Doctors wear white coats, businessmen wear suits, soldiers wear camouflage, and BJJ players wear gis. It’s not just our uniform, it’s a symbol of our dedication to The Gentle Art. While traditional gis are generally thick and heavy, the lightweight BJJ gi has become increasingly popular in recent years.
As a purple belt in BJJ, I’ve gone through a fair share of gis over the years. I’ve tested out all of the biggest name brands in the combat sports market, trying to find the perfect gi. I can personally attest to the benefits that a lightweight BJJ gi brings over a traditional heavy cut one.
In this article, I’m going to review my top picks for the best lightweight BJJ gi. Each of these gis have unique qualities that make them great choices, whether you’re a white belt or a black belt.
Top Picks
| Product |   |   |   |   |   |
| Product Name | Ultra Lightweight Aeroweave by Gold BJJ | FUJI Summerweight Lightweight BJJ Gi | Hayabusa Lightweight BJJ Gi | Elite Sports Lightweight BJJ Gi | Sanabul V.2 Ultra Lightweight BJJ Gi |
| Weight | 3.02 lbs. | 4.19 lbs. | 2.7-3.5 lbs. | 3.5 lbs. | 2.75 lbs. |
| Material | Nylon Ripstop Weave | Cotton twill, rubber collar | Cotton Jacket, Cotton-polyester blend pants | 60% Cotton 40% Polyester | 100% Cotton |
| More Information | Check on amazon | Check on amazon | Check on amazon | Check on amazon | Check on amazon |
Who Should Get This
Unless you train exclusively no-gi, you’re going to need a sturdy, comfortable BJJ gi. It’s an essential piece of equipment that is going to get a ton of use, so choosing a high-quality one is important.
BJJ gis play a role in the execution of certain techniques, but also protect BJJ players from abrasive skin injuries and dangerous staph infections. Between the constant manipulation by you and your opponent during rolling and the friction generated on the mats, a cheap BJJ gi will get worn out very quickly.
Since they were made with durability in mind, traditional BJJ gis were made with heavy and thick materials. However, as technology improved, companies have popularized the lightweight BJJ gi. These gis improve mobility and comfort without sacrificing durability.
Anyone who trains BJJ understands the importance of good competition. The race to create the perfect lightweight BJJ gi has led to the creation of many great options on the market.
5 Best Lightweight BJJ Gi
1. Ultra Lightweight Aeroweave by Gold BJJ
Key Features:
- 40% lighter than standard pearl-weave gi
- Nylon ripstop weave is more breathable and doesn’t get soaked in sweat
- Reinforced stitching guarantees durability
- Comes with money-back guarantee
Specifications:
- Weight: 4.19 lbs.
- Material: Nylon Ripstop Weave
In my opinion, Gold BJJ has perfected the art of making a lightweight BJJ gi. The top priority for a lightweight gi is how light it is without sacrificing sturdiness. For me, this gi is the closest thing to training no-gi.
This is the only BJJ gi featured on this list that is made with a nylon ripstop weave, compared to the usual pearl-weave cotton. Not only does this make it much lighter, but also means it doesn’t retain sweat like a cotton gi would.
Some users have reported that the sizing charts by Gold BJJ are a bit off. Though that wasn’t my experience, every purchase is backed with a guarantee. They’ll either replace the product to one that fits properly or give you a full refund!
I recommend this product to anyone in the market for a lightweight BJJ gi. These have become my go-to for training sessions at the gym and satisfy all of my criteria for what makes a great BJJ gi. They’re lighter than any other gi I’ve used, flexible, comfortable, reasonably priced, and the material is great.
That’s why the Aeroweave by BJJ Gold is my top pick for best overall lightweight BJJ gi.
2. Summerweight Lightweight BJJ Gi by FUJI
Key Features:
- Bungee drawstrings
- Rubber collar
- Pre-shrunk to form fit
Specifications:
- Weight: 3.02 lbs.
- Material: Cotton twill, rubber collar
Designed for use in warmer climates, the Summerweight by FUJI is another high-quality choice for anyone looking for a lightweight BJJ gi. FUJI Sports is a world renowned fightwear brand, being endorsed by pro BJJ athletes like Travis Stevens and Rolles Gracie.
