Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, often referred to as the “gentle art,” is a martial art that emphasizes ground fighting, self-defense submission techniques, and grappling. Whether you’re a seasoned BJJ practitioner at the blue, purple, or brown belt level, or a white belt just starting out, understanding the sport’s origins, rules, training methods, and gear is crucial. Many BJJ enthusiasts, inspired by the thrilling black belt matches in the IBJJF, are eager to delve deeper into this sport.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is rooted in self-defense, utilizing principles of grip holds, leverage, and balance to subdue opponents in a non-violent manner. The athlete’s attire plays a pivotal role in these techniques, making the uniform a key aspect of BJJ. This distinction is particularly evident in the two main BJJ disciplines: traditional Gi and No-Gi BJJ.
In traditional Gi BJJ, practitioners don a thick cotton kimono, comprising a jacket and pants, secured with a belt that signifies their rank. This discipline involves joint manipulation, dynamic movements, chokes, and Gi grips, making the uniform an integral part of the strategy.
Conversely, No-Gi BJJ forbids Gi grips. Instead, it favors wrestling-style takedowns, with fighters employing dominant positions, submission holds, chokes, and joint manipulations without relying on the opponent’s uniform for leverage. No-Gi attire typically includes rash guards and shorts, with the option of spat pants or shorts alone.
This article delves into the essential features to consider when purchasing BJJ gear. It includes comprehensive reviews of various BJJ equipment from Elite Sports, a renowned brand that will accompany you on your BJJ journey. As you explore the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, remember the contributions of legends like Renzo Gracie, who have significantly influenced the sport, especially mixed martial arts. “Hello Gracie” is not just a greeting among BJJ enthusiasts; it’s a nod to a legacy that continues to inspire and evolve within the martial arts community.
Traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Uniform
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that welcomes everyone – men, women, teenagers, and children alike. Its global popularity stems from its inclusive nature, with no barriers related to age or gender. As long as you’re healthy and passionate about the sport, you have the potential to excel. A hallmark of BJJ is its traditional uniform: the immaculate white Gi, accompanied by a belt that signifies your skill level and rank.
The uniform is not just a piece of attire; it’s a symbol of pride and connection to the sport’s rich heritage. Practitioners wear their Gis with honor, reminiscent of legends like Carlos Gracie Sr. and Marcus Almeida. However, while the uniform is a source of pride, issues like fabric quality, comfort, and fit can be a concern. A subpar BJJ Gi can negatively affect your performance, with discomforts like rough fabric chafing against your skin being the last thing you want during training. This can be bad for both you and your training partner.
Investing in high-quality Gis and belts is crucial, though they can be pricey. Fortunately, finding a brand that offers top-notch yet affordable Gis is achievable. Elite Sports stands out in this regard, offering quality gear that meets the needs of BJJ practitioners. As you step onto the mat in your Gi, you’re not just preparing for a session in combat sports; you’re embracing a legacy that extends from the Gracie Academy to BJJ schools worldwide. Each “Hello Gracie” exchanged in the dojo is a testament to this enduring martial arts tradition.
Elite Sports BJJ Gis for All
Embarking on the journey of learning jiu-jitsu requires a Gi that complements your agility and technique. Elite Sports offers an array of budget-friendly Gis for men, women, and children, tailored to withstand the rigorous grips and pulls characteristic of BJJ. These Gis are crafted from a 400 gsm blend of cotton and polyester, ensuring a lightweight feel that promotes swift, fluid movements without the hindrance of heavy fabric. Additionally, their tear-resistant nature and soft texture allow you to concentrate fully on mastering your opponent, confident in your Gi’s durability and the protection it offers your skin.
A standout feature of these Gis is their treatment with antimicrobial and anti-odor agents, a boon when you’re exerting yourself on the mats. Whether it’s you or your child donning the Elite Sports BJJ Gi, concerns about unpleasant odors are a thing of the past. The antimicrobial properties are especially beneficial after a long day at the gym, allowing you to postpone washing without worrying about bacterial or fungal growth, ensuring a fresh Gi for your next session.
