Choketopus BLOG: Kimono/Gi
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A guide to choosing a kimono, or gi, for Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Why is it important to choose the right kimono?
The kimono is the alpha and omega for Brazilian jiu-jitsu because you will spend every minute on the tatami wearing it—whether it’s hobby training twice a week after work or intense preparation for tournaments. Choosing the right size, cut, and material can have a significant impact not only on your technique and comfort during training but also on how long your kimono will last.
So, whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or an experienced fighter, a well-chosen kimono will make your life much easier.
In this article, I want to explain the basic characteristics of kimonos, introduce you to the differences in materials, cuts, and offer a few tips and personal experiences from my 11 years of BJJ training. Basically, everything you need to choose the right kimono.
From Tradition to Modern Sport
The kimono in Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is derived from Japanese jiu-jitsu and judo. Originally designed for fluid movements and resistance to grips, the kimono adapted to the needs of BJJ with the arrival of Master Mitsuyo Maeda in Brazil in the 20th century. You might often come across the term “gi” (BJJ gi – fighting in kimonos, nogi – without kimonos = grappling). The term “gi” comes from the abbreviation of the Japanese word “keikogi,” which means “training uniform.”
Can I wear a judo or karate
kimono to BJJ training?
If you’re transitioning to BJJ from another sport that uses a kimono, such as judo or karate, you won’t be kicked out of training. So, you don’t necessarily have to invest in a new kimono before you even know if BJJ is for you.
However, if you start taking BJJ a bit more seriously, it’s worth investing in a kimono specifically for BJJ. A karate kimono may be comfortable, but it probably won’t last long in jiu-jitsu. BJJ kimonos are designed to withstand harsher treatment. They are more robust, often with triple stitching, knee reinforcement, and thicker cotton. Essentially, throughout the entire training, someone will be pulling, tearing, or hanging on your kimono with their full weight, and a kimono made for another sport from a softer fabric would soon look more like a patched-up Frankenstein than a training uniform.
If you have a judo kimono, its durability is definitely better than a karate one. However, it differs significantly in cut. Judo kimonos are much looser, making it easier for your opponent to gain an advantage with grips. Not to mention the narrower collar, which puts you at a disadvantage when someone tries to choke you with it.
Therefore, for long-term BJJ training, a kimono specifically for BJJ is a must.
How to Choose the Right Size Kimono?
When choosing a kimono for BJJ, size and fit are crucial. But how do you pick the right one?
Just like other clothing, kimono sizes aren’t consistent across different manufacturers, so always look for a size chart that guides you based on your height and weight. With our kimonos, we even go beyond these parameters and provide various kimono sizes so that everyone can measure them according to their body shape.
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It also often happens that repeated washing and drying slightly shrinks the kimono; this doesn’t happen with all of them, sometimes you won’t even notice it, but sometimes it can be disappointing. So, it’s better to be honest with yourself, and if you’re on the upper limit or between sizes, it’s advisable to choose the larger option.
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If you’re between two sizes, there’s no problem trying the kimono at a store or ordering it, trying it on, and exchanging it if necessary. At Choketopus, we offer free exchanges and you don’t pay for shipping either.
Men's Kimonos
These are labeled with the letter A (adult). The sizes are usually A0, A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, where a higher number means a larger kimono.
For more specific body types, there are also intermediate sizes to ensure the best fit. However, not all manufacturers produce these intermediate sizes.
L (long) for longer pants and sleeves – A2L means the kimono has the width of an A2 but the length of an A3. This option is quite common.
H (husky) for a wider fit – A2H means the length of an A2 but with a wider cut. This variant is rarer.
Women's Kimonos
These are labeled with the letter F (female).
The usual sizes are F0, F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5, where, like men’s, a higher number means a larger kimono.
Here too, there are specific adjustments like the L and H variants, but they are not as common as in men’s cuts.
The kimono differs not only in size (a women’s F2 will be much smaller than a men’s A2) but primarily in cut. Women’s kimonos are tailored to better fit female curves. They have a narrower waist and a wider hip and chest area. Men’s kimonos are usually straighter and broader in the shoulders.
Children's Kimonos
These are usually labeled with the letter M, where weight doesn’t play a role, only the height of the junior. Common sizes are M0000, M000, M0, M1, M2, M3, and M4.
Here, the sizes are often standardized. Some manufacturers also use the letter K (kids), but this is less common.
How Should a Kimono Fit?
If you've never worn a kimono before
When you put on the kimono, it shouldn’t be tight, short, or too narrow. Try doing a squat (it shouldn’t restrict your movement), raise your arms (the sleeve should be at the wrist area and not rolled up to the forearm), and the pants should be at the ankle area, not the calves. If the kimono doesn’t feel awkward after this simple test, it’s probably fine.
