How many BJJ gis should I own? [A 101 Guide]
If you’re a BJJ enthusiast, you’ve likely pondered the question, “How many BJJ gis should I own?” The world of BJJ gis is vast, with various brands, styles, and considerations. Let’s delve into this topic to help you make informed decisions and enhance your overall BJJ experience.
When it comes to BJJ, your choice of gi plays a crucial role. From hygiene to comfort and durability, owning the right number of gis can significantly impact your training routine. In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of multiple gis, factors to consider, and expert advice on maintaining and selecting the right ones.
How many BJJ gis should I own – Reddit Opinions
Alright, the short answer is 1-3 BJJ gis in your wardrobe is optimal. But it all depends on how many BJJ classes you have weekly. If you show up in the gym 1-2 times a week, you can manage it even with one gi. Having 2-3 gis or more for 3+ jiu jitsu classes is advised.
Now let’s have a look at the information from the Reddit BJJ community comments on how many gis do they have:
| Years of Training | Number of Gis | Favorite Brands | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | N+1 | – | Optimum number of Gis is N+1, following the joke about bikes. |
| 7 | Depends | – | More Gis helpful if training multiple times a week due to drying time. |
| 7 | Initially 2 | 93 brand, Fuji | Suggests starting with 2 cheaper Gis initially and mentions weight loss affecting Gi size. |
| – | – | – | Washes white belt with black Gis, no issues after the first couple of washes. |
| 7 | A1 or A2 | – | Weighs 145 lbs, 5’9″, suggests A1 or A2 depending on personal fit preference. |
| 1.5 years | 4 in rotation | BJJHQ.com | Recommends BJJHQ.com for good deals, rotates 4 Gis for training 4 times a week. |
| – | Depends | – | Recommends having enough to train in a clean Gi each time. |
| – | 2 | $50-60 Gis | Suggests buying a couple of $50-60 Gis for easy training rotation. |
| – | 2-3 | Sanabul, Fuji, 93 Brand | Suggests 2-3 Gis depending on training frequency. Recommends Sanabul and Fuji for cheaper options. |
| – | 1 | Sanabul | Bought a Sanabul Gi for ~$65 and plans to get another one. |
| – | More than 5 | Judo Gis, 93 Brand, Fuji | Owns 4 Judo Gis and 5 BJJ Gis, rotates them due to a tight schedule. Recommends Judo Gis for BJJ and suggests 93 Brand, Fuji for BJJ Gis. |
| – | 16 | – | Trains twice a day and owns 16 Gis. |
| – | 5 | A&P, Hyperfly | Likes A&P Gi for basics, praises Hyperfly but finds it a bit too fitted. |
| – | 2 cheap ones | 93 Brand, Tatami | Owns 2 cheap Gis for starting classes, recommends 93 Brand and Tatami for affordable options. |
| – | Wash every day | – | Washes Gis every day. |
| – | 12+ | – | Owns 12+ Gis, coaches and trains a lot. |
| – | Makes own | Megabjj.com | Makes own Gis, recommends 93brand and has designs for sale at Megabjj.com. |
| – | 2 | – | Owns 2 Gis. |
| – | 3 | Pretorian, Vouk Raiz, Shoyoroll | Owns 3 Gis including a used Pretorian and a new Vouk Raiz. |
| – | 6 | – | Owns 6 Gis, rotates 3 regularly. |
| – | 10+ | – | Owns 10+ Gis, rotates them seasonally, given as gifts. |
| – | 3 | Fuji, Inverted Gear | Owns 3 Gis, favorites are Fuji Victory and Inverted Gear Rebel. |
| 10 (3 years consistently) | 11 | 93 brand, Scramble, Origin, Grips, Inverted Gear, Do or Die, Strike Fightwear, Shoyoroll | Lists multiple brands for variety, rotates 11 Gis consistently. |
Best BJJ Gi Reddit Reviews – 13 Top Gi Brands Ever [UPD 2024]
Why is Owning Multiple BJJ Gis Important?
Having more than one BJJ gi isn’t just about fashion; it’s a strategic choice. Regular training leads to sweaty sessions, and owning multiple gis allows for rotation, ensuring that you always have a clean, dry gi for each training session. This practice not only maintains hygiene but also extends the lifespan of your gis.
Factors to Consider When Deciding How Many BJJ Gis to Own
Durability and Quality
Different brands and types of BJJ gis vary in terms of durability and quality. Consider your training frequency and intensity when selecting gis. Investing in high-quality gis may be cost-effective in the long run.
