Ultimate BJJ Gi Size Chart and Fitting Guide: A Beginner's Journey to Choosing the Perfect Gi Explained

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If you practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you know how important it is to have a well-fitting Gi. A Gi too big or too small can affect your performance, comfort, and safety on the mats. But how do you find the right size for your Gi? Reading a BJJ Gi size chart seems straightforward, but it can be a hassle if you do not understand the nuances.

That is where this article comes into play.

How Do I know my BJJ GI size?

You should know that BJJ Gi sizes are not standardized across brands. Each brand’s size chart may vary depending on the Gi’s model, cut, and material.

Some brands offer more options than others, such as half sizes, long sizes, short sizes, or slim-fit sizes.

Therefore, the best way to know your BJJ Gi size is to refer to the specific size chart of the brand and model you are interested in. You can usually find the size chart on the product page or the brand’s website. If not, you can contact the brand’s customer service and ask for it.

However, before you look at the size chart, you must know how to measure yourself or your existing Gi. This will help you compare your measurements with the size chart and find the closest match.

BJJ Gi Size Charts

As mentioned, each brand has its own size chart and sizing system. However, most brands use a similar format for their size charts. They usually consist of a letter and a number (e.g., A1, A2, A3, etc.), where the letter indicates who the Gi is for (A for adult men, F for adult women, M for adult unisex, K for kids), and the number indicates how big or small the Gi is.

Some brands also use additional letters to indicate variations in height or weight (e.g., A1L for long, A1H for heavy) or fit (e.g., A1F for fitted). These variations are not always available for every model or brand, so check the size chart carefully.

Here are some examples of BJJ Gi size charts from different brands:

Fuji

Fuji offer high-quality Gis that are pre-shrunk and durable. Their size chart is simple and easy to follow. They only use A and F letters for adult men and women, respectively, and K for kids. Fuji Kimonos also offers half sizes (e.g., A2.5) for some models.

[Expand] Fuji Gi Size Chart

Size	Height (in)	Weight (lbs)	Height (cm)	Weight (kg)
A0	5’0″ – 5’4″	95 – 120 lbs	152.4 – 162.6 cm	43.09 – 54.43 kg
A1	5’4″ – 5’8″	120 – 155 lbs	162.6 – 172.7 cm	54.43 – 70.31 kg
A1L	5’6″ – 5’9″	125 – 160 lbs	167.6 – 175.3 cm	56.70 – 72.57 kg
A2	5’8″ – 6’0″	155 – 190 lbs	172.7 – 182.9 cm	70.31 – 86.18 kg
A2L	5’11″ – 6’2″	160 – 195 lbs	180.3 – 188 cm	72.57 – 88.45 kg
A2H	5’8″ – 6’0″	190 – 225 lbs	172.7 – 182.9 cm	86.18 – 102.06 kg
A3	6’0″ – 6’4″	190 – 225 lbs	182.9 – 193.0 cm	86.18 – 102.06 kg
A3L	6’2″ – 6’5″	195 – 230 lbs	188 – 195.6 cm	88.45 – 104.33 kg
A3H	6’0″ – 6’4″	225 – 260 lbs	182.9 – 193.0 cm	102.06 – 117.93 kg
A4	6’3″ – 6’7″	225 – 270 lbs	190.5 – 200.7 cm	102.06 – 122.47 kg
A5	>6’4″	>270 lbs	>193.0 cm	>122.47 kg

Tatami

Another well-known and respected brand in BJJ. They offer various Gis with different designs, materials, and cuts. Their size chart is more detailed and comprehensive than most brands. Tatami uses A and F letters for adult men and women, respectively, but utilizes M (M0 to M4) for kids. Long and short sizes are unique in the Tatami Gi series (e.g., A1L, A1S) but are only available in some models.

