To the untrained eye, a uniform for any martial art sport such as Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, or Jiu Jitsu may all look the same, or be variations on the same theme. But there are actually differences between the different uniforms, and it is recommended that if you are going to take up Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as a serious pastime or sport, that you buy a correctly fitting Gi.

If you have a youngster who is full of energy and excitement to take up the sport, you may, if you have one at hand, use a uniform that is actually intended for Judo or Taekwondo. Once convinced that their dedication is not a passing phase, the correct Gi is essential.

The difference between for example a karate uniform and a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi, is that the arms and legs are a lot tighter, as in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, a lot of floor grappling techniques are used, and this could be dangerous, if a wide fitting karate or Judo uniform is worn.

BJJ Gis come in a great variety of colors, although when we think of martial arts, we generally think of a white uniform, in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, blue is also both standard, accepted, and very common. There are also huge ranges of other colors available, but officially recognized Gis are either blue or white.

BJJ Gis has to be made of a strong material, as when using floor grappling techniques and locks, others materials could rip easily. Gis are fabricated both in single and double weave, the double weave being more durable, but obviously heavier, causing increased sweating. If you live in a hot climate, a single weave Gi is the obvious choice, even though it may not last a long. A double weave would be both to hot, as well as impeding flexibility.

If you attend a martial arts school, there may well be in place a standard issue Gi, if not they will recommend the best stockiest to you. Gis have sizes for small children to large adults. Giving your measurements to a stockiest will enable them to supply you with the correct fitting Gi. The amount you spend on your Gi is again, entirely up to you. If it is for a child, a cheaper Gi would be recommended, as the child will inevitably grow. For an adult, if you professionally train or fight Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, it is worth while spending that little extra to get a top quality and durable Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi.

The basic rules of thumb are to buy your BJJ Gi in either blue or white, as these are the two officially accepted colors, and to purchase from a stockiest, giving your measurements, or taking advice from your martial arts school. Then choose your weave, and finally, once purchased, make sure you care for your Gi properly, washing it after each training session, in cold or luke warm water, and hanging it to dry immediately, making it clean and reading for your next session.