For those aiming to compete in prestigious tournaments like the IBJJF, training in a tournament-approved Gi is crucial. Not only does it allow you to acclimate to your competition attire, but wearing an IBJJF-approved Gi also serves as a constant reminder of the goals you’re striving to achieve.
Elite Sports ensures that finding the perfect fit is hassle-free, regardless of your size or height. Should the pants require adjusting, a simple tug on the drawstring provides a snug fit. And for those seeking to break away from traditional white Gis, there’s a wide selection of colored Gis to add vibrancy to your training sessions. All these features, tailored to the needs of BJJ practitioners, come at an accessible price point, with variations for men, women, and children.
Elite Sports BJJ Belts for All Belt Levels
The belt is the most prominent feature of the majority of martial arts, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is no different. Though you have to wait and work a long while to become worthy of a black belt. But the moment you enter a BJJ school, you get to wear a belt. The quality of a BJJ belt lies in its knot abilities and thickness. In addition, a high-quality BJJ belt is tough in the beginning, but after a couple of sessions, it becomes soft and easy to knot. You should still be able to feel the thickness of the fabric.
Thin belts are great for multiple knots, but they wear out quickly. On the other hand, knots on thick belts are not secure. These belts remain firm and have the right thickness. The 100% cotton material keeps you comfortable no matter how tightly you secure the belt. Just like the fabric, the stitching is durable with no loose or broken threads to spoil your look.
Elite Sports BJJ belts stay in place keeping your Gi secure. All the colors are IBJJF approved, so you can participate in any tournament without having to buy a new belt. You can easily order a belt that fits your waist and does not fall to your knee. Once secure, only 15-20 cm of belt will stick out from each side of the knot, ensuring unrestricted movements. Size charts are available on the website to help you with your purchase.
Modern No-Gi BJJ Uniform
No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which emerged in 1995, saw significant development under the guidance of Eddie Bravo, the founder of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu. This variation of BJJ eschews the traditional rank-signifying belt and kimono in favor of a more contemporary and comfortable outfit comprising a rash guard, shorts, and spats. While No-Gi BJJ retains the core submission techniques, positions, transitions, and chokes found in traditional BJJ, it notably omits gi grips, making the transition away from the Gi a strategic choice.
Furthermore, No-Gi BJJ is recognized for its dynamic, fast-paced, and rigorous nature, distinguishing it from its Gi counterpart. Interestingly, some techniques in No-Gi BJJ share similarities with catch wrestling, leading to a convergence in the dress codes of catch wrestling, No-Gi BJJ, and even UFC, reflecting a broader trend towards functionality and mobility in combat sports attire.
Especially if the athlete only wears shorts No-Gi shorts on the mat. That is unlike what the Gracie family have practiced.
No-Gi athletes also benefit from the versatility of their attire. Their rash guards can be used as warming base layers under gym clothes. The gear is practical for all kinds of exercises and workouts. Whether you are training for strength or practicing a particular technique, a quality No-Gi uniform is all you need. There is this idea that the collective cost of three No-Gi pieces can be taxing on one’s budget. If it isn’t surely the products are not high quality. You can easily find premium No-Gi gear at cheap rates on Amazon or official websites of different brands, and Elite Sports is a prominent one.
Elite Sports No-Gi Shorts
When selecting No-Gi shorts, it’s essential to consider both form and function in terms of what the human body needs. In No-Gi BJJ, where rapid movements are commonplace, your shorts should offer maximum mobility and range of motion. Look for shorts that are tear-resistant, equipped with a leg gusset, and designed with side splits to provide necessary space for movement.
Elite Sports No-Gi shorts are an excellent choice for the more aggressive fighters, and they’re equally suitable for UFC bouts. Their breathable, lightweight design ensures that your movements remain unencumbered. These shorts are tailored to fit snugly at the waist while offering a slightly looser fit around the knees, eliminating any excess fabric that might impede your agility. This design not only facilitates movement but also promotes airflow, keeping you comfortable during intense sparring sessions.
The shorts feature a dual Velcro closure waistband, ensuring a secure fit that avoids chafing or skin irritation. The adjustable Velcro strap allows for a custom fit around the waist. Although grips are not a component of No-Gi BJJ, the shorts’ durable blend of 150 gsm cotton and microfiber fabric is robust enough to endure rigorous pulls and tugs.
