How to Choose the Best BJJ Rash Guard For You
Looking for the best bjj rashguard?
So you’ve just started Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and are looking to buy your first bjj rashguard or maybe you’ve been training bjj for a while and your current bjj rashguard has an eternal funk to it (I know that feel bro).
In this post, I wanted to include my top recommended rash guards and rash guard brands as well as reviews on as many popular rash guards as possible.
I’ve been training bjj for over five years and between me and my two brothers (who also train bjj) we probably own over 3 dozen jiu jitsu rashguards.
Some of which I wear frequently and others sit in my bottom draw tucked underneath itchy holiday sweaters that distant relatives continue to buy me.
So let me try to be your guide….
Finding the Best BJJ Rash Guard For You – FlowChart
Why you can trust my recommendations
Quick Note (as of August 2023) – In order to stay up to date I went through and updated some of my recommendations and pros/cons of each…keep rolling yall! – Zack
Not only do I only train no gi, but I have found some of my favorite fitting rashguards and brands that I have come to trust over the years.
I’ve also included images of me wearing these exact rashguards whenever possible.
My wife knows me so well that every year she buys me a new rashguard from my favorite bjj rashguard brands (which I will get to further down in this post).
Over the course of a long weekend and 22+ hours of researching, I have come up with this list by ranking the several dozen rashguards that I own (including ones I “borrowed” from my brothers), scouring reviews on Reddit, Amazon, reatailer sites, and bjj/mma warehouse sites like BJJHQ as well as surveying the opinions from my 5 main training partners at my bjj gym on their favorite bjj rashguards and brands.
Best BJJ Rash Guard – At a Glance
Best All Around BJJ Rash Guards: Future Kimonos (use code HEAVYONE15 for 15% off) Xmartial, Rolljunkie (use code HEAVYBJJ15 for 15% off)
Best Affordable Rash Guards: Sanabul, Elite Sports
Best Ranked Rash Guards: Gold BJJ, Fuji
Best Higher End Rash Guards: Nation Athletics, Future Kimonos, Phalanx
Best Standout Designs: Xmartial, Raven Fightwear
Best All Around BJJ Rash Guards:
Future Kimonons
If you’re looking for a customizable rashguard – this one is top of the line. It lets you add in your name, instragram, flag, city, and own pattern to the back.
There’s a reason why many top athletes frequently wear their gear. For me, Future Kimonos stands above other more affordable gear like those from Sanabul and Elite in terms of fit and durability.
Use our code HEAVYONE15 for 15% off
The only con is that it comes at a higher price point. So if you’re wanting to upgrade from more affordable rash guards into a matching or customizable set Future should be your first stop
| Pros: | Cons: |
| top of the line designes | longer shipping times |
| extremely customizable | a bit pricier |
| offers matching sets | |
| breathable |
Rolljunkie
Rolljunkie has been in the bjj gear and apparel game since 2012 when it was started by two brothers in New Jersey.
(use code HEAVYBJJ15 for 15% off)
If you prefer a looser and breathable rash guard with longer sleeves, this is my go to recommendation. They offer minimal, clean designs with high quality graphics. I would rank their rash guards as a similar feel to those from Sanabul (both breathable with minimal designs) but at a much higher quality.
If you want to take a step up from lower end, less durable rash guards check out their site for some gear with solid value at a midrange price point.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| minimal and slick designs | some rash guards are not ibjjf legal |
| light/loose/breathable fit | |
| has several matching sets | |
| longer sleeves | |
| frequently has sales on their site |
XMartial
I’m pretty impressed with Xmartial. I’ve seen them around before but haven’t trained in any of their gear until recently.
The difference you get when buying rash guard from them (when compared to other rash guards like those from Sanabul or Elite) is:
- higher quality material
- excellent fit
- standout designs
Now when compared to higher end rash guards, I felt that this one from xmartial (while thicker material) just felt more breathable. Don’t get me wrong I like a tight rash guard as much as the next person, but when it is too tight around my neck and squeezing too tight under my armpits I quickly begin to feel like Chris Farely.
