Mastering BJJ Gi Weaves: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Weaves in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Choosing the Perfect Gi

A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right BJJ Gi: Understanding Weaves, GSM, and Fabric Types

Choosing the right BJJ gi can be overwhelming, especially with so many different options available. One of the key factors that distinguish one gi from another is the type of weave used for the jacket. In textiles, the weave refers to the pattern in which two sets of yarn (warp and weft) are interlaced to create the fabric. The type of weave affects the gi’s strength, weight, and durability. Common weaves include Single weave, Pearl weave, And Gold weave, each offering different characteristics. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common types of BJJ gi weaves, explain their pros and cons, and help you understand how to choose the best one for your needs.

What is GSM and Why Does it Matter?

Before diving into the weaves, it’s important to understand GSM, which stands for Grams per Square Meter. GSM measures the weight of the fabric used in the gi. The higher the GSM, the heavier and thicker the gi fabric. A gi’s GSM gives you a good idea of how it will feel when training and how durable it will be. BJJ gis now typically range between 250 GSM and 550 GSM, with lighter fabrics at the lower end and heavier ones at the higher end.

 

• 250-350 GSM BJJ gis are considered ultralight and are perfect for practitioners who prioritize comfort, breathability, and freedom of movement. These lightweight gis are specifically designed to offer minimal bulk while maintaining enough durability for regular training.

 

• Why Choose a 250-350 GSM Gi?
  1. Breathability & Comfort: These lightweight gis are breathable and keep you cooler during hot and humid training sessions, making them ideal for summer months or practitioners training in warmer climates.
  2. Quick Drying: The lighter material tends to dry faster after washing, making it a convenient option for those who train frequently or need a gi that won’t stay damp for long.
  3. Flexibility: Ultralight gis are less stiff than heavier ones, allowing for greater flexibility and agility during rolls. This is especially useful for those who need to move quickly, like in fast-paced tournaments.
  4. Less Bulk: A lighter gi means less bulk on your body, which can be especially advantageous in competitions where grip strength and maneuverability are key. Practitioners often feel lighter and more agile in these types of gis.
  5. Ideal for Tournament Use: 350 GSM Pearl Weave is especially popular for ultralight tournament gis. It’s light enough for maximum flexibility while maintaining a level of durability that can withstand competition-level intensity. These gis allow practitioners to move freely without feeling weighed down.

 

• Pros of 250-350 GSM Ultralight Gis:

  • Great for Hot Weather: Keep cool during intense training in warm climates.
  • Comfortable & Agile: Light, flexible, and ideal for fast-paced rolls or competitions.
  • Affordable: Usually more affordable than heavier gis, making them a good choice for beginners or those on a budget.
  • Durable for Regular Use: While lightweight, they are still designed to handle regular training, though they may wear out faster than heavier weaves with intensive use.

  Cons:

  • Less Durability: Ultralight gis, while comfortable, may wear out faster than heavier options like double or gold weave, especially after frequent use.
  • Less Resistance: Because of their lightweight nature, these gis offer less grip resistance, which could be a disadvantage in certain grappling situations where a more substantial gi is preferred.

  Best for:

  • Beginners: Ideal for those just starting in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
  • Casual Practitioners: Great for those who train occasionally or prefer a gi that is easy to maintain.
  • Tournaments: Perfect for competitors looking for a fast, light, and breathable gi that doesn’t restrict their movement.
  • Hot Climates: Perfect for practitioners in warmer environments or during summer months.

• Final Thoughts:

  If you’re looking for a gi that prioritizes comfort, breathability, and flexibility, then a 250-350 GSM ultralight gi is an excellent choice. While it may not offer the same durability as heavier weaves, its lightness and agility make it perfect for those who train in warm weather or need a gi that allows for maximum movement. Whether you’re a beginner, tournament competitor, or someone who simply enjoys training in a lightweight gi, these options will provide the comfort and performance you need.

 

•  450 GSM BJJ Gis: Durable, Performance-Driven, and Ideal for Serious Practitioners

The 450 GSM Pearl Weave is a popular choice for those who want a medium-heavy gi that offers a good balance of durability, flexibility, and performance. It provides more durability than lighter gis like 350 GSM but isn’t as bulky as a 550 GSM, making it suitable for regular training, competitions, and all-around use.

 

• Why Choose a 450 GSM Pearl Weave Gi?

