Collection: Jiu-Jitsu Gis

Adult gis use the A-sizing system, from A0 through to A5, with A1 to A3 covering most people. Sizing is based mainly on height, with weight as a secondary check, so start with your height and then adjust.

As a rough guide: A0 suits 160–170cm and 55–65kg, A1 suits 168–178cm and 65–75kg, A2 suits 175–185cm and 75–88kg, A3 suits 183–193cm and 85–100kg, and A4 suits 190–198cm and 95–110kg. Every brand cuts slightly differently, so always check the specific size chart on the product page before ordering. If you're between sizes, size down rather than up. A gi that's too big gives your opponent extra fabric to grip, and most gis will shrink a little on the first few washes anyway.

The weave describes how the jacket fabric is constructed, and it mostly determines weight, durability and how hot you'll get.

Pearl weave is the standard for most modern gis. It's light, dries reasonably fast and holds up well, and it's what you'll find on the majority of gis sold today. Weight is measured in GSM, usually between 350 and 550, with lighter GSM being cooler and heavier GSM lasting longer.

Single weave is the lightest and cheapest option, which makes it good for hot gyms and hot climates, but it wears out faster and the fabric is thinner for your opponent to grip.

Double weave is the heaviest and toughest, and much harder to grip, but it's hot to train in and slow to dry. It's uncommon now outside of competition-specific gis and judo.

Gold weave sits between single and double, offering a bit more durability without the full weight of a double weave. Ripstop is mostly used for pants rather than jackets, and it's light, very durable and quick-drying.

Rules vary between organisations, so check the ruleset for the event you're entering. Under IBJJF rules, the gi must be a single solid colour in white, royal blue or black, with the jacket and pants matching. The fabric can't be so thick or hard that it stops your opponent gripping it, and the jacket needs to reach your thigh with sleeves ending no more than 5cm from your wrist when your arms are extended. Pants should reach no more than 5cm above the ankle. Patches must be sewn on in approved areas, not glued, and there are rules on where they can sit.

Referees check gis before matches, so if you're training for a specific competition it's worth confirming the current ruleset on the organiser's website.

Wash it after every single session, without exception. Skin infections like ringworm and staph spread through unwashed gis, and most gyms will pull you off the mats if your gi smells.

Use cold water, around 30°C, and turn the gi inside out. Hot water is the main cause of shrinkage and fading, particularly on coloured gis. Hang dry in the shade rather than using a dryer, which will shrink cotton significantly and can damage patches and stitching. Direct sun will fade blue and black gis over time.

Skip fabric softener, since it coats the fibres and reduces breathability. For stubborn odours, soak in a mix of cold water and white vinegar for 30 minutes before washing. If you're training more than twice a week, a second gi is a worthwhile investment simply because a hang-dried gi takes a full day to dry.

One is enough if you're training once or twice a week. Beyond that, two becomes close to essential, since gis take around 24 hours to air dry and you'll otherwise end up training in a damp one. Most people training four or more times a week keep three in rotation.