorts.
- A mouthguard.
FAQ
What do I need for no-gi BJJ?
A skin-tight rash guard and a pair of grappling shorts. Many people add compression shorts or spats underneath, and a mouthguard.
Can I wear my rash guard under my gi?
In training, most gyms allow it. In IBJJF gi competition, men can't wear a shirt under the gi top, while women must wear a stretchy, body-hugging shirt.
Is gi or no-gi better for beginners?
Both are good places to start. Many gyms teach beginners in the gi, and plenty of people train both. Start with whatever your gym's beginner classes use.
