BJJ Gi Size Guide: Australian Fit & IBJJF Standards Explained

Why sizing matters: compliance, comfort & performance

 

Getting the right BJJ gi size is crucial—not just for mobility and comfort, but also to meet IBJJF competition requirements. As competitors in Australia aim for national events, ensuring your gi follows IBJJF rules is essential  .

 

💡 Step 1: Understand IBJJF measurement rules

According to the IBJJF rules:

  • Gi jacket must extend to the thigh, and sleeves must come within 2 cm of the wrist when arms are extended  .

  • Pants must finish no more than 2 cm above the ankle bone (tibial malleolus)  .

  • The lapel thickness must be <= 1.3 cm; collar width must be 5 cm; and the sleeve opening must allow at least 7 cm gap from wrist to sleeve edge  .

  • Only white, blue or black gis are allowed—mixing colours (e.g. jacket vs pants) is not permitted  .

 

📏 Step 2: Australian body types & brand sizing (A‑series fitting)

 

Most Australian practitioners use standard adult unisex sizes (A0–A5), tailored to height and weight. Some brands offer ‘L’ (Long) or ‘H’ (Heavy) variations to better suit tall or sturdy builds  .

Typical size correspondence:

  • A0: ~150–160 cm, ~50–60 kg

  • A1: ~160–170 cm, ~60–70 kg

  • A2: ~170–180 cm, ~70–85 kg

  • A3: ~180–190 cm, ~85–95 kg

  • A4/A5: above ~190 cm / 95 kg+

    (Note: exact ranges vary by model—always consult GB Wear’s size chart.)

 

🧷 Step 3: Measure yourself correctly

 

When assessing your size:

  1. Stand upright and measure:

    • Chest circumference

    • Sleeve length (neck to wrist)

    • Waist and pant length (to ankle) 

     

  2. Compare your measurements + height/weight against GB Wear’s sizing chart.

  3. Allow for shrinkage—especially in non-preshrunk gis, which may shrink 2–4% post-wash .

 

👕 Step 4: Fit guidelines – training vs competition

 

  • Training fit: slightly relaxed for comfort and mobility.

  • Competition fit: should conform tightly to IBJJF limits while still allowing movement.

 

A gi that is too loose may be disallowed in competition inspections; too tight can restrict technique execution  .

 

🗺️ Step 5: Australian-specific considerations

 

  • Australian sizing mirrors global A-series standards, but body proportions can vary—GB Wear provides local Australian-fit models designed to suit typical height/weight combinations found in Australia.

  • Look for “Australian fit” labels, which often feature adjusted sleeve or pant lengths to reduce excess fabric around wrists and ankles.

 

 

✅ Quick size-check checklist

 

Fit–Try Test

IBJJF Rule Checklist

Sleeves: ≤ 2 cm from wrist when arm extended

Jacket covers thighs

Pants: ≤ 2 cm above ankle bone

Lapel width & thickness within limits

Sleeve opening clearance ≥ 7 cm from wrist

Collar width 5 cm

Feel snug but not restrictive

Correct uniform colour & patch placement

 

 

✳️ Step 6: Post-purchase care & maintenance

 

  • Wash gi in cold water, line dry—avoid hot dryers to minimize shrinkage and maintain compliance  .

  • Inspect regularly for wear and tear—no patches, tears or stains allowed in competition gi  .

 

 

🏆 Why choose GB Wear Australia?

 

As a trusted brand within the Australian BJJ community, GB Wear offers:

  • Australian-fit sizing designed for local body types

  • Pre-shrunk or shrink-manageable fabric options

  • IBJJF‑compliant gis in approved colours

  • Clear, concise size charts and customer support to help you get the right fit first time

 

🌟 Wrap-Up

 

Choosing the right gi size isn’t just about comfort—it’s about meeting competition standards and performing your best on the mat. By pairing GB Wear Australia’s local sizing, clear measurement guidance, and IBJJF-compliant design, you’re set up for success—whether training casually or competing nationally.

 


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