1. Durability with Flexibility: A 450 GSM Pearl Weave gi is built to handle intense training and frequent use while still offering enough flexibility for a wide range of movements. It’s a versatile gi that works well for both sparring and competitions.
2. Grip Resistance: The medium weight provides increased resistance during grips, making it ideal for practitioners who want to improve their grip strength or need a gi that can offer some extra challenge in a competition.
3. Comfortable for Regular Use: This weight offers a solid balance of durability and comfort, making it suitable for those who train regularly but still want a gi that isn’t too heavy or restrictive.
4. Perfect for Competitions: 450 GSM Pearl Weave is commonly used in tournaments because it provides the right amount of resistance and durability, allowing practitioners to move freely while still having the benefits of a stronger grip resistance.

Pros of 450 GSM Pearl Weave Gis:

• Good Balance of Durability and Flexibility: Offers enough resistance for grips while still allowing for quick and fluid movement.
• Durable for Regular Training: Can withstand multiple sessions per week without showing signs of wear.
• Ideal for Competitions: Provides a competitive edge with enhanced grip resistance and comfort for both competitors and those who train at a high level.
• Comfortable for All-Day Wear: Suitable for practitioners who prefer a gi that feels comfortable for extended training sessions.

Cons:

• Heavier Than Lighter Gis: While not overly bulky, it is heavier than lighter gis (e.g., 250 GSM), which may not be ideal for those who prefer ultralight options.
• Can Feel Stiff Initially: New 450 GSM gis might feel a bit stiff but will soften after washing and wearing.

Best For:

• Intermediate to Advanced Practitioners: Those who train several times a week and need a gi that can handle regular wear without sacrificing comfort.
• Competitors: Provides excellent grip resistance and durability for tournament training and competitive rolls.
• Regular Training: Perfect for those who train consistently and need a durable yet comfortable gi.

Final Thoughts:

The 450 GSM Pearl Weave gi offers a great balance of durability and comfort, making it ideal for practitioners who train regularly. It provides increased grip resistance for better performance in training and competition while still allowing for good flexibility. Not too heavy or too light, it’s perfect for those seeking a durable gi that won’t feel too bulky, providing a reliable option for both everyday use and tournaments. If you’re looking for a gi that performs well under pressure but remains comfortable, the 450 GSM Pearl Weave is an excellent choice.

 

• 550 GSM: Heavier Gis for Maximum Durability and Grip Resistance

The 550 GSM Pearl Weave gi is known for its heavy-duty construction, providing exceptional durability and maximum grip resistance. This gi is perfect for high-level practitioners who want a gi that can withstand even the most intense training sessions, competitions, and hard rolls.

 

• Why Choose a 550 GSM Pearl Weave Gi?

1. Built for Maximum Durability: A 550 GSM gi is incredibly durable, ideal for those who train intensively or need a gi that can handle the physical demands of BJJ. It’s designed to last through the most rigorous training and sparring sessions.
2. Enhanced Grip Resistance: The added thickness provides significant resistance during grips, which is useful for athletes who want to challenge their opponents’ grips or work on their own grip strength. This feature is particularly beneficial in competitions, where grip is often a critical factor.
3. Warmth and Protection: The heavier fabric provides extra warmth, making it ideal for colder climates or for practitioners who prefer a heavier gi for added protection during training. It also offers extra protection for intense rolls and tough sparring sessions.
4. Built for Intense Use: The 550 GSM Pearl Weave gi is made for those who need the most durable option available. It is ideal for competitors or practitioners who train at a high level and need a gi that can handle intense wear without showing signs of damage.

Pros of 550 GSM Pearl Weave Gis:

• Incredible Durability: Built to withstand the toughest training and hardest rolls.
• Maximum Grip Resistance: Ideal for competitors who want extra grip challenge or improved grip strength.
• Warmth and Protection: Provides extra warmth, making it perfect for colder training environments.
• Long-lasting: Extremely durable, making it a great choice for high-intensity training and frequent use.

Cons:

• Heavy and Restrictive: The 550 GSM gi can feel bulky and less flexible, especially in hot weather. This can make it feel somewhat restrictive during fast-paced movements.
• Stiffness: Due to the heavy fabric, a new 550 GSM gi may feel stiff at first and take a longer time to break in.

Best For:

• Advanced Practitioners: Those who train intensively and need a gi that can withstand frequent use and high-intensity rolls.
• Competitors: Especially beneficial for those who compete regularly and need a gi that offers excellent grip resistance and durability.
• Cold Climates: Ideal for those training in colder conditions or those who prefer the warmth and protection a heavier gi offers.