[Expand] Tatami Gi Size Chart

Size	Height (in)	Weight (lbs)	Height (cm)	Weight (kg)
A0	5’2″ – 5’6″	110 – 140 lbs	157.5 – 167.6 cm	49.9 – 63.5 kg
A0S	5’0″ – 5’4″	110 – 140 lbs	152.4 – 162.6 cm	49.9 – 63.5 kg
A0L	5’4″ – 5’8″	110 – 140 lbs	162.6 – 172.7 cm	49.9 – 63.5 kg
A1	5’6″ – 5’9″	140 – 165 lbs	167.6 – 175.3 cm	63.5 – 74.8 kg
A1S	5’4″ – 5’7″	140 – 165 lbs	162.6 – 170.2 cm	63.5 – 74.8 kg
A1L	5’8″ – 6’0″	140 – 165 lbs	172.7 – 182.9 cm	63.5 – 74.8 kg
A2	5’9″ – 6’0″	165 – 187 lbs	175.3 – 182.9 cm	74.8 – 85.2 kg
A2S	5’7″ – 5’10″	165 – 187 lbs	170.2 – 177.8 cm	74.8 – 85.2 kg
A2L	6’0″ – 6’3″	165 – 187 lbs	182.9 – 190.5 cm	74.8 – 85.2 kg
A2XL	>6’3″	<187 lbs	>190.5 cm	<85.2 kg
A3	6’0″ – 6’3″	187 – 210 lbs	182.9 – 190.5 cm	85.2 – 95.3 kg
A3S	5’10″ – 6’1″	187 – 210 lbs	177.8 – 185.4 cm	85.2 – 95.3 kg
A3L	>6’3″	<210 lbs	>190.5 cm	<95.3 kg
A4	>6’3″	>210 lbs	>190.5 cm	>95.3 kg

Kingz

A relatively new but fast-growing brand in BJJ. They offer modern and stylish GIs with innovative features and materials. Their size chart is similar to Tatami’s but with some notable differences. They use A and F letters for adult men and women, respectively, and for kids. However, they also offer long and heavy sizes (e.g., A2L, A2H) for some models.

[Expand] Kingz Gi Size Chart

Size	Height (in)	Weight (lbs)	Height (cm)	Weight (kg)
A0	<5’4″	<135 lbs	<162.6 cm	<61.2 kg
A1	<5’8″	<165 lbs	<172.7 cm	<74.8 kg
A1L	<5’11”	<165 lbs	<180.3 cm	<74.8 kg
A2	<6’0″	<200 lbs	<182.9 cm	<90.7 kg
A2L	<6’3″	<200 lbs	<190.5 cm	<90.7 kg
A2H	<6’0″	>200 lbs	<182.9 cm	>90.7 kg
A3	<6’3″	<245 lbs	<190.5 cm	<111.1 kg
A3L	>6’3″	<245 lbs	>190.5 cm	<111.1 kg
A4	>6’4″	>245 lbs	>193 cm	>111.1 kg

Gold BJJ

Gold BJJ is a relatively young company. Started in 2016 by two dedicated BJJ practitioners, Cole and Dave. The company prides itself on its customer service. Cole and Dave interact with their customers every day, and are proud representatives of their brand. Gold BJJ stock and ship all of their orders within one business day, and they train in their gear every morning.