You might also be surprised by the collar and the fact that both lapels (the bottom ends of the jacket) are quite long; that’s normal. Similarly, if the pants don’t stay up by themselves at the waist, that’s also normal. They are supposed to be very loose and held up by a drawstring.
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As for the fit, it’s always better to have a slightly looser kimono than to be squeezed into it. Not only might it shrink slightly after several washes (by a few %), but even if it doesn’t, you’ll feel much more comfortable in it.
If you plan to compete
At most Czech or smaller international tournaments, no special rules for lengths are enforced.
However, one of the largest organizations, IBJJF, has quite strict rules that referees always check before the match. They regulate the length of the sleeves and pants, the length of the jacket itself, and also the width of the pants.
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Sometimes, at smaller tournaments, you might be able to trick the referee a little by pulling up your shoulders or lowering your pants, but I wouldn’t count on it. If it’s a more prestigious tournament, the referee will most likely send you off the mat, so I wouldn’t risk it and would be careful.
What Color Kimono Should You Choose?
The choice of colors is entirely up to your taste. They don’t have any hidden meaning or indicate your technical skill level.
In the world of BJJ, the most common kimono colors are blue, black, and white, and they are considered the standard. In gyms, you will encounter these colors in 99% of cases. Also, for some tournaments (like the aforementioned IBJJF), you are required to choose from these three colors.
Besides traditional colors, kimono manufacturers try to stand out with colors like pink, orange, khaki, camo, etc., but this isn’t the norm and is usually limited to rarer editions.
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If you’re the extravagant type and show up at a tournament or training in a completely pink kimono, you will definitely get everyone’s attention
. It might be a bit disappointing, though, if you don’t display equally unique skills during sparring. That’s why I recommend beginners stick to blue, white, or black.
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If your main concern is functionality, a white kimono will slightly yellow under the strain of many training sessions, while black will partially fade and turn from a deep black shade to a lighter one. The ideal choice for you would be blue, which doesn’t change much over time and is more practical.
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In case you train abroad, you might sometimes encounter the requirement to train in one of the three traditional colors. In most gyms, people are friendly and might even lend you a kimono, but it’s nice to let them know in advance.
Patches on Kimonos
Another way to express your unique style is with patches.
You often see patches of the team and gyms where athletes train on their kimonos, or other graphics with slogans and various themes, of which the internet is full.
Here, creativity and skill in sewing are the only limits (again, just be careful with the IBJJF organization when competing, as they are very strict). Just make sure the patch is sewn on properly so that a partner’s finger doesn’t get caught in it during sparring.
Kimono Weight and Fabric Type – What to Choose?
Kimono Weight (GSM)
Another parameter of the kimono is its weight, which is expressed in GSM (grams per square meter). The higher the number, the heavier the kimono will be. Usually, this figure ranges from 375 GSM to 890 GSM.
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If you don’t plan to compete, it doesn’t matter much, and if you stick between 450 – 600 GSM, you won’t go wrong, but for competitions or more frequent training, there are differences that you should consider, and you’ll recognize them over time.
Heavier Kimonos
In general, heavier kimonos are much harder to grip, requiring more strength in the grip, which will show after some time in the match. Your opponent, therefore, has a certain disadvantage when you’re wearing a heavier and stiffer variant. A heavier variant equals more sturdy fabric, so there’s also an advantage in the longer durability of the kimono itself. The kimono will also take longer to dry due to its higher weight.
Lighter Kimonos
The problem with heavier variants is sometimes the weigh-in before the match. In BJJ, you weigh in with the kimono, so when you’re cutting weight, this weight difference really matters, and you’ll definitely appreciate the lighter version. It’s also much more comfortable during training in warmer months, where the less fabric you have, the better (especially when the kimono soaks up sweat, it can make a weight difference of several kilograms).
Personally, I think that if you pursue BJJ as a hobby, the weight of the kimono doesn’t have such an impact. I personally have several kimonos (also because I wash them after every training session), so I always take the lighter one to competitions for weigh-ins, and I don’t worry about it during training.
Type and Technology of the Fabric
To know what we’re talking about, manufacturers indicate the type of fabric (how the fibers are arranged) in jackets. In more traditional kimonos, there are Single Weave, Double Weave, and Golden Weave:
Single Weave
This is a basic, lightweight, and breathable option with a weight around 550GSM, ideal for beginners or as a summer kimono. Although it is more affordable, it offers less durability and is easier to grip, which can be a disadvantage in a match.
