What Gear Do You Actually Need to Start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? (Beginner’s Guide)
Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to what you need to wear. Do you need a gi right away? What about rash guards, mouthguards, or all the extras you see online?
The short answer: you need less than you think—but the right choices matter.
This guide breaks down exactly what gear you need to start BJJ, what you can skip (for now), and how to avoid wasting money as a beginner.
Do You Need Special Gear for Your First BJJ Class?
Not necessarily.
Most gyms will let you try a class with minimal equipment. Depending on the class type:
- Gi class: You may be able to borrow a gi from the gym
- No-gi class: Regular workout clothes are usually fine (temporarily)
That said, this only works for your first few sessions.
If you plan to train consistently, you’ll need proper gear quickly—for hygiene, safety, and performance.
For example:
- Loose t-shirts can get stretched or caught
- Regular gym shorts with pockets can trap fingers and toes
A proper rashguard and grappling shorts help prevent these issues.
The Essential BJJ Gear (What You Actually Need)
Let’s separate what’s essential from what’s optional.
1. BJJ Gi (For Gi Training)
If your gym offers gi classes, this is your main piece of equipment.
What it is:
A traditional uniform (jacket, pants, belt) designed for grappling.
What beginners need to know:
- You don’t need an expensive gi to start
- Fit matters more than brand
- Most beginners use white, blue, or black (some gyms require white)
Minimum recommendation:
- 1 gi (2 if you train 3+ times per week)
Beginner-friendly options:
2. Rashguard (Essential for No-Gi, Recommended for Gi)
Even in gi training, a rash guard is a better choice than a loose t-shirt.
Why it matters:
- Prevents skin irritation and mat burn
- Helps reduce bacteria spread
- More comfortable under the gi
For no-gi training, it’s mandatory in most gyms.
Recommended option:
3. Grappling Shorts (For No-Gi)
If you train no-gi, proper shorts are essential.
Avoid:
- Pockets
- Zippers
- Loose-fitting shorts
Why:
They can cause injuries by trapping fingers or toes during scrambles.
Recommended option:
4. Spats / Leggings (Optional but Useful)
Spats aren’t mandatory, but they offer real benefits.
Why consider them:
- Extra hygiene (less skin exposure)
- Prevent mat burn
- Useful in colder environments under the gi
Recommended option:
Optional (But Smart) BJJ Gear for Beginners
Once you’ve got the basics covered, these are worth adding.
Mouthguard
Do you need it?
Not mandatory—but strongly recommended.
Reality:
Accidental elbows and knees happen—especially at beginner level.
Recommended option:
Flip-Flops / Sliders
Why:
- Keeps your feet clean off the mat
- Reduces risk of infections
Every experienced practitioner uses them. Beginners who don’t… usually learn the hard way.
Recommended option:
Gym Bag (With Ventilation)
Your gear will get sweaty—fast.
A breathable bag helps:
- Reduce smell
- Prevent bacteria buildup
Recommended option:
What You DON’T Need (Yet)
Avoid wasting money early on.
You do not need:
- Multiple gis right away
- Expensive premium gear
- Fancy belts or accessories
- BJJ-specific supplements
Start simple. Upgrade based on experience.
How Much Does It Cost to Start BJJ?
A realistic breakdown:
Budget Setup (~€100–€120)
- Basic gi
- Rashguard
Example:
- Roll Pro Essential Gi
- Ground Force Aero Rashguard
Mid-Range Setup (~€150–€180)
- Higher quality gi
- Rashguard
- Grappling shorts
Example:
- Ground Force Basic Gi V3
- Ground Force Aero Rashguard
- Ground Force Aero Shorts
Key principle:
Spending more won’t make you better—it just makes you poorer if you quit early.
Beginner BJJ Gear Mistakes to Avoid
1. Buying cheap gear that falls apart
Cheap is fine. Poor quality isn’t.
2. Buying expensive gear too early
You don’t know your preferences yet.
3. Ignoring hygiene
Dirty gear = people avoid training with you.
4. Wearing the wrong no-gi clothing
Zippers and pockets are a fast way to annoy (or injure) training partners.
When Should You Upgrade Your Gear?
Use this simple rule:
- Train 2–3 weeks → evaluate what you need
- Train 2–3 months consistently → invest in better gear
By then, you’ll understand:
- Fit
- Comfort
- Training frequency
You’ll also know if you need a second gi.
Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple
Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu doesn’t require a big investment.
At minimum, you need:
- A gi (if training gi)
- A rashguard
- Grappling shorts (for no-gi)
Everything else can come later.
The biggest mistake beginners make isn’t buying the wrong gear—it’s overthinking it and delaying training.
Get the basics. Start training. Adjust as you go.