Complete BJJ Equipment List for Beginners
Everything you need to start training BJJ — what to buy, what to skip, and in what order to invest your gear budget.
Essential Gear to Start
You can start BJJ with minimal investment: a gi (or shorts and rash guard for no-gi), and a mouthguard. Ear guards are optional but recommended for those who train regularly and want to prevent cauliflower ear. Everything else — grappling shorts, spats, competition gear — can wait until you are sure you will continue training.
Gis vs No-Gi: What to Buy First
If your academy primarily trains gi, buy a gi first. If no-gi focused, invest in rash guards and grappling shorts. Many academies train both — check what your classmates typically wear. A single gi is sufficient to start; buy a second once you are training regularly enough that the first gi cannot dry between sessions.
Gear Progression as You Advance
As your training becomes more serious, your gear investment grows appropriately. Competitors need IBJJF-legal gis in white, blue, or black. Regular no-gi training justifies multiple rash guards. High-level practitioners often invest in specialized equipment for conditioning, injury prevention, and recovery. Start minimal; add gear only when you have identified specific needs.
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