Wash your gi in cold water with a mild detergent and never use a dryer. High heat causes shrinkage and weakens stitches over time.

Hang-dry after every session, and avoid fabric softeners — they make the fabric slippery and harder to grip.

With proper care, a quality gi should last through years of training.

A gi should feel snug but never restrict movement.

Sleeves should reach your wrist bone, pants should reach the ankle, and you should be able to raise your arms, squat, and hip escape without pulling or pinching.

If you’re between sizes, choose the bigger one — you can always shrink slightly with a wash.

Most BJJ gis use cotton weaves, and the most popular is pearl weave.

Pearl weave gives the best balance of:

• lightweight feel
  
• breathability
  
• Durability
  
• competition approval
  

It’s strong enough for everyday training and won’t feel like a heavy blanket during rolls.

A gi that holds up to training usually costs $80–$150, depending on fabric, weight, and brand.

Ultra-cheap gis can shrink, tear, or feel like cardboard.

You don’t need the most expensive gi, just one that’s comfortable, durable, and properly reinforced.

Start with how often you train:

• 2–3x per week: One durable gi is fine.
  
• 4–6x per week: Get two gis so you’re always dry and ready.

If you want less heat, easier movement, and fast drying, pick a lightweight pearl weave.

If you like a heavier, traditional feel, go heavier weave, but expect more heat and weight.

When shopping for a gi, check for durable weave (pearl- or gold-weave), reinforced stitching at stress points (knees, armpits, hips), and a fit that suits your build. A good gi balances strength, comfort, and mobility — light enough to move freely, but tough enough for daily training. Also make sure it meets competition-legal specs (weight, weave type, cotton jacket/pants) if you plan to compete.

You should consider size and shrinkage: pick a size that fits well now, but know whether the gi is pre-shrunk or will shrink after washing — a too-tight gi will hamper movement and comfort.

Don’t forget practical details: pants quality (ripstop or reinforced knees), collar stiffness, and how it feels on the mat — because that affects grip, comfort, and longevity.

Finally, weigh value vs brand hype: a mid-tier gi with honest specs and solid build may outperform an overpriced “prestige” gi. With Gee BJJ, you get light, clean, performance-focused gis with no fluff — built for fighters, not fashion shows.