Training Environment
Climate and training environment play a role in determining how many gis you need. Hotter climates may require more frequent changes, while a controlled environment might allow for fewer gis.
Competition vs. Training Gis
For competition, having a specialized gi can be beneficial. However, for regular training, versatility and durability become key. Striking the right balance is essential.
Is One BJJ Gi Enough for Regular Training?
While one gi is technically enough for regular training, owning multiple gis provides practical advantages. Regular washing and rotation maintain freshness, prevent wear and tear, and contribute to overall hygiene.
How Often Should I Wash My BJJ Gi?
Hygiene is paramount in BJJ. Wash your gi after every training session to prevent the buildup of bacteria and unpleasant odors. This practice not only benefits you but also shows respect to your training partners.
Advantages of Owning Multiple BJJ Gis
Owning multiple Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Gis can offer several advantages to practitioners. Here are some reasons why having more than one BJJ Gi can be beneficial:
- Hygiene: Regular training sessions can lead to sweaty Gis. Owning multiple Gis allows you to rotate them, ensuring that you always have a clean and dry Gi for each training session. This helps in maintaining good hygiene and prevents unpleasant odors.
- Convenience: Washing and drying a Gi after every training session can be time-consuming. Owning multiple Gis means you can train on consecutive days without having to rush to clean and dry your Gi immediately after each session.
- Extended Lifespan: Rotating between Gis reduces the frequency of washing and drying, which can contribute to the longevity of the Gis. Over time, frequent washing and drying can cause wear and tear on the fabric, stitching, and patches.
- Adaptability to Climate: Gis come in different weights and materials. Owning multiple Gis allows you to choose the most suitable one based on the climate or season. Lighter Gis are preferred in hot weather, while heavier Gis provide more insulation in colder conditions.
- Competition Preparation: In BJJ competitions, practitioners are often required to wear a specific color or type of Gi. Owning multiple Gis ensures that you have the appropriate attire for various competitions, adhering to the rules and regulations.
- Personal Expression: Some practitioners enjoy expressing their personal style through their choice of Gis. Owning multiple Gis allows you to have variety in colors, designs, and patches, showcasing your personality on the mat.
- Backup for Tournaments: It’s not uncommon for a Gi to get damaged or torn during training or competition. Having a backup Gi on hand can be crucial, especially during tournaments where a replacement may be needed quickly.
- Training Intensity: Depending on the intensity of your training sessions, Gis can wear out faster. Having multiple Gis ensures that you always have a backup if one is in need of repair or replacement.
- Team Loyalty: Some practitioners like to represent their BJJ team or academy with branded Gis. Owning multiple team Gis allows you to proudly display your team affiliation during training and competitions.
It also ensures preparedness for competitions and serves as a backup in case of wear or damage.
Consequences of Not Owning Enough BJJ Gis for Regular Training
Insufficient gis can lead to hygiene issues, discomfort, and a faster deterioration of your gear. It may also limit your training consistency if you’re waiting for a gi to dry after washing.
Hygiene and Skin Infections: The Role of Multiple Gis
Owning multiple gis is a practical way to prevent skin infections. Regular washing and rotation inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens that thrive in damp environments.
Tips for Maintaining and Caring for Multiple BJJ Gis
- Follow Washing Instructions: Each gi may have specific care requirements.
- Inspect for Damage: Regularly check for wear and tear to address issues promptly.
- Proper Storage: Hang your gis to allow proper air circulation and prevent mildew.
Enhancing Your BJJ Experience with Multiple Gis
Beyond practicality, owning multiple gis can elevate your overall BJJ journey. It adds a layer of excitement, allowing you to express your style and personality on the mats.
Cost-Effective Strategies for Purchasing Multiple BJJ Gis
- Bundle Deals: Look for promotions or bundle deals offered by reputable brands.
- Off-Season Sales: Purchase gis during off-season sales to save on costs.
Different Climates and Training Environments: Impact on the Number of BJJ Gis
Hot and humid climates may necessitate more gis due to increased sweating. Conversely, colder environments might allow for fewer gis as they dry faster.
Types of BJJ Gis for Various Purposes
- Competition Gis: Lightweight and often more tailored to meet competition regulations.
- Training Gis and Casual Wear Gis: Durable, versatile, and designed for regular training. More stylish and suitable for wearing outside of training sessions.
Conclusion
In the world of BJJ, the question of how many gis to own is subjective, but a strategic approach yields numerous benefits. Regular rotation, consideration of factors like climate and training environment, and investing in quality gis are key to enhancing your BJJ experience. Remember, it’s not just about the number of gis but about making each one count in your martial arts journey.