How to Choose Your First BJJ Gi
Buying your first gi can be confusing: weave weights, jacket materials, sizing charts, IBJJF rules. Here's what actually matters.
Weave weight (GSM)
GSM measures how dense the jacket fabric is. Lighter gis (300-350 GSM) are cooler and easier to move in, but wear out faster and give less grip resistance. Heavier gis (450 GSM and up) last longer and are harder to grip, but get hot and heavy during long sessions. JHOOD kimonos use 380 to 420 GSM Pearl Weave: dense enough to handle grips, light enough to train and compete in without overheating.
Jacket and pants material
Pearl Weave is the standard for gi jackets: a tight, pebbled weave that resists tearing and grips. Pants are a different story. Ripstop is lighter and more flexible, ideal for competition and hot training rooms. Cotton twill is heavier and more durable for daily wear. JHOOD gis use 8oz to 10oz ripstop or cotton twill depending on the model.
Sizing
Gi sizing runs by height and weight, not by regular clothing size (S/M/L). A0 through A4 cover most adult body types, with L (long) and W (wide) variants for different builds. Check the size guide before you order: if you're between two sizes, a gi that runs slightly big is usually easier to move in than one that's too tight.
Competing under IBJJF rules
If you plan to compete, make sure your gi is IBJJF compliant: correct weave weight, jacket length, sleeve and pant cuff measurements, and an allowed color (white, blue, or black for adults). All JHOOD kimonos are built to IBJJF standards.
Still not sure what to get? Email us your height, weight, and experience level, and we'll recommend a gi before you order.