One thing I would note is that to be sure to check their sizing guide on their site before purchasing. I switch between L and XL depending on manufacture but XL fit perfect from them.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| flashy designs | not ibjjf legal |
| non slip waist band | may have to size up |
| quality material and stitching | |
| lightweight |
Fuji – Lightweight and Breathable Rash Guard
This bjj rashguard from fuji has quickly become my favorite to train it simply becuase its so thin and breathable.
While some higher end rashguards may see worth the money some feel like they are made of thicker material that sometimes feels restrictive in training and feels like it may be too tight not matter the size you buy.
This Fuji rash guard is the answer to that problem. It feels like im training shirtless – that’s how flexible and lightweight it is.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| extermely breathable and lightweight | Some reviews mention poor stitching |
| ibjjf legal | |
| durable | |
| minimal design |
Elite Sports
Elite sports bjj rash guard is another one of my favorite rashguards – It was actually the first rashguard I ever bought and I continue to buy them as I move up through the ranks.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| affordable | very common |
| great quality | runs small |
| reinforced flatlock stitching | |
| rubberband waist liner |
Optimal Human
Optimal Human is known for their minimal designs and high quality at a decent price.
These price about mid range and are a decent buy if you prefer your rash guard with less branding and graphics.
- minimalist
- high quality
- solid value
Best Affordable BJJ Rash Guards:
1. Sanabul
Another decent buy for beginners, this rashguard fits great and is a solid option. This is also one of the more lighweight rash guards that I’ve worn.
- minimal brand design
- reinforced flatlock sticthing
- aerated armpit fabric
- lightweight and breathable material
| Pros: | Cons: |
| excellent fit | also very common |
| great quality | runs tight around shoulders / loose in stomach |
2. Elite Sports
If you’re looking for a standard bjj rash guard with no frills thats well made – this is the one for you
- minimal brand design
- great to represent your belt rank in vibrant color
- rubber waist band sewn in at the bottom
- reinforced flatlock sticthing
3. Under Armor
While I wanted to only include mma and bjj gear manufacturers on this list, the fact is that Under Armor makes a pretty solid rash guard at a legit price.
I can also recommend their spats too.
For the price, their rash guard is pretty unbeatable. If you don’t want to spend more for a big brand rash guard like those from Hayabusa or Phalanx you should consider brand like Under Armor.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| excellent fit (true to size) | not a bjj brand |
| great quality |
4. LAFROI
This is probably the most affordable rash guard on this list.
With that being said there are a few things, there are a couple things to keep in mind. In general, when you are purchasing a more expensive rash guard you are getting:
- better quality material
- better sticthing
- overall durability
I found this rash guard to be a little too tight around the neck and loose in other spots like the sleeves. So if you prefer to buy cheaper rash guards and just toss them after a couple months LAFROI may be a good options.
(In my personal opinion if I’m going to buy more affordable rash guards I prefer Sanabul or Elite)
| Pros: | Cons: |
| cool designs | may lack durability |
| affordable |
5. TSLA
I know you probably see most beginner’s wearing non bjj brand rash guards, but if we’re talking quality, very affordable rash guards (they come in a 3 pack*) another brand you may consider are these from TSLA.
This was actually the first rash guard I ever owned. I needed one quick and cheap and bought it on amazon.
Overall, it was pretty standard – nothing to get excited about and didn’t really have any of the bells and whistles like those qualities found with higher end rash guards made specifically for bjj (like waist liner, breathable mesh armptis).
This is another rash guard to consider if you want something very affordable and of decent quality.
6. Hawk
Hawk is another very affordable rash guard brand. If you’re not sure
about jiu jitsu and don’t want to spend 60+ on a rash guard yet. Hawk is a decent option.
But remember what you pay for with the more premium rash guards are:
- fit
- quality
- durability
- plus extra features like:
- rubber waist band line
- aerated armpit fabric
- re-inforced stitching
- multi strethc panels
So most of these more affordable rash guards may not have these qualities.
When I trained in this Hawk rash guard I thought it was decent, however after ~2 weeks of training I noticed issues with the seams separate and coming undone by the sleeves. While this is an affordable be option be aware that there’s a reason why there’s more expensive rash guards out there
7.Dev Ops
Another every day rash guard to keep in rotation is this three pack from Dev Ops.
These are simple rash guards without flair or any of the other qualitys of higher end rash guards.