[Expand] Gold BJJ Gi Size Chart

Size	Height (in)	Weight (lbs)	Height (cm)	Weight (kg)
A0	<5’5″	<140 lbs	<165.1 cm	<63.5 kg
A0H	<5’5″	120 – 175 lbs	<165.1 cm	54.5 – 79.5 kg
A1	5’5″ – 5’9″	120 – 165 lbs	165.1 – 175.2 cm	54.5 – 74.8 kg
A1H	5’5″ – 5’9″	160 – 200 lbs	165.1 – 175.2 cm	72.6 – 90.7 kg
A1L	5’8″ – 5’11”	120 – 165 lbs	172.7 – 180.3 cm	54.5 – 74.8 kg
A2	5’8″ – 6’0″	150 – 190 lbs	172.7 – 182.9 cm	68.0 – 86.2 kg
A2H	5’8″ – 6’0″	185 – 230 lbs	172.7 – 182.9 cm	83.9 – 104.3 kg
A2L	6’0″ – 6’2″	150 – 190 lbs	182.9 – 188.0 cm	68.0 – 86.2 kg
A3	5’11” – 6’3″	185 – 240 lbs	180.3 – 190.5 cm	83.9 – 108.9 kg
A3H	5’11” – 6’3″	220 – 280 lbs	180.3 – 190.5 cm	99.8 – 127.0 kg
A3L	6’2″ – 6’6″	190 – 230 lbs	188.0 – 198.1 cm	86.2 – 104.3 kg
A4	6’3″ – 6’6″	220 – 280 lbs	190.5 – 198.1 cm	99.8 – 127.0 kg
A5	>6’5″	>240 lbs	>198.1 cm	>108.9 kg

Revgear

Since 1996, Revgear is a top choice for athletes seeking high-quality gear due to their innovative products and rigorous testing procedures.

[Expand] Revgear Gi Size Chart

Size	Height (in)	Weight (lbs)	Height (cm)	Weight (kg)
M00	3’5″ – 3’8″	35 lbs	104.1 – 111.8 cm	15.9 kg
M0	3’9″ – 4’0″	50 lbs	114.3 – 121.9 cm	22.7 kg
M1	4’1″ – 4’4″	70 lbs	124.5 – 132.1 cm	31.8 kg
M2	4’5″ – 4’8″	90 lbs	135.2 – 142.2 cm	40.8 kg
M3	4’9″ – 4’11”	120 lbs	144.8 – 150.5 cm	54.5 kg
A0	5’0″ – 5’2″	135 lbs	152.4 – 157.5 cm	61.2 kg
A1	5’3″ – 5’5″	150 lbs	160.0 – 165.1 cm	68.0 kg
A2	5’6″ – 5’8″	170 lbs	167.6 – 172.7 cm	77.1 kg
A3	5’9″ – 6’0″	190 lbs	175.2 – 182.9 cm	86.2 kg
A4	6’1″ – 6’4″	220 lbs	185.4 – 193.0 cm	99.8 kg
A5	5’5″ – 6’8″	240 lbs	165.1 – 203.2 cm	108.9 kg
A6	>6’8″	260 lbs	>203.2 cm	117.9 kg

KVRA

KVRA was started in Brazil by Black Belt Marcelo Baek in 2013. Marcelo and his family actually emigrated from Korea to Brazil. Marcelo started training BJJ to deal with bullies, and he was inspired when he saw Royce Gracie on TV. Both of Marcelo’s parents worked with fabric, so he feels he had a head start when creating his brand.

Expand KVRA Gi Size Chart

Size	Height (in)	Weight (lbs)	Height (cm)	Weight (kg)
A0	<5’6″	150 lbs	<169 cm	68 kg
A1	<5’8″	159 lbs	<174 cm	72 kg
A2	<5’8″	187 lbs	<175 cm	85 kg
A3	<6’0″	209 lbs	<185 cm	95 kg
A4	>6’1″	265 lbs	>210 cm	+120 kg

Elite Sports

Elite Sports was born out of the necessity to fill a quality gap in the market. As martial arts become more popular, the quantity of poorly designed and made products increases. Elite sports aims to provide high-quality, long-lasting products at affordable prices. This approach helped establish Elite as one of the best gi brands in the world very quickly compared to other brands.

