BJJ Gi Weaves: Everything You Need to Know

When purchasing Brazilian jiu-jitsu, you should select a good weave fabric because a gi can be made from various weaves. So you’re probably wondering, What does a BJJ gi weave mean? How many different kinds are there?

The weave refers to the cotton fabric used to make a BJJ GI jacket. There are many jiu-jitsu gi weaves, such as pearl, gold, single, and double weave.

This article will clarify the distinctions between the different types of Gi Weaves. It explains which one to choose based on your needs and the advantages and disadvantages of each.

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BJJ Gi Weaves Explained

There are many types of Brazilian jiu-jitsu gi weaves out there. Here are four of the most used weaves:

Source: Michael Phan

Single Weave

Single weave cotton is used on most entry-level Gis. In addition, it is less expensive and shrinks less than other weave fabrics.

As a jiu-jitsu beginner, this weave style is an excellent way to get started without investing too much money.

A single weave is a fantastic material that is often overlooked. The material is lightweight and highly comfortable to wear during workouts. Furthermore, this gi weave may be preferable if you live in a warm climate.

However, some argue that single weaves are less durable than other materials. However, I still have a few single weave Gis around from when I first started jiu-jitsu a few years ago.

Examples of single weave BJJ Gi

Elite Sports BJJ Gi. (Check It Out On Amazon)
Sanabul Essentials V.2 Ultra Light Gi. (Check It Out On Amazon)

Pearl Weave

The pearl weave is the most common; it accounts for nearly 75% of the current Brazilian jiu-jitsu gis market.

This is because it is less expensive than gold weave, comes in various weights, hardly shrinks, and is highly durable.

Although the quality of a pearl weave varies greatly depending on its tightness and how it is manufactured.

A good pearl weave will have the characteristics above and be soft and supple. On the other side, Poorly made pearl weave GIs are stiff, rough, and challenging to train in.

Pearl weave has the disadvantage of rarely shrinking. So, if you need to shrink the Gi and it only needs to come down a little, you should be fine.

Examples of pearl weave Jiu Jitsu Gi

Tatami Fightwear Estilo: 550gsm pearl weave jacket and 12 oz. canvas pants. (Check It Out On Forza Sports Store)
Tatami Nova Absolute Gi: 350GSM Pearl Weave Jacket and 10 oz. cotton tapered pants. (Check It Out On Forza Sports Store)
Gold BJJ Foundation Gi: 450gsm pearl weave and 8oz ripstop pants. (Check It Out On Amazon)
Hayabusa Lightweight Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi: 420-gsm pearl-weave cotton and 8oz ripstop cotton-polyester pants. (Check It Out On Amazon)
Venum Contender Evo BJJ Gi: 350 gsm pearl weave jacket and 230 gsm ripstop pants. (Check It Out On Amazon)

Double Weave

A double weave BJJ Gi is more robust and durable than a single weave. As a result, it is more expensive but provides greater comfort and quality.

Otherwise, if you’re obsessed with jiu-jitsu, this double weave is your best long-term and most efficient option.

Gold Weave

This jiu-jitsu Gi weave falls somewhere between the single and double weave. As a result, it strives to improve the gi’s durability and lightweight by combining the benefits of both weaves in a single gear. His premium-grade weave, on the other hand, maybe more expensive.

Single Vs Double Weave Gi: Which one to Choose?

A single weave is simply a single layer of cotton that is lightweight, comfortable, and easy to hold. So, it is most suitable for class training and beginner practitioners.

However, a double weave gi comprises two layers of cotton sewn together, making it thicker and slightly more challenging to grip. It is more expensive than the single weave and most preferable for competition. Otherwise, the double weave gi may last longer if properly cared for.