The side leg splits in these shorts are designed to accommodate free movement and rolls, while the leg gussets contribute to their longevity. Without these gussets, regular use could lead to tears. When paired with a compression T-shirt, these shorts become part of an ideal gym outfit, ready to support your training needs.Elite Sports No-Gi Rash Guard
In No-Gi the kimono jacket is replaced with the rash guard. Some BJJ athletes also wear rash guards under the Gi during practice sessions. A rash guard is similar to a compression T-shirt that covers your entire upper body. It can have short sleeves but long sleeves are preferred for maximum protection. In half-sleeve rash guards, your arms are exposed and can get chafes, cuts, and scratches. Plus, long sleeve rash guards keep your arm muscles warm, boosting performance and preventing injury.
The Elite Sports rash guards are a premium blend of spandex and polyester. Their four-way stretch offers greater mobility and an even greater range of motion. The compression properties of the fabric increase blood flow, reduce muscle soreness and reduce the risk of blood pooling, and the pain resulting from it.
The anti-slip waistband keeps the rash guard in place, so you don’t have to pull your rash guard in the middle of the fight. The product has subtle branding and IBJJF approved belt rank colors for inexperienced and seasoned grapplers. Lightweight, breathable, and anti-odor material ensures a pleasant grappling experience. Flatlock seams enhance comfort and durability, so you can use your favorite rash guard for a long time.
Elite Sports No-Gi Spats
According to the IBJJF No-Gi uniform rules, men can either opt for shorts or wear spat pants and shorts. While female athletes have to wear pants even if they wear board shorts. So, a female No-Gi BJJ aspirant must invest in a good pair of spats for training.
The BJJ No-Gi spats can be worn as a warming base layer, compression tights under running shorts, or for BJJ drills, workouts, and competitions. The Elite Sports No-Go spat pants are skin-tight providing optimal protection, comfort, and mobility. In BJJ, your limb muscles are the most active. Therefore, full-sleeve rash guards and spat pants are a great option if you want to ensure your muscle health.
Spat pants are designed to prevent mat burns and abrasions. The polyester and spandex blend acts as the much-needed shield and keeps you unharmed no matter how aggressively you drill or roll on the mat. The 4-way stretch retains shape and becomes one with skin. When on the mat, you won’t even feel the fabric, and this will improve your focus and increase your chances to win. Some fighters argue that shorts are a better option as they allow airflow. However, the moisture-wicking properties of the spats will keep you dry and as comfortable as you would be in shorts. The anti-slip sleeve bands keep the fabric in place, without which the pants may roll up your shin and expose your lower leg and ankle. Furthermore, the side-split overlay hem adds to the mobility offered by the stretchable material.
The elastic waistband offers a comfortable fit, and you won’t get any waistband rashes. Have you ever discarded a pair of spats because their waistband lost its elasticity? The Elite Sports spats are designed for long-term use and can be used regularly for years before the elastic band loses its elastic strength. The flatlock seams further enhance the durability and ensure a comfortable sparring experience.
BJJ Gym Bag
When going to your BJJ gym, you may have to carry a spare rash guard, Gi, belt, or a change of clothes. Some practitioners also carry shoes, sweaty BJJ gear, water bottles, and other essentials in a BJJ gym bag. Seasoned BJJ grapplers who want to transition to other martial arts or train MMA can also use this bag to carry protective training accessories, such as gloves, head gear, shin pads, and mouth guards.
Made from heavy-duty cordura, and 1200 Denier polyester, The Elite Sports BJJ gym bag complements your Gi and No-Gi attire, and can carry sufficient weight. With a 12” width, 22” length, and 10.5” height, the bag has enough space to carry other everyday essentials along with your BJJ equipment. The bag has separate pockets for water bottles and shoes. Though the moisture wicking Gi and No-Gi training gear won’t get sweaty and wet, the BJJ gym bag also features two waterproof pockets to cater to athletes who don’t have sweat wicking gear.