[Expand] Elite Sports Gi Size Chart

lbs/in

4’9″

4’10”

4’11”

5’0″

5’1″

5’2″

5’3″

5’4″

5’5″

5’6″

5’7″

5’8″

5’9″

5’10”

5’11”

6’0″

6’1″

6’2″

6’3″

kg/cm

144.8 cm

147.3 cm

150.2 cm

152.4 cm

154.9 cm

157.5 cm

160.0 cm

162.6 cm

165.1 cm

167.6 cm

170.2 cm

172.7 cm

175.2 cm

177.8 cm

180.3 cm

182.9 cm

185.4 cm

188.0 cm

190.5 cm

95 lbs

43.09 kg

100 lbs

45.36 kg

105 lbs

47.63 kg

110 lbs

49.90 kg

115 lbs

52.16 kg

120 lbs

54.43 kg

125 lbs

56.70 kg

130 lbs

59.01 kg

135 lbs

61.23 kg

140 lbs

63.50 kg

145 lbs

65.77 kg

150 lbs

68.04 kg

155 lbs

70.31 kg

160 lbs

72.58 kg

165 lbs

74.85 kg

170 lbs

77.11 kg

175 lbs

79.38 kg

180 lbs

81.65 kg

185 lbs

83.92 kg

190 lbs

86.19 kg

195 lbs

88.46 kg

200 lbs

90.72 kg

205 lbs

92.99 kg

210 lbs

95.26 kg

215 lbs

97.53 kg

220 lbs

99.80 kg

225 lbs

102.07 kg

230 lbs

104.34 kg

235 lbs

106.61 kg

240 lbs

108.88 kg

245 lbs

111.15 kg

250 lbs

113.40 kg

255 lbs

115.67 kg

260 lbs

117.94 kg

265 lbs

120.21 kg

270 lbs

122.48 kg

These are just some examples of BJJ Gi size charts from different brands. You can find more size charts from other brands online or by contacting them directly. I can’t stress this enough: Always check the size chart of the specific brand and model you are interested in before buying a new Gi.

How to Read a Gi Size Chart?

Now that you know how to read a Gi size chart, you may wonder how BJJ Gi sizes generally work. What do the letters and numbers mean? How are they determined? And why are they different from other clothing sizes?

The answer is that BJJ Gi sizes are based on the traditional Japanese kimono sizes originally used for Judo Gis. Judo Gis are similar to BJJ Gis but feature cut, fit, and material differences.

Judo Gi sizes use numbers from zero to seven (e.g., J0, J1, J2, etc.), where zero is the smallest and seven is the largest. Judo Gi sizes tend to run small for Westerners due to the smaller stature of Japanese people.

BJJ gi sizes also use letters and numbers, but in a more adaptable way, so they fit different body types and preferences of BJJ practitioners worldwide. We discussed how the letters and numbers work in the previous section.

Reading the chart is not difficult, but what is the point of reading it if you don’t have any reference to compare it? That is where measurements enter the frame.

How do I Measure Myself?

One of the most critical steps in finding the right size for your BJJ Gi is correctly measuring yourself. You can use a tape measure or a ruler to measure your height, weight, chest, waist, arm length, leg length, etc. These measurements will help you compare your size with the size chart of the brand and model you are interested in.

There are two ways to measure yourself: from an existing BJJ Gi that fits well or your body.

Measuring From an Existing BJJ Gi:

If you already have a BJJ Gi that fits well, you can use it as a reference to measure yourself. This method is easier and more accurate than measuring from your body, as it considers the fit and shrinkage of the Gi.

First, lay your Gi flat on the floor or on a large table. Ensure it is clean and dry and washed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Then, measure the dimensions of your Gi using a tape measure or a ruler. You can use the following diagram as a guide:

Here are some additional tips for measuring your Gi correctly:

Make sure your Gi is not stretched or wrinkled when you measure it.
Measure from seam to seam, not from edge to edge.
Measure along the Gi’s center line, not the curves or folds.
For the sleeves and pants, measure the length from the shoulder seam and the waistband, respectively, not from the collar or the cuff.
Measure the width of the chest and waist from armpit to armpit and from hip to hip.

Measuring From Your Body

If you don’t have a Jiu Jitsu Gi that fits well at your disposal, or if you want to buy a new Gi that is significantly different from your existing one, you can measure yourself using direct measurements of your body.