Final Thoughts:

The 550 GSM Pearl Weave gi is built for maximum durability and grip resistance, making it perfect for high-level practitioners and competitors who train intensively. While it’s heavier and less flexible than lighter gis, its extra durability and warmth make it ideal for tough training and colder climates. If you need a gi that can withstand heavy use and offer a strong grip challenge, the 550 GSM Pearl Weave is a top choice for serious BJJ practitioners.

 

Understanding BJJ Gi Weaves: What Makes the Fabric Look Different?

When looking at various BJJ gis, you might notice that the fabric seems to have different textures, patterns, or finishes. This variation is due to the type of weave used in the fabric. The weave refers to the way the threads (also known as “warp” and “weft”) are interlaced to create the fabric. Each type of weave not only affects the appearance but also the feel, durability, and performance of the gi.

To understand how this works, let’s break down the basic structure:

• Warp Threads: These are the threads that are aligned vertically on the loom. They are typically the stronger threads and provide the structural integrity of the fabric.
• Weft Threads: These are the horizontal threads that are woven over and under the warp threads. The interaction between the warp and the weft creates the texture and pattern of the fabric.

The difference in how these threads are woven together determines the type of weave and the unique characteristics of the fabric. Below are some key weaves used in BJJ gis and what makes each of them unique:

 

• Common BJJ Gi Fabrics Used by Brands

 

• Single Weave BJJ Gi Fabric 

Single Weave is considered the basic weave and is commonly used in entry-level BJJ gis due to its affordable price. This fabric is lightweight, comfortable, and soft to train in, thanks to its looser weave structure compared to tighter weaves like Pearl Weave.

While Single Weave may not be as durable as other heavier weaves, it still offers good longevity, especially with proper care. Many practitioners use Single Weave gis for everyday training, as they provide comfort and flexibility at a budget-friendly price. It’s an excellent choice for beginners or those seeking a lightweight gi.

 

• Pearl Weave BJJ Gi Fabric

Pearl Weave is the most popular fabric used for BJJ gis, making up at least 80% of the market. It’s favored because it’s affordable, durable, and comes in a variety of weights. Unlike some other weaves, Pearl Weave shrinks very little and holds up well over time, even with a lower GSM.

The fabric has a raised, textured appearance, created by alternating loose and tight wefts. This makes it soft and comfortable while still being strong enough to withstand regular training. However, lower-quality Pearl Weave can feel stiff and rough, so it’s important to choose a good quality gi.

A slight downside is that Pearl Weave doesn’t shrink much. If you need a gi to shrink a lot, another weave might be a better option. Overall, Pearl Weave is versatile, affordable, and durable, making it the go-to choice for most BJJ practitioners.

 

• Gold Weave BJJ Gi Fabric

 

• Double Weave BJJ Gi Fabric

Double Weave is a thick, durable, and heavy fabric, made by weaving two sets of warp threads with one or more sets of weft, creating a double-layered material. This structure makes it incredibly strong and resistant to grips, which was once highly valued in tournament gis due to its difficulty for opponents to grab.

However, as BJJ has evolved, most modern tournament gis now focus on being lightweight to improve mobility and weight management. With a growing preference for faster, more agile gis, the heavy nature of Double Weave made it less suitable for competitive athletes aiming to stay at their optimal weight.

Despite its decline in popularity for competition, Double Weave remains a solid choice for those who value strength and durability in a gi. It’s particularly favored by practitioners transitioning from Judo, where thicker fabrics are common. While it may not be ideal for competition due to its weight and potential movement restriction, it can still be a great option for training or for those who appreciate a more resistant gi.

 

• Ripstop Weave

Ripstop is a lightweight fabric commonly used for BJJ gi pants and grappling shorts, as well as travel gis. It’s known for its tear-resistant grid structure, which makes it durable without adding much weight. While Ripstop was once popular for gi jackets, it has become less common due to restrictions from major tournaments like IBJJF, where it’s banned for gi jackets due to concerns over durability. The fabric is incredibly light, making it ideal for hot weather training and travel, as it’s easy to pack and dries quickly. However, some practitioners find its waxy feel uncomfortable, and its stiffness can be a downside for long training sessions. Despite these drawbacks, it’s still favored in competition pants and lightweight gis, providing a balance of strength and flexibility.

