If you’re new to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu then this is a question that may be on your mind. Whilst seasoned practitioners may see this as a trivial question, remember when you’re new it’s different and everything seems more alien.
In short, there’s a few different areas to this question and it depends entirely on the scenario and what is allowed, as well as what you’re comfortable with. Below we will go into detail as to what you should wear underneath your BJJ gi.
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What should I wear under my BJJ gi in competition?
This question depends entirely on your gender. For men, you must compete in most cases with nothing under your gi. This is tradition and also helps from a strategic point of view. Potentially, someone could hold onto your rashguard in desperation and it could stop you from passing. Whilst this is an extreme example, it would only hinder you in this instance.
For the most part though, most competitions will make you compete without a rashguard or t-shirt under the gi. In the big scheme of things this isn’t an issue and if anything it will make you cooler whilst competing.
For women, the answer is different. Whilst competing, women must wear a rashguard under the gi. The reason for this is so that their breasts aren’t showing. Whether you agree with these cultural norms or not, these are the rules when competing as a woman in BJJ. Alternatively, you can compete as a woman in a sports bra. Generally, t-shirts aren’t allowed unless the competition rules are relaxed.
What should I wear under my BJJ gi in the gym?
Once more, the answer to this differs depending on where you are. For example, big chain gyms such as Gracie Barra make it mandatory to wear a rashguard under the gi. In some cases, you may be allowed to wear a t-shirt too. However, in more relaxed gyms with less rules, you can also train without a t-shirt, as you would in a competition.
This is fine, but can be considered if you have a very hairy chest. If ever you’ve rolled with someone with a hairy chest with nothing on under the gi, it can be quite distracting and unhygienic. There’s nothing worse than being mounted with a load of sweaty chest hair in your eyes and mouth. Don’t be that guy.
However, in most gyms, a t-shirt will suffice.
What should I wear under my gi pants?
Firstly, this may sound obvious. But wear some underwear! The last thing you want to do is get your gi pants dragged downwards and for your genitals to be exposed. Most men will wear briefs under their gi pants as they fit easier compared to boxers. However, there’s no concrete rules on this and it’s up to you.
If you also suffer from skin allergies or eczema, then wearing spats under the gi pants will help. Spats are basically a skin-tight layer that is like a rashguard and will protect your skin from getting rubbed or chafed. Spats can be purchased for very cheap and some people also wear them in nogi.
Why wear a rashguard over a t-shirt?
Sometimes, people will opt for t-shirts and there’s nothing wrong with this. However, there’s a reason why rashguards are popular. As the name suggests, these guard your body against rashes. If you have sensitive skin, then a t-shirt may not be enough and you can even come out with hives if your condition is that bad. However, a rashguard should go some way to protect you against it.
As John Danaher once said, a rashguard perfectly keeps your temperature optimal. In the heat, it will cool you down, and in the cold it will warm you up. Plus, it’s incredibly comfortable. Not only this but wearing long-sleeved t-shirts can be very itchy and sweaty under a gi. Long-sleeved rashguards however, feel much nicer.
The good news is that these days, rashguards are inexpensive and can be purchased for under $10, which isn’t a bad deal when you think about it. If you’re really on a tight budget, non-BJJ rashguards are even cheaper and do the same job.
Another benefit of the rashguard is that they dry far quicker than a t-shirt. If you squeeze them after training, sweat will literally drip out instantly. This isn’t the same with cotton t-shirts which naturally hold water in the materials for much longer.
Conclusion
When training, it’s ultimately up to you (within reason and certain rules may dictate what you can and cannot wear). However, as mentioned above, most people will wear rashguards when permitted. This is due to comfort and convenience. Overall, the rashguard is the ideal companion to wear under your gi and should make training easier as a result. Nonetheless, for the most part it’s completely up to the individual.