This method is more complex and less accurate than measuring from an existing Gi, as it needs to consider the fit and shrinkage of the Gi.

Wear light clothing or underwear that does not add bulk to your body. Make sure you are comfortable and relaxed and have enough space to move around.

You’ll need to measure your height, weight, chest and waist circumference, and the length of your arms and legs.

Here’s how to perform those measurements flawlessly:

Make sure you are standing straight and looking forward when you measure your height and weight.
Breathe normally, and do not hold your breath when you measure your chest and waist.
Aim to measure around the fullest part of your chest and waist, not under or over them.
For your arms, measure from the end of your shoulder to the end of your wrist bone. For the legs, start at the top of your hip bone and finish at the bottom of your ankle bone.
Always measure both sides of your body and take the average for each measurement, not just one side.

Using a Gi Size Calculator

Another way to determine your BJJ Gi size is by using a calculator. A BJJ Gi size calculator is an online tool that allows you to enter your measurements and get a recommended size for a specific brand and model of Gi.

A Gi size calculator is convenient and easy to use but is not always accurate or reliable. It depends on how precise your measurements are, how updated the size chart of the brand and model is, and how well the calculator’s algorithm works.

Therefore, we recommend using a Gi size calculator as a reference only, not a final decision.

Tips for Finding the Right-Sized BJJ Gi

Finding the right size for your BJJ gi involves trial and error and personal preference. Finding the right-sized BJJ gi may take some time and effort, but it is worth it in the long run.

Some general tips can help you find the best fit for your Gi:

Factor in how it fits. The fit of a Gi is how tight or loose it is on your body. It depends on the cut, material, and design of the Gi, as well as on your body shape and preference. A tighter fit may restrict your movement and make you more vulnerable to grips and chokes, while a looser fit may create more space and make you more difficult to control. Pick a fit that suits your style and preference but also follows the rules and regulations of BJJ competitions.
Consider the shrinkage. The shrinkage of a Gi refers to how much it shrinks after washing and drying. Shrinkage depends on the material, quality, and washing method. Some materials, such as cotton or hemp, shrink more than others. Some Gis are pre-shrunk or sanforized, which means they have been treated to reduce shrinkage. Furthermore, certain washing methods cause more shrinkage than others, such as hot water or machine drying. You have to factor in shrinkage when consulting a BJJ Gi size chart and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to wash and dry your Gi properly.
Try it on (whenever possible). The best way to know if a Gi fits well is to try it on. You can try it on at a store or the gym if someone else has the Gi you’re considering buying.
Ask for feedback. Another way to know if a Gi fits well is to ask for feedback from other people. You can ask your instructor, coach, teammates, or the online community for their opinion on a particular Gi and how it performs.
Keep the receipt. If you buy a new Gi online and mess up the sizing, you can exchange or return it. Check the seller’s return policy before purchasing a new Gi, and see the conditions and deadlines for exchanging or returning it.

FAQs

Check out the answers to some of the most common questions about BJJ Gi sizing:

How (tight) should a BJJ gi fit?

Your BJJ Gi should fit snugly but comfortably on your body. It should not be too tight that it restricts your movement or breathing or too loose that it creates excess fabric or space.

If you want to compete in it, you must also ensure it follows the rules and regulations of BJJ competitions.

Is a Gi supposed to be baggy?

No, a gi is not supposed to be baggy. A baggy Gi can hinder your movement, affect your performance, and make you more susceptible to grips and chokes.

What Gi size do you recommend for tall/heavy people?

There is no definitive answer to what Gi size is best for tall or heavy people, as different brands and models may have different sizing systems and size charts.

For tall people, look for Gis that come in long sizes (e.g., A1L, A2L, A3L, etc.) with longer sleeves and pants.

Heavier set people should look into Gi brands that offer heavy sizes (e.g., A1H, A2H, A3H, etc.). They feature wider chest and waist measurements than regular sizes.

How long should BJJ Gi sleeves be?

