What Are the IBJJF Legal Competition Gi Requirements?

The BJJ gis come in various unique colors, and athletes can use them as they like during training sessions. Though there are some IBJJF gi requirements that must be met to make it a legal IBJJF competition gi.

The IBJJF gi regulations ensure all the athletes wear a BJJ uniform that is identical and consistent in terms of features and specifications. It also prevents any advantage or disadvantage for anyone based on the BJJ gi color, material, and/or make. Hence, ensures fair play between the competitors.

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Let's go over the details.

IBJJF Gi Requirements

Here are all the requirements of an IBJJF-approved gi:

1.1 Colors

The IBJJF has approved only white, black, and royal blue BJJ gi colors for athletes competing in IBJJF tournaments, including men, women, and kids. Here is more detail about the gi color requirements. The following are not allowed:

  • Gis with a different jacket and pants color
  • Gis with a different color collar
  • Painted gis are not permitted unless it represents an academy or sponsor logo, and paint does not mark the gi of the opponent
  • Paint on the regions other than the ones specified for patches

1.2 Materials

The IBJJF legal competition gis must be made from 100% cotton or any other material identical to cotton. The fabric must not be too thick, as it can prevent the opponent from gripping the gi. Kimonos with EVA or similar fabric collars are also allowed under the condition of following the  IBJJF rules book for size and rigidity.

The gis must be made from durable, woven, and unstretchy fabric, which is also thick to avoid transparency. The most commonly used fabrics in IBJJF legal gis are pearl weave, gold weave, single weave, and double weave.

1.3 Sizing & Measurement

Here are some important sizing requirements of an IBJJF legal gi:

  • Gi Jacket - Gi top must be long enough to reach the thighs
  • Sleeves - The sleeves should not be more than 2 am from the wrist when arms are extended straight
  • Gi Pants - Gi pants must not be more than 2 cm from the ankle (tibial malleolus)
  • Gi Lapel - Gi lapel thickness requirement is 1.3 cm
  • Gi Collar - Gi collar width requirement is 5 cm
  • Sleeves Opening - Sleeves full opening must not be more than 7 cm

1.4 Patches

The patches are only allowed in the authorized regions as per the official IBJJGF rules book. The patches must be of cotton material and stitched well.

1.5 Condition

The IBJJF competition-ready gis must be neat and clean, dry, and free from bad odors and tears. The gi has to be in very good condition; it's better to wash it well or just use a newish one. It must not be wet or dirty, or it may result in refusal of entry to the competition.

1.6 Other Requirements

Here are some additional requirements other than color, material, and fitment;

  • Wearing a shirt underneath the gi jacket is not allowed for men
  • It is compulsory for women to wear a compression shirt or a rashguard under the gi jacket, both short and long sleeves are eligible, with no specification or requirement of a certain color
  • Wearing pants under the gi pants is not allowed for men
  • Women are allowed to wear compression pants made from elastic fabric, but it must not be longer than the gi pants
  • Wearing undergarments is a must for all athletes
  • Gis must be clean and dry

Key Reason for an IBJJF Gi Requirements

The IBJJF gi regulations are intended to provide all the participants an equal opportunity by avoiding any sort of advantage or disadvantage a gi could offer.

  • Fair and Safe - The gi regulations make sure the gis are not too thin, nor too thick. The thin gis could tear apart very soon, and the thicker ones could be very difficult to grip for the opponent.
  • Standard Fit - The IBJJF gi rules specify measurements for sleeve length, lapel thickness, and pant length to ensure the gi sizing doesn't give an advantage to one.
  • Uniformity - The gi color rule ensures consistency and uniformity among BJJ fighters in IBJJF tournaments.
  • Compliance - Using an IBJJF legal gi is a must, not a choice. It could result in disqualification, losing the entry fee, and wasting time if a participant doesn't comply with the gi requirements.
  • Durability - The gi must be made of 100% cotton or a cotton-like material; it must be durable enough to withstand intense moves during competition.

Conclusion

Although BJJ athletes can use different types of gis in terms of color, material, fit, or GSM during their sessions, it is recommended to always prefer a gi made with IBJJF-approved material and fit. This will help them get used to the gis that will eventually be used in the competitions.

Though they may continue training in unique gi colors if it complies with all other requirements. The pearl weave gis are the most common type of gis which are used in competitions as well. It is  also suggested to go through the official IBJJF Rules to stay updated with the new regulations