What size BJJ gi do you need? A0, A1, and A2 explained

You do not choose the right BJJ gi size based only on A0, A1, or A2. First, use the size chart for the specific brand and combine your height, weight, and build. Then check that the sleeves and trousers are long enough, the jacket is not unnecessarily roomy, and you can squat, turn, pull, and move your arms fully without restriction.

That is important because BJJ gi sizes are not universally standardized. An A2 from one brand may fit noticeably differently from an A2 from another brand. Variants such as A1L, A2L, or A2H are also not cut in exactly the same way by every brand. Therefore, use the size code as a starting point, not a guarantee.

What do A0, A1, A2, and other BJJ gi sizes mean?

Many unisex or men's models use an A-size system. The letter A generally stands for adult, followed by a number indicating an ascending size. For example, you may see A0, A1, A2, A3, and A4. Some brands also offer in-between sizes or different build variations.

Size code	Common meaning	When is it relevant?
A0, A1, A2...	Ascending adult sizes	For an average height-to-weight ratio
L, for example A1L or A2L	Often a longer cut	For taller, relatively slim athletes or longer limbs
H, for example A2H	Often more room in the width	For a broader or heavier build at a similar height

These letters are a common convention, but not a global standard. Therefore, always compare the chart for the brand you are actually buying. Current size charts from different gi brands clearly show that the same size code can have different height and weight ranges.

How to choose your BJJ gi size step by step

1. Measure your height first and check your current weight

Most gi size charts combine height and weight. This works better than using either one separately. For example, two athletes who are 178 cm tall can have completely different builds, while two athletes who weigh 80 kg can differ significantly in height, shoulder width, and leg length.

Measure your height without shoes and use your current body weight. Especially if you intentionally lose or gain weight for a competition, an old size estimate is less reliable.

2. Use the size chart for the specific model

Do not automatically choose the same size you wore for a previous gi. Check the brand's official size chart, preferably for the specific model. Some models have a more compact cut, while others are roomier or longer. The fabric and the degree of preshrinking can also affect the final fit.

A general online size chart can help you understand roughly what A1 or A2 represents, but the product-specific size chart should guide your purchasing decision.

3. Consider your body shape, not just the box in the chart

Do you fit an A2 by height but an A3 by weight? Then your build matters. A taller, lighter athlete may fit better in a Long variant if the brand offers one. A more compact, broader athlete may benefit from an H or similar wider cut.

Do not try to force yourself into a standard size when the brand offers a variant that better matches your proportions. A well-fitting gi does not need to fit tightly like compression clothing; it should mainly remain functional during pulling, framing, guard work, and scrambles.

How should a BJJ gi fit?

A gi should provide enough room for full movement without an extreme amount of excess fabric. The jacket should close and move comfortably around the shoulders and back. The trousers should remain stable at the waist and provide enough room for a deep squat, knees toward the chest, and wide steps.

When trying it on, pay particular attention to four points:

• Sleeves: extend your arms forward and to the sides. The fabric should not restrict your shoulders, and the sleeves should not already be clearly too short before washing.
• Jacket length: the jacket should cover the torso sufficiently and not pull up excessively with every movement.
• Trouser length: check the length both standing and in a deep squat. Trousers that are already short when new may become problematic after any shrinkage.
• Freedom of movement: test squats, lunges, arm raises, and a grappling stance. A size chart cannot correct a poor movement fit.

Which BJJ gi size should you choose if you fall between two sizes?

If you fall between two sizes, first consider why. If you are mainly taller than the standard range, a Long variant is often more logical than simply going up a full size. If you are broader or heavier at the same height, a wider variant may be better.

If no such in-between option exists, the larger size is often more practical for training when the smaller size is already close to the minimum sleeve or trouser length. However, do not automatically buy a larger size with the idea that you can shrink the gi substantially later. Shrinkage varies by material, weave, manufacturer, and washing routine and is not a precise way to fix the wrong size.

Also check the return policy before washing. Trying on a new gi dry first is sensible, because washing can change the fabric and returns are often no longer possible.