BJJ Gi sleeves should be long enough to reach the wrist when the arms are extended along the body. They should not be too short that they expose the forearm, or too long that they cover the hand.

The length of the sleeves affects your mobility, flexibility, and grip strength on the mats.

How long should BJJ Gi pants be?

BJJ Gi pants should be long enough to cover at least half of the shin. The rule of thumb is that they should not exceed the foot but should not be shorter than the calf muscle either.

How much will a BJJ Gi shrink?

The average shrinkage of a BJJ gi is about 3-5%, but it can vary depending on several factors, such as:

Gi material: Most Gis are either 100% cotton or a cotton blend, and cotton tends to shrink so that every BJJ Gi can shrink significantly, even pre-shrunk ones.
The quality of the Gi: Some Gis are made with higher-quality materials and stitching, which makes them more resistant to shrinkage.
Washing method: Cold water and air drying tend to cause less shrinkage.

You should always check the manufacturer’s instructions on washing and drying your Gi properly to avoid excessive shrinkage.

What’s the Difference between Judo and Jiu Jitsu Gi?

Judo and Jiu Jitsu Gis are similar in appearance and function, but they differ in cut, fit, and material. These differences reflect the different styles and techniques of each martial art:

A Judo Gi tends to be looser and heavier than Jiu Jitsu Gis. This is because Judo involves more throwing and specific Gi gripping techniques, requiring more space and durability.
Judo Gis also has wider and longer sleeves to accommodate the grips, which are essential to perform certain throws.
BJJ Gis has a more colorful and distinct design than Judo Gis, which usually features a simpler, plain design.

What if I’m Between Sizes?

If you are between two sizes or your measurements vary from the Gi size chart, you may need to experiment and hope for the best when the Gi arrives.

A few things that come in handy are to go for a slightly larger size any time you are unsure how a Gi will fit. This will accommodate shrinkage rates and allow for some leeway. You can always shrink the Gi intentionally a bit if it comes to that.

If you prefer a tighter fit, opt for the smaller size.

Whenever you are unsure which size to choose, contact the brand’s customer service and ask for their advice.

Can you stretch out a BJJ Gi?

Yes, you can stretch out a Gi if it is too small or too tight for you, but it is more complicated than shrinking one. It is also not recommended, as it can damage the fabric and stitching of the Gi, affecting its durability and performance.

It is wiser to consider replacing the Gi with a larger-sized one than damaging it beyond repair.

What About BJJ Belt Sizes?

As a bonus, we will also provide you with some information on BJJ belt sizes.

The length and width of the belt are the main things to consider when buying one for yourself. It should be long enough to wrap around your waist twice and leave some extra length for tying a knot. The width of the belt should be 4-5 cm (1.5-2 inches) wide, according to IBJJF rules and regulations.

The size of a BJJ belt depends on the brand and model of the belt, just like BJJ Gis. Every brand has its own way of sizing, which, luckily, corresponds to how their Gi sizes.

The same letters and numbers system is used, and as long as you know your Gi size, you are all set belt-wise unless you enjoy nutrition too much and are “gifted” around the waist. In that case, go for a size or two) bigger belts).

Closing Arguments

No matter how well you research and learn how to read GI size charts, every time you’re ordering a new Gi brand you haven’t worn before, you’ll have to do the entire BJJ Gi sizing dance over again: take measurements, get feedback, try Gis on (if you can), calculate shrinkage rates, and check if the Gi fits IBJJF or UAEJJF competition regulations.

However, all those tasks become more straightforward when you know how to read a Gi size chart and take measurements yourself.

To wrap it up, it gets easier but never simpler.

Ogi

Ogi is a black belt that does Jiu Jitsu full time and is very passionate about anything grappling-related.

He is also the head coach of Enso Jiu Jitsu in Macedonia and an aspiring Globetrotter.

Ultimate BJJ Gi Size Chart and Fitting Guide: A Beginner’s Journey to Choosing the Perfect Gi Explained