Jiu Jitsu Beginner’s Gear Guide – A Checklist

When I started Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, I did a ton of research on what BJJ gear I needed. What I found is that there is no single place out there that puts together a comprehensive list of Jiu Jitsu gear for beginners. This post and future posts as well will be my attempt to do so. Here are the different items you will need for BJJ (I am talking about traditional BJJ with a gi, not no-gi BJJ):

The basics (and the required)

1. Jiu Jitsu Gi – it needs to be a gi made for BJJ, not Judo or any other martial art. For instance, Judo Gis have much wider sleeves to make throwing easier. Trust me, you don’t want to give your opponent more to grab! Further, they will not be approved for IBJJF competition. For info on how to choose your Gi, click here.
2. BJJ Belt – for beginners that will of course be the white belt. Note that a majority of gis do not come with a belt.

Optional but highly recommended (especially during training)

1. Rash Guard – popular for no-gi BJJ and MMA as they limit skin-on-skin contact, which will help prevent the spread of skin born diseases like ring worm. Additionally, they don’t hold onto moisture so you won’t be soaking wet and smelly. I like to use them with a gi also because it helps limit the rug-burn like effect of the rough gi on your body, especially your elbows.
2. Mouth Guard – I know at least one person who got accidentally hit in the face and his tooth punched through his lower lip. Ouch! Easily avoided with a mouth guard.
3. Groin Cup – see my article on Groin Cups for more info.
4. Knee pads – ever get rug burn? You will spend a ton of time on your knees when rolling, and your gi is made of rougher material than most carpets. I had my knees bleed quite a few times before I got smart. You’ll want something lightweight, flexible, and tight so it does not move easily.
5. Head Gear / Ear Protectors – see my article on cauliflower ear and how to avoid it. You’ll want headgear that does not stick out too much as you don’t want to give you opponent extra to hold onto when it comes to preventing you from escaping chokes.

For a more comprehensive guide, check out this BJJ Beginner’s Gear Guide. Good luck finding the right Jiu Jitsu gear for you. I personally had fun putting together my arsenal!