Does a BJJ gi shrink after washing?

Many BJJ gis are made largely of cotton and may shrink somewhat further, even when the manufacturer describes the material as pre-shrunk. The amount varies by model. Warm water and a dryer can generally have more effect than cold washing and air drying.

Therefore, always follow the care label on your gi. Do not choose your size based on the assumption that a gi will shrink by exactly a certain number of centimeters. If you want to preserve the original fit as predictably as possible, a cautious washing routine according to the manufacturer's instructions is the safest approach.

BJJ gi sizing for competitions: consider more than comfort

For regular training, your gym mainly determines what is practical. For competitions, you must also comply with the organizer's uniform rules. Under the current IBJJF uniform requirements, the gi jacket must, among other things, reach the thigh, and the sleeves may end no more than 2 cm from the wrist when the arms are extended horizontally. The pants may end no more than 2 cm above the ankle bone. Collar and sleeve openings are also checked.

That means a gi that feels "just short enough" during training can be a problem during a competition inspection. Therefore, always check your organization's current official regulations before competing. The IBJJF uniform requirements, for example, are available directly online.

Would you like to better understand how Gi training differs from No-Gi, in addition to learning about the fit? Then read Gi vs No-Gi BJJ: what is the difference?. For competition context, our explanation of BJJ scoring is also helpful.

Do you need to wear anything under your BJJ gi?

That depends on the training rules, gender, and competition regulations. At the gym, wearing a rash guard under the jacket may be allowed or even preferred, while certain competition organizations have different requirements. For practical training guidance, read our guide on what BJJ fighters wear under their gi, and always check the rules of the specific event for competitions.

Common mistakes when choosing a BJJ gi

• Order the same A-size from every brand without checking. A2 is not a universal centimeter size.
• Choose based on body weight alone. Height and build also affect how well the sleeves, pants, and torso fit.
• Choosing a gi that is too small for a "competition fit". A slimmer fit is different from sleeves that are too short or restricted movement.
• Using shrinkage as a sizing strategy. Shrinkage is not precise enough to reliably correct a wrongly chosen size.
• Only try it on standing upright in front of a mirror. A gi must function during grappling movements, not just look good while standing.

Quick checklist for choosing the right BJJ gi size

• Your height and current weight fall within or close to the range for the specific model.
• The size also suits your build: standard, taller/slimmer, or wider if such variants exist.
• You can move your arms fully without severe tension around your back and shoulders.
• You can squat deeply and pull your knees up without the trousers restricting you.
• The sleeves and trousers are not already critically short before washing.
• You have taken the washing instructions and possible shrinkage into account.
• For competitions, the final fit must comply with the current uniform regulations.

In short: choose a BJJ gi size based on the specific brand's size chart, considering height, weight, and body type together. Do not treat A0, A1, or A2 as universal size codes. The best gi is one that fits closely enough, allows full grappling movement, and - if you compete - remains within the uniform requirements after washing.

Frequently asked questions about BJJ gi sizes

What BJJ gi size do I need at 170 cm?

That cannot be determined reliably from height alone. Also check your weight and build, then use the size chart for the specific brand. At around the same height, different athletes may, for example, fit a standard, Long, or wider version.

Is A2 the same at every BJJ brand?

No. A2 is a common size code, but the actual measurements and recommended height and weight ranges vary by brand and sometimes even by model.

What is the difference between A2 and A2L?

For brands that offer this size, A2L is generally intended for a taller or relatively slimmer build, with extra length in the sleeves and trousers compared with the standard A2. However, check the specific size chart, as the cut is not standardized.

Should a BJJ gi fit tightly?

No, not like a rash guard. A gi may fit relatively close to the body, but you must be able to move fully, and the jacket and trousers must comply with any competition-size requirements. Choosing one that is too small can restrict movement and make the sleeves or trousers too short.

Should I buy a larger gi because of shrinkage?

Not automatically. First check the shrinkage information and washing instructions for the specific model. Some gis are heavily pre-shrunk, while others change more. Choose your size based on the manufacturer's size chart and try on the gi before washing it for the first time.