 

• Cotton Twill Fabric

Cotton twill is a durable and versatile material often used in BJJ gi pants due to its strong and smooth texture. The fabric is woven with a distinctive diagonal pattern, which makes it resistant to wear and tear. This pattern, called the twill weave, gives the fabric a slightly textured feel, which is often softer and more flexible than other types of cotton. Cotton twill pants are comfortable and breathable, with the added benefit of being able to withstand heavy use over time. They come in a range of thicknesses, from lightweight options perfect for warmer climates to heavier twill fabrics that offer more durability for intense training. While ripstop pants gained popularity due to their lightweight and tear-resistant properties, cotton twill remains a favorite for practitioners seeking comfort and longevity in their training gear.

 

• Hemp Fabric for BJJ Gis

 

• Synthetic Fabrics for BJJ Gis: Polyester & Microfiber

Polyester and microfiber are synthetic fabrics often used in BJJ gis, primarily due to their lightweight, durable, and low-maintenance properties. While not as traditional as cotton, these materials have gained popularity for their specific advantages in performance and ease of care.

Polyester

Polyester is a synthetic fiber known for its strength and resistance to shrinkage and wrinkling. Many BJJ gis use a polyester-cotton blend, combining the best of both worlds. Polyester adds durability to the fabric and helps the gi retain its shape and color longer, even after frequent washing. It is also lightweight, making it a popular choice for those seeking a gi that dries quickly and feels comfortable during training. Polyester is especially favored for competition gis due to its ability to withstand tough training conditions.

Microfiber

Microfiber is an ultra-fine synthetic fabric, typically made from a blend of polyester and polyamide (nylon). This fabric is known for its soft feel and smooth texture, providing a more flexible and comfortable fit compared to heavier cotton-based fabrics. Microfiber BJJ gis are breathable, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking, making them ideal for high-intensity training sessions. Microfiber is also lightweight, which makes it a good option for those who want to stay agile on the mat without the bulkiness of traditional gis.

Advantages of Synthetic Fabrics

• Lightweight and breathable: Perfect for hot climates or intense training.
• Durability: Resistant to wear and tear, and does not shrink or fade easily.
• Quick-drying: Great for athletes who train frequently.
• Low maintenance: Easy to care for with minimal shrinkage or wrinkles.

Disadvantages

• Less natural feel: May not be as comfortable as cotton-based fabrics, especially for long sessions.
• Less eco-friendly: Synthetic fabrics are derived from petroleum-based sources, making them less sustainable compared to natural fibers like cotton or hemp.

 

Custom BJJ Gi Weaves

In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, many brands offer their own custom weaves, often boasting unique names such as Honeycomb, Platinum, Hyper, Crystal, and others. While these weaves may seem special or innovative, they usually fall under one of the main weave categories like single weave, pearl weave, or gold weave. In most cases, the performance and look of these custom weaves are not drastically different from the established weaves but may feature slight variations in texture or weave pattern.

Why Do Brands Create Custom Weaves?

• Marketing Appeal: Custom names help differentiate a brand’s product in a crowded market and create a sense of exclusivity.
• Slight Modifications: While the core structure of the weave remains similar to the standard types, companies may tweak the design to enhance specific features like durability, comfort, or breathability.
• Target Specific Needs: Some custom weaves may be created with specific uses in mind, such as competition gis, travel gis, or summer gis designed to be lighter and more breathable.

Common Custom BJJ Gi Weaves and Their Variations:

• Honeycomb Weave: Similar to a single weave, it has a textured appearance that looks like a honeycomb pattern. It’s lightweight, breathable, and great for hot weather.
• Platinum Weave: A higher-end, durable version of the pearl weave, offering a softer feel and more resistance to shrinkage.
• Hyper Weave: Often marketed as an ultra-durable and lightweight weave, designed for high-performance athletes.
• Crystal Weave: Typically a variant of pearl weave with additional tweaks to enhance comfort and movement flexibility.

Performance & Functionality

In general, custom weaves perform similarly to their parent weaves. The differences often lie in the aesthetic or minor functional changes made by the manufacturer, such as the tightness or looseness of the weave, which can impact durability, weight, and breathability.

For instance, while a honeycomb weave may be lighter and more breathable, it will still offer the same durability and comfort expected from a single weave gi. Similarly, a hyper weave may offer slightly more stretch or comfort, but it won’t drastically outperform a pearl weave in terms of longevity or overall quality.

Conclusion

Custom weaves, although often marketed as unique, generally fall into established categories and may not offer dramatic differences in performance. However, they can be a good way for brands to differentiate themselves and cater to specific market needs. Whether you opt for a honeycomb, platinum, or hyper weave, the choice should depend on your training needs, comfort preferences, and durability requirements.