This gi is made with a sturdy but breathable cotton, making it lightweight without skimping on durability. It takes a few rolling sessions to really break it in, but once you’re past that, it’s very comfortable. It isn’t the lightest lightweight BJJ gi, but it is the sturdiest.
The bungee drawstrings are a nice feature that make adjustments a breeze. The rubber collar is also a nice touch since the collar is the most manipulated part of a BJJ gi, ensuring that it will last a long time.
This is a great choice for BJJ players who want a lightweight gi without having to worry about durability issues. Though it comes in slightly heavier than some of the other options on this list, you’ll never have to worry about this gi getting worn out.
3. Hayabusa Lightweight BJJ Gi
Key Features:
- IBJJF certified
- Pearl-weave cotton
- Pre-treated to prevent color fade
- Pre-washed to prevent shrinkage
- Available in 6 different sizes
Specifications:
- Weight: 2.7-3.5 lbs.
- Material: Cotton Jacket, Cotton-polyester blend pants
If you’ve been interested in martial arts for a while, you’re undoubtedly familiar with Hayabusa. One of the most recognized fightwear brands on the planet, they make everything from MMA gloves to Muay Thai shin guards. As expected, they have a full line of BJJ gear, including their top notch lightweight BJJ gi.
With that sort of brand recognition comes a higher price, as this gi tends to run a bit pricier than some of the other options on this list. However, the quality matches the price tag, making this one of the best BJJ gis to use for both training and competition.
This product uses a cotton pearl-weave, generally regarded as the longest lasting material for BJJ gis. The materials are pre-washed to prevent shrinkage, a common problem for cotton BJJ gis. The treatment on the cotton also prevents the colors from fading, something that would otherwise happen rapidly with consistent use.
Because it’s IBJJF certified, you can use this gi whether you’re training on the mats or competing at your local tournament. If you’re looking for a long-lasting option that can be used for both training and competition, the Hayabusa lightweight BJJ gi is an excellent choice.
4. Elite Sports Lightweight BJJ Gi
Key Features:
- Tapered jacket fits to form
- Odor reducing technology
- IBJJF certified
- Pre-shrunk machine washable
- Free white belt included in purchase
Specifications:
- Weight: 3.5 lbs.
- Material: 60% Cotton 40% Polyester
Another great brand in fightwear, Elite Sports have thrown themselves into the mix for creating one of the best lightweight BJJ gis on the market. This product comes with some great unique features that make it distinct from other choices.
In addition to its great build quality, durability, and unique features, it also is one of the most reasonably priced options when considering a lightweight BJJ gi. In terms of bang for your buck, this BJJ gi offers a ton of value.
The two features that separate this lightweight BJJ gi from the pack are its tapered fit and odor-reducing technology. Because the jackets are tapered, this BJJ gi truly fits too form, meaning you won’t have to worry about awkward excess material.
The odor-reduction is also fantastic. Anyone who trains multiple times a week knows how quickly a BJJ gi can become disgusting, filling with sweat and stinking to high heaven. This product disperses sweat better than most cotton BJJ gis, meaning you won’t have to wring it out after every rolling session.
If you’re looking for an option that fits the contours of your body and won’t start smelling bad after a few sessions, then the Elite Sports lightweight BJJ gi is an excellent choice. Since it’s IBJJF certified, it can be used in competitions as training. An extra perk is a free white belt included in the purchase!
5. Sanabul V.2 Ultra Lightweight BJJ Gi
Key Features:
- Rubberized stiff collars
- Free BJJ belt of any color
- Very affordable
- Six colors
- Pre-shrunk with meticulous sizing options
Specifications:
- Weight: 2.75 lbs.
- Material: 100% Cotton
Sanabul is another notable fightwear brand endorsed by many world-famous combat sports athletes. They have many stylish lines of BJJ gear, including gis designed around NASA and Star Wars. However, their ultra lightweight BJJ gi is an excellent, aesthetically quiet product that provides tremendous value.
In fact, for the price, it’s hard to beat. Although not IBJJF certified, it’s the perfect entry-level lightweight BJJ gi for training. The flexible material is easy to move around in and comfortable to wear while still being durable enough for intense rolling sessions.