You can keep your BJJ bag in your car to train anytime you want. Featuring minimal branding and a stylish shape, you will use this bag for regular gym visits, travel, beach vacations, and camping trips.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Practitioners Wear The Best
The Elite Sports BJJ gear is the overall best equipment for all BJJ practitioners which is far from what the practitioners in feudal Japan had. Some athletes complain that the Gi is not 100% cotton; therefore, it won’t be as durable. However, the high quality cotton and polyester blend is lightweight compared to 100% cotton. But it is as sturdy and reliable as a cotton Gi.
As far as No-Gi gear is concerned, there aren’t any reservations. Athletes interested to purchase the complete gear, including rash guards, spats, and shorts often find it an expensive deal. If you too have the same concern, you can avail generous discounts readily available. So, make sure you check out the website.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu means gentle arts and is mainly based on self-defense strategies. The sport applies the principles of grip holds, leverage, and balance to subdue one’s opponent in a non-violent way. All these techniques are highly dependent on the athletes’ attire. For this reason, in BJJ much emphasis is laid on the uniform. In fact, the uniform is a distinctive feature between the two disciplines of BJJ: traditional Gi and No-Gi BJJ.
In traditional Gi BJJ, athletes wear a thick cotton kimono, which includes a jacket and pants. In addition, athletes have to wear a belt that holds the jacket in place and also indicates the belt level to which a practitioner belongs. Gi BJJ involves joint manipulation, dynamic movements, chokes, and Gi grips.
On the other hand, the No-Gi BJJ gi grips are not allowed. In its place, wrestling-style takedowns are more common in No-Gi. In a close contact sport, a No-Gi fighter can submit his opponent through dominant positions, submission holds, chokes, and joint manipulations. However, all these techniques must be performed without using the opponent’s uniform as leverage. For No-Gi training and tournaments, athletes wear No-Gi rash guards and shorts. They can also replace the shorts with spat pants, or fight only in shorts.
This article discusses all the features that you should look for when buying BJJ gear. You will also find in-depth reviews of different BJJ equipment from Elite Sports, a reputed brand that will be your partner throughout your BJJ journey.
Traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Uniform
Whether you are an adult man, a woman, a teenager, or a child, you can practice jiu-jitsu. BJJ is one of the most popular martial arts in the world because it has no age or gender restrictions. If you are healthy and interested in the sport, you can achieve great heights. The most iconic part of the BJJ is its uniform: the pristine white Gi and a white or colored belt, depending on your skill and rank.
We have never seen a BJJ student complain about the uniform. On the contrary, they take pride in adorning the same outfits as the legendary Carlos Gracie Sr., Marcus Almeida, and others. However, you will hear your fellow practitioner complain about the fabric, comfort, and fit of the Gi. A low-quality BJJ Gi can adversely impact your performance on the mat. The last thing you want is to get distracted by the rough chafing material of your Gi collar or waist band.
High-quality Gis and belts can be expensive. But finding an affordable brand that offers fine Gis is possible. Elite Sports is a shining example.
Elite Sports BJJ Gis for All
To keep up with the demands and challenges of BJJ, you need a Gi that facilitates your moves. Elite Sports Gis for men, women, and children are budget-friendly picks designed to resist the grips and tugs of your opponent. The Gi is crafted from a 400 gsm cotton and polyester blend that is lightweight. It is ideal for swift and fluid movements as the weight of the fabric won’t slow you down. In addition, the Gi is tear resistant and soft against the skin. Thanks to these qualities, you can shift all your focus on overcoming your opponent, and your Gi will protect itself from tears and your skin from injuries.
The claim that the Gi fabric is treated with antimicrobial and anti-odor chemicals rings true when you break into a heavy sweat on the mats. If you or your child is wrapped in the Elite Sports BJJ Gi, the counterparts will never complain about the bad odor. Moreover, the antimicrobial properties come in handy when you reach home after a long day at the BJJ gym. If you don’t have the energy to wash your Gi immediately after, you can leave the task to the next day. The fabric will prevent the growth of bacteria and fungus, ensuring a clean Gi for your next training session.
When preparing to compete on the largest BJJ platforms like IBJJF, you need to train in a Gi that is approved by the tournament authorities. Not only will this help you break into your uniform and get comfortable in it, the fact that you are wearing an IBJJF approved Gi will remind you of the competition you plan to win.
