Beginner BJJ Gear Guide: What You Need to Start Training Jiu-Jitsu
If you’ve taken a few classes—or you’re thinking about starting—one thing becomes clear fast:
There is a lot of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gear out there.
It can feel overwhelming.
At Real American Grappling, we keep it simple. You don’t need everything on day one—but you do need the right essentials if you want to train safely, comfortably, and consistently.
This guide breaks down exactly what you need to get started with BJJ.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi (Kimono)
If you plan to train traditional Jiu-Jitsu, a Gi is required.
A standard BJJ Gi includes:
- Gi jacket
- Gi pants
- Belt
As a beginner, start with a basic, affordable Gi—typically a single weave or pearl weave. You don’t need anything expensive early on.
As you gain experience, you can upgrade. But the truth is, many people still train in their first Gi years later.
Important: Wash your Gi after every single training session. No exceptions.
Rash Guard (No-Gi & Under Gi)
A rash guard is a tight, athletic shirt made from moisture-wicking material.
You’ll use it for:
- No-Gi training
- Under your Gi (optional but recommended)
Why it matters:
- Prevents mat burn and skin irritation
- Keeps sweat from soaking into cotton
- More durable than T-shirts
Cotton shirts break down fast, hold bacteria, and become uncomfortable during training. Rash guards are built for the demands of grappling.
Pro tip: Get at least 2–3 if you train regularly.
Grappling Shorts (For No-Gi Training)
If you’re training No-Gi, proper shorts are a must.
BJJ shorts are:
- Pocket-free (prevents finger injuries)
- Durable and lightweight
- Designed to stay secure during movement
Regular gym shorts or basketball shorts might work for your first few classes—but they are not built for grappling.
If you plan to stick with No-Gi, invest in proper shorts early.
Mouthpiece (Protect Your Teeth)
If you plan to spar (roll), you should wear a mouthpiece.
Two main options:
Boil-and-Bite
- Affordable
- Mold it at home
- Works well for most beginners
Custom Mouthpiece
- Made by a professional
- More expensive
- Best fit and comfort
Even in grappling, accidental contact happens. A mouthpiece protects your teeth—and your gums.
Sandals / Flip Flops (Hygiene Essential)
This one gets overlooked—but it shouldn’t.
You do not wear shoes on the mat.
But you should never walk barefoot off the mat.
You need sandals or flip flops for:
- Bathroom trips
- Water breaks
- Moving around the gym
This helps prevent bacteria and keeps the training environment clean.
Every BJJ gym bag should have a pair ready to go.
Beginner BJJ Gear Checklist
If you’re just getting started, here’s what you actually need:
- 1 Gi
- 1–3 Rash Guards
- 1 Pair of Grappling Shorts
- Mouthpiece
- Sandals / Flip Flops
You can add more gear over time—but this will cover everything you need to train properly from day one.
Train the Right Way From Day One
Having the right gear makes a difference.
It helps you:
- Train safely
- Stay comfortable
- Build good habits early
At Real American Grappling, we help beginners get started the right way—without overcomplicating things.
Start Training at Real American Grappling
If you’re in the Lake Wylie, Fort Mill, or Charlotte area and thinking about starting Jiu-Jitsu, now is the time.
You don’t need experience. You just need to show up.
👉 Sign up for a free class and we’ll help you get started.