Double Weave
This fabric is denser and heavier (double weave) with a weight usually around 750 GSM, making it harder for opponents to grip. It’s suitable for competitive use but is more expensive and less breathable.
Gold Weave
This weave combines the advantages of Single and Double Weave – it’s more durable than Single but lighter than Double. It offers a good compromise between durability and comfort.
Pearl Weave
Currently the most popular type, which combines durability, lightweight, and quick drying. You’ll find it in most kimonos. The weight typically ranges from 350 – 550 GSM.
Pearl Weave kimonos are durable, don’t pill, and offer a good compromise between comfort and functionality.
Pants
Pants are usually made of cotton like the jacket. However, they don’t have a special weave and are basically just “canvas,” which is often doubled at the knees for added durability.
The most common designation is Ripstop.
They are lighter than the jacket but still sturdy enough, and they dry faster. The weight of the pants is measured in ounces (oz); the higher the number, the heavier they are. Most will be around 10oz, which doesn’t mean that the pants themselves weigh that much, but rather that the fabric was so-called 10oz.
The kimono is usually sold as a complete jacket and pants set. At Choketopus, we want to offer more flexibility, so we sell both pieces separately, allowing you to mix and match as you please. – For example, if you know you have a bulkier lower body but are slimmer on top, you can choose A3 pants and an A2 jacket, or vice versa.
Which Kimono Brand to Choose?
The most well-known brands around here include Tatami Fightwear, Scramble, Kingz, and Venum. It’s hard to say definitively which kimonos are better or worse, as most have several lines that differ from each other. It then comes down to personal preference or the kimono’s design.
I personally have competed in most tournaments wearing a kimono from the Hayabusa brand (mainly because that particular model was really lightweight), and I train mostly in our Choketopus kimonos, which we design to suit our needs. We have a tested cut and material that lasts. However, this kimono falls into the premium category due to its unique Japanese-style design.
If you’re just starting out, there’s no need to invest a large sum in your first kimono, and if you choose one of the brands mentioned above, you won’t go wrong! Over time (especially due to washing), you’ll need more kimonos, so you’ll have the chance to try out different options and designs.
How to Care for Your Kimono?
Washing the Kimono
First and foremost, don’t be lazy, and wash your kimono after every training session. I’ll repeat it one more time because it’s really important. Wash your kimono after every training session.
Yes, it’s probably the most annoying thing about BJJ (you’ll realize this when you have more training sessions per week), but it’s really necessary. Not only will your training partners not avoid you because of the smell, but you’ll also protect yourself from various skin infections. There’s nothing better for bacteria and fungi to thrive in than a sweaty kimono that you leave lying around in your bag.
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In some gyms, you’ll encounter the superstition that you shouldn’t wash your belt because you’ll lose your skill. If you’re the type who stuffs garlic in your ear when you have a cold, as grandmothers recommend, or if you wake up on the wrong side of the bed and decide to stay under the covers all day, feel free to follow this superstition. But just like with the kimono, I advise: wash both your kimono and belt after every training session (yep, here’s the advice for the third time
).
The kimono should be washed in cold water (so around 30 degrees) on a gentle cycle – this helps prevent shrinking. You can use a sports laundry detergent, but I’d avoid using too much fabric softener, as it can weaken the fibers of the fabric. Some people also turn the kimono inside out before washing (I don’t do this, though).
Drying the Kimono
To prevent material damage, don’t dry your kimono in the dryer. The best option is to hang it up to air-dry in a shaded area. When I’m in a hurry, I sometimes drape it over a radiator or put it in the sun. However, this isn’t the most gentle method in the long run, whether due to color fading or material damage. Ideally, the kimono should dry naturally in the air and, if possible, not in direct sunlight.
The kimono also doesn’t need to be ironed unless you’re planning to wear it to a wedding (which does occasionally happen for some BJJ couples), no one will care about a wrinkled sleeve. It will straighten out on its own when drying or hanging on a hanger during storage (and if you fold it and toss it in the closet, the world won’t end either).
If you take good care of your kimono, it will last you a really long time. I still use some of my first kimonos, and I’ve been doing jiu-jitsu for over 11 years.
So, which kimono should you buy?
For your first kimono, there’s no need to complicate things, and it can be simplified a lot. Choose from established brands on the market and avoid extremes in both weight and price. You don’t need to go for designer or more expensive kimonos for your first one; feel free to choose something in a lower price range. And for starters, it’s best to stick to basic colors: white, blue, and black.
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Some kimonos are marketed as beginner kimonos. Sometimes, these kimonos come with a belt included.
