BJJ Equipment Guide UK | Gi, No Gi & Beginner Essentials
The Complete BJJ Equipment Guide
Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be confusing if you are unsure what equipment is actually required. This guide explains the difference between gi and no-gi gear, what beginners should buy first and how to choose BJJ clothing and accessories that are comfortable, durable and suitable for regular training.
FIGHT EQUIPMENT UK
Ready for the Mats?
From your first BJJ class to regular rolling, discover Adidas gis and Filthy Few no-gi clothing. Explore our coordinated blue and white equipment edit.
SHOP THE BJJ KIT ↓Who This Guide Is For
This guide is for:
- Beginners joining their first BJJ class
- Grapplers moving between gi and no gi
- Parents buying junior BJJ gear
- Athletes upgrading their current training kit
1. What Gear Is Needed for Gi BJJ?
For gi training, the essentials usually include:
- BJJ gi
- Belt
- Rash guard under the gi if preferred
- Mouthguard
- Kit bag
Your gi is the main piece of equipment for traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training. Look for a durable jacket, reinforced trousers and a comfortable fit that allows natural movement during grappling.
Adidas BJJ Response Uniform - Blue
Lightweight 265g ripstop polycotton gi with reinforced knees, a structured collar and classic Adidas styling.
SHOP ADIDAS BJJ GI →2. What Gear Is Needed for No Gi?
For no-gi training, the core items are:
- Rash guard
- Grappling shorts or spats
- Mouthguard
- Optional knee support depending on preference
No-gi clothing should fit closely enough to avoid loose fabric getting caught during rolling, while remaining flexible for guard work, takedowns and submissions.
Rash guards and grappling shorts can be purchased separately, allowing you to choose the correct size for each item.
Filthy Few Flow Rash Guard - Sky Blue/White
Short-sleeve compression rash guard with flexible fabric, sublimated graphics and an internal rubber waistband.
SHOP FILTHY FEW RASH GUARD →3. How a BJJ Gi Should Fit
A good gi should allow free movement while remaining secure and academy-appropriate. It should not be excessively baggy or restrictive, and sleeve and trouser length should be checked against your gym or competition requirements.
Always check the manufacturer's size chart before buying. Even pre-shrunk gis should be washed and cared for according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Choosing Your First BJJ Gi
For beginners, prioritise comfort, durability and the correct size rather than choosing a gi purely for its design. Some academies or competitions have restrictions on permitted gi colours.
EXPLORE ADIDAS BJJ GI →4. Rash Guards and Grappling Clothing
Rash guards help with comfort, hygiene and mat burn protection. Choose one that fits securely without bunching or riding up excessively.
For no-gi training, pair a well-fitting rash guard with grappling shorts or spats designed for unrestricted movement. The Filthy Few Flow shorts offer a matching blue and white option.
Filthy Few Flow High Cut Grappling Shorts - Sky Blue/White
Lightweight 5-inch grappling shorts with a flexible fit and freedom of movement for scrambles, guard work and takedowns.
SHOP GRAPPLING SHORTS →5. Belts and Progression
BJJ belts reflect rank and should match your academy requirements. For beginners, the correct starting belt is usually determined by the gym and age level.
Many adult beginners start with a white belt, while junior athletes follow a separate belt progression. Always confirm your rank and academy requirements before purchasing a replacement.
Don't Forget Your Belt
Before ordering your gi, check whether a belt is included and whether your academy has any requirements regarding colour or style.
BROWSE BJJ EQUIPMENT →6. What Beginners Should Buy First
If you are just starting out:
- Ask whether your class is gi or no gi
- Buy only the essentials first
- Prioritise fit, comfort and durability
For gi classes, start with a suitable gi and the belt required by your academy. For no-gi classes, a rash guard and grappling shorts are usually the main clothing essentials. A mouthguard may also be recommended or required for training.
THE BLUE & WHITE EDIT
Shop the BJJ Look
A coordinated selection from Adidas and Filthy Few. Discover a blue BJJ gi alongside matching sky blue and white no-gi clothing.
Adidas BJJ Response Uniform - Blue
Lightweight blue gi designed for regular Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training.
SHOP ADIDAS GI →
Filthy Few Flow Rash Guard
Sky blue and white short-sleeve rash guard for no-gi BJJ and grappling.
SHOP RASH GUARD →
Filthy Few Flow High Cut Shorts
Matching sky blue and white high-cut grappling shorts for unrestricted movement.
SHOP GRAPPLING SHORTS →Products are sold separately. Choose the correct sizes for your training and check your academy's equipment requirements.
7. Common Mistakes
- Buying a gi without checking academy rules
- Turning up to no-gi class in unsuitable gym wear
- Ignoring mouthguards
- Choosing fashion over durability
8. Recommended Categories to Shop
- All BJJ Equipment
- Adidas BJJ Gis
- No-Gi Clothing
- Filthy Few Rash Guards
- Filthy Few Grappling Shorts
- Kids BJJ Equipment
- Mouthguards
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a gi for my first BJJ class?
Only if the class is a gi class. Many beginner gyms will tell you in advance what you need.
What do you wear for no-gi BJJ?
Normally a rash guard and grappling shorts or spats, plus a mouthguard if required by your gym.
Is a rash guard necessary under a gi?
Not always, but many athletes prefer one for comfort and hygiene.
Ready to Hit the Mats?
Find the right BJJ equipment for your next session. Explore Adidas gis, Filthy Few rash guards, grappling shorts and protective gear at Fight Equipment UK.
SHOP BJJ EQUIPMENT →