Men's Sizes: A0 to A6
Men's BJJ gis use the "A" classification (for Adult). Here is the standard reference chart, keeping in mind that each brand may vary by ±2 cm on these measurements:
| Size | Height (cm) | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| A0 | 155 – 163 | 55 – 65 |
| A1 | 163 – 170 | 65 – 75 |
| A2 | 170 – 178 | 75 – 85 |
| A2L | 170 – 178 | 85 – 95 (longer legs) |
| A3 | 178 – 185 | 85 – 95 |
| A3L | 178 – 185 | 95 – 105 (longer legs) |
| A4 | 185 – 193 | 100 – 115 |
| A5 | 185 – 193 | 115 – 130 |
| A6 | 185 – 200 | 130+ |
Women's Sizes: F0 to F5
Women's sizes use the "F" classification. The cuts are more fitted at the shoulders and hips, with a narrower jacket.
| Size | Height (cm) | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| F0 | 150 – 158 | 45 – 55 |
| F1 | 158 – 165 | 55 – 65 |
| F2 | 163 – 170 | 62 – 72 |
| F3 | 168 – 175 | 70 – 82 |
| F4 | 173 – 180 | 80 – 92 |
| F5 | 178 – 185 | 90+ |
How to Take Your Measurements Correctly
Height alone is not enough. Here are the three measurements you should take to avoid sizing mistakes:
Height: stand barefoot with your back against a wall and measure from the floor to the top of your head. Chest circumference: measure under your armpits around the widest part of your torso. Hip circumference: measure the widest part of your hips to check the pants fit.
If you fall between two sizes — for example, 177 cm at 90 kg — go with the larger size. A gi that is too small cannot be adjusted; a slightly oversized gi can be tailored through washing or alterations.
Shrinkage After Washing: Pre-Shrunk vs Non-Pre-Shrunk
This is the detail most beginners overlook. A non-pre-shrunk cotton gi can shrink by 5 to 10% after its first wash at 40°C (104°F), and up to 15% at 60°C (140°F). A pre-shrunk gi will shrink less than 3% after washing.
Practical rule: if you are buying a non-pre-shrunk gi, go up half a size. If you are buying pre-shrunk, take your exact size. Always wash in cold water (30°C / 86°F) and air dry to preserve the shape. Using a tumble dryer accelerates shrinkage and weakens the stitching.
IBJJF Requirements: What Your Gi Must Meet
If you plan to compete at IBJJF events, your gi must meet strict criteria that are checked during the inspection before every tournament:
Sleeve length: no more than 5 cm from the wrist when the arm is extended horizontally. Pants length: no more than 5 cm from the ankle. Lapel thickness: no more than 1.3 cm thick along its entire length. Color: white, royal blue, or black only — no camouflage or complex patterns. Collar size: the collar must not be grippable more than 7 cm from the neck.
IBJJF-certified brands (Tatami, Fuji, Scramble, Kingz, Hyperfly) guarantee the compliance of their gis. Always check for the IBJJF certification logo on the inner label.
Brand-Specific Sizing Notes
Tatami Fightwear (UK): sizes generally true to standard. Slightly wider European cut at the shoulders. Expect 3–5% shrinkage even on pre-shrunk models. Fuji Sports (USA): sizes run generous — size down for slim builds. Entry price: $80–100. Scramble (UK): slim cuts, sizes fitted for athletic body types. Kingz (Portugal/USA): premium quality, guaranteed IBJJF compliance. Price: $150–220. Hyperfly (USA): ultra-lightweight fabrics, recommended for competitors who travel frequently. Origin (USA): American-made, sizes run large — go one size down for European body types.
Price Ranges by Practice Level
An entry-level gi ($50–80) is fine for your first few months of training, but durability is limited. Mid-range models ($100–150) offer a good balance of durability and weight and hold up to several weekly washes. Premium gis ($160–300) target competitors: technical fabrics, certified IBJJF compliance, and reinforced stitching at the knees and armpits. Investing in a quality gi once you reach blue belt is a smart long-term financial decision.
Once your gi fits right and your registration is locked in, the next step is finding the right tournaments. BJJ Championships brings together every BJJ competition worldwide in one place: IBJJF, AJP, CFJJB, NAGA, Newaza, Grappling Industries, and ADCC. Browse the full calendar, filter by federation and country, and register directly from the platform.