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If you don’t want or can’t invest in a kimono, even at the basic price range, don’t go for some unknown low-cost brands (the quality might reflect the price, and it won’t last long). Instead, try reaching out to your coach or gym. Sometimes someone is getting rid of their older kimono. It won’t be brand new, but if it’s in good condition, it will be much cheaper and will still last you several years (I trained for several years in one such kimono myself).
Accessories for the Kimono
BJJ Belt
The belt is an essential part of the kimono. This is where the color indicates your technical level in BJJ. For starters, buy a white belt. The other colors will concern you when your coach promotes you to a higher rank. If you show up somewhere with a higher belt than you should have, it’s considered the deepest sign of disrespect.
Ranked from the lowest level: White, blue, purple, brown, and black.
How to Tie Your Belt
Easy answer : Youtube
If you have trouble tying it, don’t worry, your coach will teach you in your first lessons. You can also ask anyone more experienced in the gym; it’s no shame. We’ve all been on the mat for the first time, and we’ve all faced similar challenges.
What Protectors Will I Need?
Mouth Guard
One of the protectors you’ll definitely need is a mouth guard. It’s an essential piece of equipment that you shouldn’t spar without (or even drill with overly enthusiastic partners). It’s a piece of “plastic” that you simply mold to your teeth and that protects your teeth, gums, and even your head from impacts.
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I personally recommend mouth guards from Sisu. In Europe and America, it’s the best-selling brand of mouth guards, used in combat sports, American football, or even hockey. They offer several types with different perforations, allowing you to breathe or drink without any problems, even with the mouth guard in place.
Ear Guards
This protector is mainly for those concerned about their ear appearance. Like in any contact sport, BJJ can cause damage to the ear cartilage, leading to “cauliflower ear.”
Most people don’t wear these protectors during training, as it doesn’t happen to everyone and is more common among those who train intensely. However, accidents do happen, and even beginners can get them. For fighters, these ears are a badge of honor, but the general public doesn’t see them as positively.
Knee/Ankle/Elbow/Shoulder Guards
If ear protectors are rarely used, other guards are used even less. If you don’t have any health issues, you don’t need to worry about these options. If you know you have certain problems, these aids might help relieve them. Feel free to ask your coach; they’ll give you advice.
Special Cosmetics
Not strictly necessary, but a nice bonus that can protect you from unwanted skin infections. In training, many people are on the tatami, rolling on the ground and on you, which can take a toll on your skin.
The best way to clean up afterward is with cosmetics from DEFENSE, founded by a coach of the American wrestling team. It’s made from natural ingredients but with antibacterial properties and soothing agents for the skin.
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It’s also useful to wash and spray the bag or backpack you carry your post-training clothes in from time to time.
What to Wear Under the Kimono?
Under the kimono, you should wear appropriate clothing that ensures comfort, protection, and meets hygiene requirements. The most common combination is a rashguard and sports leggings.
Rashguards
A rashguard is a special compression shirt that wicks sweat but, most importantly, protects your skin from scratches and direct skin-to-skin contact. This way, you’ll avoid getting scratched by your opponent or the kimono itself, which can be quite rough on the skin. If you wore a regular cotton t-shirt under the kimono, it could hang loose during training, and any part of your body getting caught could endanger your partner.
Besides these safety and hygiene benefits, it’s also a nice design accessory, and you can use it not only for jiu-jitsu but also for any other sport, running, or take it to the mountains and the gym.
At Choketopus, we’ve been making rashguards for 10 years with a focus on quality and material durability. Thanks to our excellent seamstresses, we have control over every detail, from the cut to the material, and we’ve fine-tuned our rashguards to meet our exact needs.
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Short-sleeved rashguards are great for exercise or outdoor activities, but for jiu-jitsu, it’s better to choose a long-sleeved rashguard. Unless you absolutely hate the idea of long sleeves, you’ll really appreciate it (and so will your arms).
Where to Buy All This?
As with everything, it’s great to try on the kimono and other items in a store. But nowadays, there’s no need to go out and choose from what’s in stock. Most e-shops offer free shipping above a certain amount (at Choketopus, it’s 1500 CZK), and the kimono is such an item that will easily exceed this threshold.
You can then try on the kimono at home, without rushing or pressure from salespeople. And if it doesn’t fit? There’s no problem sending it back unused. We handle exchanges by sending a return label via email, and return shipping is on us. I think this is now the standard at most stores.
If, after reading the entire article, you still have any questions or anything that wasn’t answered, feel free to contact us! We’ll be happy to help you. info@choketopus.com
And if you’ve read this far… welcome to the BJJ community! OSS!
