One of the first questions parents ask when signing their child up for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is: do they need a gi? The answer depends on where they're training — but here's a breakdown to help you make the right call.
What Is a Gi?
A gi (also called a kimono) is the traditional BJJ uniform — a heavy-duty jacket and pants with a belt. Gi training uses the fabric itself as part of the game: grips on the collar, sleeves, and pants are all legal techniques. It's considered the foundation of BJJ and is required for most belt gradings.
What Is No-Gi?
No-Gi training uses rash guards and shorts instead of a uniform. Without fabric grips, the game shifts to body locks and underhooks, creating a faster, more scramble-heavy style. Many kids find No-Gi more immediately fun, while Gi builds deeper technical foundations.
What We Recommend for Beginners
Start with the Gi. Almost all academies teach Gi first, belts are earned in Gi, and the grip-based fundamentals transfer to No-Gi later. Our Jaguar Junior BJJ Gi ($69.99, available in white and blue) is our top pick for young beginners — it's lightweight, durable, and comes in child sizes from C2.
When to Add No-Gi
Once your child has a few months of Gi training under their belt (literally), adding a No-Gi class or two per week is a great way to develop a more complete game. You'll need a fitted Performance Pro Rash Guard ($39.99) and our MMA Shorts ($49.99) — both are excellent quality and sized for kids.
For Tournament Prep
If your child is entering a tournament, check the ruleset first. NAGA events offer both Gi and No-Gi divisions, so your child can compete in either or both. Most youth competitors enter both — it's double the fun and double the experience.
0 comments