what to wear under your bjj gi

What to Wear Under BJJ Gi and No Gi

Ladies for Training in a Brazilian Jiu Jitsi Gi

For training in the Gi, opt for a breathable shirt paired with shorts or pants. Gis can become quite hot and heavy, so wearing fewer and thinner layers underneath is advisable.

It’s customary to have some form of undergarment beneath your Gi, as pants might slip during a roll. Your shirt should ideally be made of moisture-wicking fabric to keep sweat at bay and avoid dense cotton that holds in heat. “Rash guards,” or BJJ-specific tops, are an excellent choice and are available at your school or you can go online at Amazon.

If you choose to wear pants, select snug athletic ones and steer clear of heavy or cotton fabrics. Shorts of any type are generally acceptable for Gi BJJ, provided they are snug and comfortable. As your clothes will likely be pulled during practice, wearing close-fitting athletic wear underneath will help keep you cool and comfortable under your Gi.

The Benefits of Wearing a Rash Guard

rash guard under her traditional white Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gi

Wearing that rash guard beneath your uniform gi during BJJ sessions brings numerous advantages. Primarily, it serves as an added layer of defense for your skin, significantly lowering the chance of friction-related burns and mat-induced rashes. The snug material acts as a shield, diminishing the direct contact and abrasion your skin experiences. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with delicate skin or those susceptible to skin irritations.

Moreover, a rash guard aids in maintaining a stable body temperature throughout your training. Constructed from materials that wick away moisture, these garments keep you cooler and drier by effectively drawing sweat from your body. This feature proves invaluable during vigorous training bouts, helping you remain comfortable and focused.

Additionally, rash guards offer a layer of warmth, a boon in cooler training settings or during the winter season. This extra insulation ensures you stay warm, making your training experience more comfortable.

In essence, incorporating a rash guard into your BJJ attire offers enhanced protection, comfort, and helps regulate your body temperature. When selecting one, prioritize a reputable brand known for quality and ensure a good fit to fully enjoy these benefits. Even those who practice traditional martial arts are wearing rash guards under their karate uniforms.

For No Gi Class Make Sure Its Light Weight

In No-Gi classes, it’s also best to wear lightweight, athletic attire. This not only helps you stay cool and dry but also prevents entanglement during rolls which can occur with loose or shorts with pockets.

Rash guards are preferred for No Gi for their snug fit and moisture-wicking properties. For shorts, choose options like running shorts that are typically closer fitting and pocket-free. Tight synthetic polyester shorts or pants, often referred to as spandex, are ideal as they wick away moisture and reduce the chance of snags. Spats or leggings are a popular choice because they’re close-fitting, absorb sweat, and maintain modesty.

Tank tops are not recommended ladies, and men should wear shorts over their leggings. The key to BJJ attire is comfort, functionality and safety.