BJJ Gear Essentials for Beginners: What You Really Need to Get Started

BJJ Gear Essentials for Beginners: What You Really Need to Get Started

Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) can be both exciting and overwhelming. As a beginner, you’ll quickly realize that having the right gear is crucial for comfort, performance, and safety on the mats. To help you get started, we’ve put together a simple guide covering all the BJJ gear essentials you need.

1. Gi (Kimono) and Belt

If you’re training in traditional BJJ, you’ll need a Gi, also known as a kimono and a belt. Both of these should be specifically designed for BJJ to handle tough training conditions.

• Look for a pre-shrunk Gi to avoid sizing issues after washing.
• Choose a lightweight or mid-weight Gi for comfort and durability.
• There is nothing wrong with having a light weight gi for training but be aware you will need a Gi that is IBJJF approved for IBJJF competitions.
• Ensure the Gi fits properly—not too loose or too tight—to avoid restrictions during training.
• Your belt should be able to withstand heavy training and washing. Yes wash your belt!

3. Rash Guard

Even if you train Gi, a rash guard is highly recommended to wear under your Gi. If you train No-Gi, a rash guard is essential.

• Helps prevent skin infections by minimizing direct skin-to-skin contact.
• Reduces friction and prevents Gi burns on your skin.
• Provides compression, which can aid muscle recovery.
• Choose moisture-wicking, high-quality materials to stay dry and comfortable.

4. Grappling Shorts or Spats

For No-Gi training, you’ll need grappling shorts or spats.

• BJJ shorts should be stretchy, durable, and secure (no pockets, zippers or buttons).
• Some prefer wearing spats (compression leggings) under their shorts for extra protection and comfort.
• Look for reinforced stitching to handle tough training sessions.

5. Mouthguard

Protecting your teeth should be a priority. A mouthguard is a simple but crucial piece of gear and is much cheaper than dental repair work.

• A boil-and-bite mouthguard offers a custom fit at an affordable price.
• Higher-end custom-fit mouthguards provide better protection and comfort.
• Some brands offer breathable designs that make it easier to talk and breathe while rolling.
• Make sure to read the packaging of your mouthguard. they will each have different amounts of dental that they will cover if they fail to protect.

7. Finger Tape

BJJ involves a lot of gripping, and this can take a toll on your fingers. Finger tape is a must-have for many practitioners.

• Helps support your fingers and joints, reducing strain from gripping the Gi.
• Can prevent injuries like sprains and ligament damage.
• Look for BJJ-specific finger tape, which is more durable and sweat-resistant.

8. Gym Bag

You’ll need a good gym bag to carry all your gear to and from training.

• Choose a breathable bag with ventilation to prevent odor buildup.
• Multiple compartments help keep clean and dirty gear separate.
• Some brands offer waterproof compartments for storing sweaty gear.

Bonus: Hygiene Essentials

BJJ is a close-contact sport, so good hygiene is essential for keeping yourself and your teammates safe.

• Antibacterial soap to wash off sweat and bacteria after training.
• Deodorant (be considerate to your training partners!).
• Nail clippers to keep your nails short and avoid scratching others.
• Athletic wipes for a quick clean-up when you don’t have time to shower immediately.

Final Thoughts

Investing in the right BJJ gear makes a huge difference in your training experience. Whether you’re training in Gi or No-Gi, having high-quality, comfortable gear will help you stay focused on learning and improving. Start with the basics, and as you progress, you can add more specialized gear based on your needs.

Ready to gear up? Check out our store for high-quality BJJ Gis, rash guards, grappling shorts, and more!