Sanabul goes out of their way to make sure that you get the perfectly sized gi, having one of the most meticulous sizing guides out of any fightwear brand selling BJJ gis. Although they have some funkier lines, I personally love the look of this gi. And at the price, it’s hard to go wrong.
This is a great choice for anyone who wants an excellent fitting, affordable lightweight BJJ gi for use during training. It also comes with a free belt of any color, meaning you can pick one up with your corresponding level.
FAQs
Are lightweight BJJ gis better than heavy ones?
This is a matter of preference, but as someone who trains frequently, I favor lightweight BJJ gis.
A heavier gi will generally last longer, as the thicker material will endure less wear over time. However, they also weigh you down and can be less comfortable than a lightweight gi. If you’re trying to make weight for a competition, the few extra pounds caused by a heavy gi can make for a brutal weight-cut.
Lightweight BJJ gis offer more flexibility, comfort, and are easier to care for. Although they tend to have shorter lifespans than heavier gis, they feel more natural while using them.
What Do I Wear Under My BJJ Gi?
Some people wear nothing except for underwear and a rash guard, while others prefer to wear a light t-shirt. You can also throw on compression shorts if you need a more secure garment.
How many BJJ gis do I need?
The answer to this question depends on how often you’re training. If you’re a beginner who’s only training once or twice a week, all you really need is one high-quality BJJ gi.
As someone who trains 4-6 times per week, I own 5 lightweight BJJ gis. I have two that are competition certified and use the other 3 exclusively for training. I prefer to wash my gi after every session, so having multiples in my rotation keeps them all fresh and ready to go.
What are the different kinds of BJJ Gi weaves and which is best?
The five most common weaves for BJJ gis are: single weave, gold weave, pearl weave, double weave, and ripstop weave.
Generally, the pearl weave is considered the most durable and long lasting. However, the ripstop weave is the most lightweight. If you are prioritizing the lightest feeling material, then you’ll want to choose a ripstop BJJ gi. For a heavier but more durable BJJ gi, go with pearl weave.
Lightweight BJJ Gi Care Guide
One of the best ways to preserve your lightweight BJJ gi is to properly care for it. In this section, I’m going to give you tips that will extend the life of your gi and keep it like new for as long as possible.
Hang Your Gi to Dry Before Washing
When I was a white belt, I made the mistake of taking off my sweat-drenched gi and throwing it into the washing machine immediately. This all but guarantees that your gi will start to smell funky after a while.
Instead, after each rolling session, let your gi dry for a few hours before washing it.
Only Wash Your Gi with Cold Water!
This may seem obvious, but nothing is more disheartening than spending over a hundred bucks on a new gi and then forgetting to switch the hot water to cold. What you’ll end up with is a significantly shrunk gi – and a shrinking wallet after you have to buy a new one.
Air Dry Your Gi After Washing
Like the last tip, unless you want to seriously shrink your brand new lightweight BJJ gi, it’s best not to put it in the dryer. You’ll want to hang it somewhere room temperature and let it air dry, far away from any sources of artificial heat (such as a radiator).
Hanging your gi outside to dry in the fresh air is also a great way to alleviate odors. Whenever I can, I like to hang my gi on a clothesline to dry outside, both after training and after machine washing.
Keeping a White Gi White
The best way to keep a white gi white is to actually buy a blue or black one.
Jokes aside, I personally stopped buying white gis because of how quickly they stain. However, some people prefer them, so I’ve picked up some tips to share on how to keep them like new.
The safest way to whiten a gi is to add a splash of white vinegar to the washing machine. Some people go a bit harsher, opting to use hydrogen peroxide or bleach. However, I think this puts unnecessary chemical wear on your gi.
White vinegar seems to get the job done while being mild enough to not wear out the materials.
Final Words
Any of the products reviewed in this article are excellent choices for a lightweight BJJ gi. However, my personal favorite is the ultra lightweight BJJ Gi. Some don’t like the waxy ripstop material, but I think it’s great.
It’s the lightest gi on this list and is considerably more durable than you’d expect for a BJJ gi that is so thin.
However, any of the other lightweight BJJ gis on this list are excellent choices if you prioritize other qualities or prefer different materials.