No matter your size and height, you can easily order a Gi that fits you like a glove. In case the pant waist is loose, you can fix this problem by pulling at the drawstring.
Bored with the white Gis? A large selection of colored Gis is available to spice up your dull training sessions. All these features come at an affordable price. The prices of men, women, and kids’ Gis vary.
Elite Sports BJJ Belts for All Belt Levels
The belt is the most prominent feature of the majority of martial arts, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is no different. Though you have to wait and work a long while to become worthy of a black belt. But the moment you enter a BJJ school, you get to wear a belt. The quality of a BJJ belt lies in its knot abilities and thickness. In addition, a high-quality BJJ belt is tough in the beginning, but after a couple of sessions, it becomes soft and easy to knot. You should still be able to feel the thickness of the fabric.
Thin belts are great for multiple knots, but they wear out quickly. On the other hand, knots on thick belts are not secure. These belts remain firm and have the right thickness. The 100% cotton material keeps you comfortable no matter how tightly you secure the belt. Just like the fabric, the stitching is durable with no loose or broken threads to spoil your look.
Elite Sports BJJ belts stay in place keeping your Gi secure. All the colors are IBJJF approved, so you can participate in any tournament without having to buy a new belt. You can easily order a belt that fits your waist and does not fall to your knee. Once secure, only 15-20 cm of belt will stick out from each side of the knot, ensuring unrestricted movements. Size charts are available on the website to help you with your purchase.
Modern No-Gi BJJ Uniform
The No-Gi BJJ emerged in 1995 and was developed much later by Eddie Bravo, the founder of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu. In No-Gi BJJ rank-signifying belt and kimono was replaced with a more comfortable and modern-looking attire: rash guard, shorts, and spats. While No-Gi utilizes the same submission techniques, positions, transitions, and chokes, the primary difference is the lack of gi grips. Hence, all the more reason to shed the Gi.
Also, No-Gi BJJ is more dynamic, fast-paced, and rigorous compared to Gi BJJ. In fact some No-Gi techniques can be translated into catch wrestling. For this reason, the dress code of catch wrestling, No-Gi BJJ, and UFC is quite similar.
Especially if the athlete only wears shorts No-Gi shorts on the mat.
No-Gi athletes also benefit from the versatility of their attire. Their rash guards can be used as warming base layers under gym clothes. The gear is practical for all kinds of exercises and workouts. Whether you are training for strength or practicing a particular technique, a quality No-Gi uniform is all you need. There is this idea that the collective cost of three No-Gi pieces can be taxing on one’s budget. If it isn’t surely the products are not high quality. You can easily find premium No-Gi gear at cheap rates on Amazon or official websites of different brands, and Elite Sports is a prominent one.
Elite Sports No-Gi Shorts
What should you look for when buying No-Gi shorts? The form of your gear should match the function. In No-Gi, you will perform quick movements for which you need ample mobility and range of motion. So your shorts must be tear resistant, have a leg gusset, and have side splits for adequate space.
Elite Sports No-Gi shorts are versatile and a great option for aggressive fighters. You can wear these shorts for your UFC fights as well. Breathable and lightweight, you will not feel any weight slowing your movements. These No-Gi shorts fit the waist perfectly and are slightly loose around the knee. You won’t feel any extra fabric swirling around, hindering your movement. The slightly loose fit ensures airflow and keeps you comfortable as you engage in a grueling sparring session.
The two-fold Velcro closure waistband offers a secure fit that does not cause any chafing or skin irritation. In addition, for a snug fit around the waist, you can adjust the Velcro strap. Although grips are not allowed in No-Gi BJJ, the 150 gsm cotton and microfibre fabric blend can withstand harsh pulls and tugs.
The side leg splits move and rolls freely, and the leg gussets help them last longer. Without these gussets, you can tear your shorts after using them regularly. Pair these shorts with a compression T-shirt and you have great gym gear at your disposal.
Elite Sports No-Gi Rash Guard
In No-Gi the kimono jacket is replaced with the rash guard. Some BJJ athletes also wear rash guards under the Gi during practice sessions. A rash guard is similar to a compression T-shirt that covers your entire upper body. It can have short sleeves but long sleeves are preferred for maximum protection. In half-sleeve rash guards, your arms are exposed and can get chafes, cuts, and scratches. Plus, long sleeve rash guards keep your arm muscles warm, boosting performance and preventing injury.
