Nation Athletic is a Brazilian jiu jitsu apparel brand that has some of the best designed rash guards out there. Personally, I’m a big fan of their designs and fit – so let’s take a deep dive into whether or not they are worth the price.
Key Takeaway: Nation Athletic rash guards are some of the best rash guards around. Even though they come at a more premium price, their fit, designs, and comfort are worth it for the avid bjj player.
In this post we’ll take a look at their rash guard features plus provide an overall brand review.
Main Takeaway
| + Pros / – Cons |
|---|
| + Unique designs |
| + Breathable yet thicker material |
| + Reinforced flatlock stitching |
| +Rubber waistband liner |
| – Runs a bit tighter around the neck |
| – Seams may become loose around waistband liner |
| – Not IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation) legal |
My personal experience: Nation Athletic rash guards are in my frequent no gi rotation. They just are top notch quality and deserve to be up there with the best like Phalanx, Hayabusa, Venum, and Origin. So if you like their designs I, personally, stand by their fit and durability.
Why You May Not Like Nation Athletic Rash Guards
Some of the main reasons why you might not want to buy a rash guard from Nation Athletic are:
- If you don’t like their designs or logos
- If you need an IBJJF legal rash guard
- If you find them to be too expensive
- If you prefer a looser rash guard (we then recommend checking out Sanabul)
How Do They Compare with Other Expensive Rash Guards?
Honestly, most rash guards in a similar price range are all pretty comparable in terms of quality so ultimately, it may come down to whether or you prefer their design and fit.
I feel like Nation Athletic rash guards are definitely similar to the more expensive brands like Phalanx, Venum, and Future Kimonos. I also think they are of higher quality than more affordable brands like Sanabul or Elite.
Vs Sanabul
What does Sanabul have that Nation Athletic Does Not:
- More affordable rash guards
- Simpler designs
- Thinner material
Overall Takeaway: You may want to go with Sanabul if you just want a simple and more affordable rash guard. At less than half the price of Nation rash guards, Sanabul is a decent buy but doesn’t come with the more premium fit and features (like rubber waistband liner)
Vs Future Kimonos
What does Future Kimonos have that Nation Athletic Does Not:
- Fully customizable rash guards
Overall Takeaway: Honestly, Future Kimonos rash guards feel pretty thin and actually feel thinner and less durable than Nation Athletic rash guards. While a lot of the big names in bjj wear Future Kimonos gear, ultimately, it will come down to whether or not you like the Future Kimonos designs over XMartial.
Vs Phalanx
What does Phalanx have that Nation Athletic Does Not:
- Thinner rash guard material
- Excellent fit
Overall Takeaway: Phalanx rash guards are a pretty good standard for rash guards. If you prefer a thinner rash guard, Phalanx may be your better option, but overall both of these brands are very comparable.
Is Nation Athletics a Good Brand?
Yes, Nation Athletics is a good brand. I own several of their rash guards and have never had a problem with durability or fit (they fit true to size).
Plus my wife ordered me a rash guard in the wrong size and Nation had excellent support and exchanged it without any issues.
Over the last six years, I’ve trained in many different rash guards so if you prefer a thicker, more durable rash guard with some seriously unique designs than you should consider Nation Athletic.
Zack is an avid jiu jitsu practitioner and martial arts nerd. He currently holds a brown belt in BJJ. When not on the mats or in the gym, he can be found going for walks with his wife, attempting (and often failing) to train his dog, and frequently obsessing over a specific hobby only to forget about it a week later.
