Skip to content
BJJ GI Size Guide – How to choose the correct Size BJJ GI.
Probably the most common questions we get asked are to do with GI sizing. The GI size chart can sometimes be a little confusing with both height and weight mentioned and with some people falling between various sizes. Below we will show you how to choose the right size no matter what your build is.
BJJ GI Size System
BJJ GI Sizes are worked out a little differently when compared to other martial arts GIs. BJJ GIs are usually labelled with either an "A" for adult males, "F" for adult females or "M" for both male and female children between the ages of 5–14 years old, followed by a number usually between 0 and 4 (000–4 for kids GIs).
It's worth pointing out that you will get some crossover with all GI sizes. Some teenagers could fit a lower end "A" size like an A0 or A1, and a small adult female could fit a bigger "M" size. Other than the slight difference in cut between a men's and ladies Gi, the men's A0 is similar in size to a ladies F2, a men's A1 is similar to a ladies F3 and a men's A2 is similar in size to a ladies F4.
Although the typical GI sizes range between A1–A4 for men's GIs, F1–F4 for the ladies GIs and M0–M4 for the kid's GIs, there are some companies (us included) that have additional sizes including A0, A5, A6, "L" sizes for men and M000 and M00 for the kids.
L or Long Sizes
Over the last few years, more and more companies have added "L" sizes to their adult GI "A" sizes. So, for example, an A2L size would have the weight dimensions of an A2 (up to 82kg) and the height of an A3 (up to 6ft 3). This would be ideal for someone who is too tall for an A2 and too slim for an A3. Our range of BJJ Gis come in a range of L sizes from A1L to A3L so we've got you covered.
How a typical BJJ GI size chart looks
| Size | Height Range | Weight Range |
| A0 | 5ft 4" – 5ft 7" | 60 – 65kg |
| A1 | 5ft 7" – 5ft 9" | 65 – 72kg |
| A1L | 5ft 11" – 6ft | 65 – 72kg |
| A2 | 5ft 8" – 6ft | 72 – 82kg |
| A2L | 5ft 11" – 6ft 2" | 72 – 82kg |
| A3 | 6ft 1" – 6ft 3" | 82 – 95kg |
| A3L | 6ft 3" – 6ft 4" | 82 – 95kg |
| A4 | 6ft 1" – 6ft 4" | 95 – 120kg |
Using a GI Size Chart
You might notice that with the size chart some of the weights and heights cross over between sizes. For example, someone who is 5ft 9" but 72kg would fall between an A1 and A2. In most cases, you are better off going with a size that will fit you better in the body even if it means the sleeves and trousers are slightly too short. This is because it will look and feel better on you when you are rolling.
Another thing to consider is the material or weave that the GI is made from. For more information on GI weaves see our article BJJ GI Weaves Explained.
Sizing for Tall Skinny Guys
Tall skinny guys seem to find it hard when trying to get a decent fit from a GI. If you can get an "L" size, problem solved. Our range of BJJ Gis come in A1L through A3L so we've got you covered.
Sizing for Big Guys
Like tall skinny guys, big guys tend to have the opposite problem — they can normally get a GI to fit in the body but the sleeves and trousers are normally too long. They should go for a size that fits well in the body and then shrink the GI so that it brings down the extra length. For more information on the best way to shrink to fit, check out our guide on Caring for your BJJ GI.
Sizing for an IBJJF Competition Legal GI
Getting a GI to pass the IBJJF GI check can be a minefield. The main things to consider are the sleeve and trouser lengths, cuff widths and the jacket skirt length. When sizing for an IBJJF legal GI they are:
- GI skirt requirements: Must sit lower than the gluteus muscles.
- Sleeve lengths: Less than 5cm or 2 inches from the wrist bone.
- Sleeve cuff width: 7cm or 2.75 inches or more.
- Trouser lengths: Less than 5cm or 2 inches from the ankle bone.
- Trouser cuff widths: 7cm or 2.75 inches or more.
If you are in any doubt about the size, you can contact us on the following email, and we will be happy to help you choose the correct size: sales@valorfightwear.com.