The Elite Sports rash guards are a premium blend of spandex and polyester. Their four-way stretch offers greater mobility and an even greater range of motion. The compression properties of the fabric increase blood flow, reduce muscle soreness and reduce the risk of blood pooling, and the pain resulting from it.
The anti-slip waistband keeps the rash guard in place, so you don’t have to pull your rash guard in the middle of the fight. The product has subtle branding and IBJJF approved belt rank colors for inexperienced and seasoned grapplers. Lightweight, breathable, and anti-odor material ensures a pleasant grappling experience. Flatlock seams enhance comfort and durability, so you can use your favorite rash guard for a long time.
Elite Sports No-Gi Spats
According to the IBJJF No-Gi uniform rules, men can either opt for shorts or wear spat pants and shorts. While female athletes have to wear pants even if they wear board shorts. So, a female No-Gi BJJ aspirant must invest in a good pair of spats for training.
The BJJ No-Gi spats can be worn as a warming base layer, compression tights under running shorts, or for BJJ drills, workouts, and competitions. The Elite Sports No-Go spat pants are skin-tight providing optimal protection, comfort, and mobility. In BJJ, your limb muscles are the most active. Therefore, full-sleeve rash guards and spat pants are a great option if you want to ensure your muscle health.
Spat pants are designed to prevent mat burns and abrasions. The polyester and spandex blend acts as the much-needed shield and keeps you unharmed no matter how aggressively you drill or roll on the mat. The 4-way stretch retains shape and becomes one with skin. When on the mat, you won’t even feel the fabric, and this will improve your focus and increase your chances to win. Some fighters argue that shorts are a better option as they allow airflow. However, the moisture-wicking properties of the spats will keep you dry and as comfortable as you would be in shorts. The anti-slip sleeve bands keep the fabric in place, without which the pants may roll up your shin and expose your lower leg and ankle. Furthermore, the side-split overlay hem adds to the mobility offered by the stretchable material.
The elastic waistband offers a comfortable fit, and you won’t get any waistband rashes. Have you ever discarded a pair of spats because their waistband lost its elasticity? The Elite Sports spats are designed for long-term use and can be used regularly for years before the elastic band loses its elastic strength. The flatlock seams further enhance the durability and ensure a comfortable sparring experience.
BJJ Gym Bag
When going to your BJJ gym, you may have to carry a spare rash guard, Gi, belt, or a change of clothes. Some practitioners also carry shoes, sweaty BJJ gear, water bottles, and other essentials in a BJJ gym bag. Seasoned BJJ grapplers who want to transition to other martial arts or train MMA can also use this bag to carry protective training accessories, such as gloves, head gear, shin pads, and mouth guards.
Made from heavy-duty cordura, and 1200 Denier polyester, The Elite Sports BJJ gym bag complements your Gi and No-Gi attire, and can carry sufficient weight. With a 12” width, 22” length, and 10.5” height, the bag has enough space to carry other everyday essentials along with your BJJ equipment. The bag has separate pockets for water bottles and shoes. Though the moisture wicking Gi and No-Gi training gear won’t get sweaty and wet, the BJJ gym bag also features two waterproof pockets to cater to athletes who don’t have sweat wicking gear.
You can keep your BJJ bag in your car to train anytime you want. Featuring minimal branding and a stylish shape, you will use this bag for regular gym visits, travel, beach vacations, and camping trips.
Takeaway
The Elite Sports BJJ gear is the overall best equipment for all BJJ practitioners. Some athletes complain that the Gi is not 100% cotton; therefore, it won’t be as durable. However, the high quality cotton and polyester blend is lightweight compared to 100% cotton. But it is as sturdy and reliable as a cotton Gi.
As far as No-Gi gear is concerned, there aren’t any reservations. Athletes interested to purchase the complete gear, including rash guards, spats, and shorts often find it an expensive deal. If you too have the same concern, you can avail generous discounts readily available. So, make sure you check out the website.
