BJJ Glossary
Complete guide to terms, fabrics, sizing, and body types for Jiu-Jitsu gear.
Weave Types
Pearl Weave
The most popular fabric for competition gis. Lightweight, durable, and with excellent grip retention. Used by brands like Shoyoroll, Koral, and Vulkan.
View products with Pearl Weave →Gold Weave
A hybrid fabric combining the lightness of single weave with the durability of double weave. Great for both training and competition.
View products with Gold Weave →Single Weave
The lightest and most affordable fabric. Ideal for hot climates and beginners. Less durable than pearl or gold weave.
View products with Single Weave →Double Weave
The heaviest and most durable fabric. Hard to grip but warmer. Common in heavy-duty training gis.
View products with Double Weave →Ripstop
A fabric with a grid pattern that resists tearing. Widely used in gi pants for its combination of lightness and strength.
View products with Ripstop →Honeycomb
A textured fabric with a hexagonal pattern. Offers good ventilation and unique grip. Less common but popular in premium gis.
View products with Honeycomb →Sizing Guide
Brazilian gi sizing system (men's and women's):
| Size | Height Range | Weight Range |
|---|---|---|
| A0 | 155-163cm | 50-60kg |
| A1 | 163-170cm | 60-70kg |
| A2 | 170-178cm | 70-82kg |
| A3 | 178-185cm | 82-95kg |
| A4 | 185-193cm | 95-110kg |
| A5 | 193-198cm | 110-120kg |
| A6 | 198cm+ | 120kg+ |
| F1 | 155-160cm | 45-55kg |
| F2 | 160-167cm | 55-65kg |
| F3 | 167-173cm | 65-75kg |
| F4 | 173-178cm | 75-85kg |
| F5 | 178-183cm | 85-95kg |
| F6 | 183cm+ | 95kg+ |
Each brand has variations — use the Fit Finder for precision based on real athlete data. Fit Finder →
Shrinkage Levels
None — Gi maintains original measurements after washing.
Low — 1-3% shrinkage. Barely noticeable after first wash.
Medium — 3-5% shrinkage. Noticeable after first washes. Consider sizing up.
High — Over 5% shrinkage. Common in non-pre-shrunk gis. Wash cold and air dry.
Tips: wash with cold water, air dry. Avoid the dryer to minimize shrinkage.
Body Types
Lean
Lean and elongated body. Usually looks for slim-cut gis. May need long sizes (e.g., A2L).
Athletic
Athletic and proportional body. Usually fits well in standard sizes from most brands.
Average
Average proportions. Good compatibility with most standard sizes.
Stocky
Broader and compact body. May need larger sizes or more generous cuts in shoulders and chest.
Heavyset
Heavier and more robust body. Pay attention to shoulder fit and sleeve length. Consider special sizes.