However, remember you are buying a 3 pack of rash guards at a very affordable price.
I usually keep these in my car in case I forget a rash guard or if a friend forgets one.
They are a decent value for the price if that’s what you’re looking for.
Best Ranked BJJ Rash Guards:
These bjj rashguards will be of rank color and legal for any ibjjf sanctioned event*
1. Gold BJJ
Gold BJJ has been a great brand that I’ve been buying from for a while. They make some solid products, and their rashguard is no exception.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| fits well | runs small |
| doesn’t ride up | |
| aerated armpit fabric | |
| ibjjf legal |
2. Fuji
This is hands down the most lightweight rashguard I’ve worn. It almost feels like a second skin. It’s thin, durable, and breathes easy.
- extremely lightweight
- very breathable
- ibjjf legal
- thin but durable material
- flatlocking stitching
Higher End BJJ Rash Guards:
Nation Athletics
This is another higher end rashguard brand, but you certain get what you pay for. They offer awesome, unique designs and a great fit. I’ve gotten more than a handful of complements on this rash guard at the gym.
- awesome, unique designs
- fits true to size
- thicker, durable material
- rubberband waist liner
RVCA
I’m sure you’ve seen the Ruotolo twins sporting RVCA gear.
Their rash guards are pretty straight forward:
- very minimal deisngs
- high quality
- longer sleeves
- more expensive (but matched by their durability)
- true to size
Raven Fightwear
These rash guards which are available on amazon are pretty popular due to their designs.
If you dig nordic or dragon theme rash guards I’m sure you may oven one of these already.
I suspected the intricate design to peel or fade over time, but after training in it for almost two months, I haven’t see any signs of fading, peeling, or stitching coming loose.
Also if you’re a fan of the elastic waist band, you can rest assured since this rash gaurd does have one.
Level Black
Level Black is one of the newer brands that I’ve seen blow up recently. It seems like everyone at any recent big name competition has Level Black gear. (So I of course has to give them a shot):
- simple designs
- runs a little smaller (I sized up to an XL)
- tighter around the neck
- breathable
Phalanx
Phalanx is pretty legit and is one of my favorite higher end rash guards. My gym often works with Phalanx as their sponsor for many of our rash guards. Here is me wearing one of them
- solid quality
- fits true to size
- breathable
- not too restrictive to train in
MA1
I’m sure you’ve seen Lachlan Giles or Craig Jones wearing MA1 gear before.
While I haven’t personally trained in any of their rash guards, many of their reviews say that they are:
- lightweight
- breathable
- solid sublimated graphics
93 Brand
93 brand is about mid range in terms of price/value. They have some pretty simple designs and decent colors if that’s what you’re into.
I got this long sleeve as part of a two pack on bjjhq.com
They are affordable if you can find them on bjjhq.com or other similar deal site. These stayed in my rotation for some time until I gained some weight and found them to be too snug. I can’t really say anything too bad about these..just a decent rash guard if you can find them on a deal site.
VHTS
VHTS is a brand out of NY, USA. They are known for their slick minimal designs.
These are higher end rash guards, but the quality is definitely there. Again with all these higher end rash guards, the quality and durabilitye will all likely be there, but often what it will come down to is preference in terms of styel and design.
- mesh fabric (for ventilation on sides/armpits
- sublimated graphics
- true to size (but their gi’s are more for slimmer frames)
- very high qaulity
Hyperfly
What brought me to Hyperfly initially was its designs. I actually owned both their blue and purple ranked rash guards (see purple one here). I believe they have since updated their designs for their ranked rash guards.
Pretty standard quality but I did find them to run on the smaller size. If you like their designs I recommend going for it.
Hayabusa
I know some people are big fans of Hayabusa rash guards and gear, but in my own opinion, this geo short sleeve rash guard wasn’t one of my favorites.
I just felt like the collar was too thick and tight, and while the material was thicker and good quality, I just felt it to be too tight and restrictive in all the wrong places.
If you like a slimmer rash guard that fits tight from your shoulders down to your stomach this may be an option for you.
Origin
Origin is known as a premium bjj and apparrel company based out of Maine, USA.
With backing by Jocko Willink and some seriously high end gear its easy to see why its so popular.
This rashguard is:
- heavier than most rash guards
- material, seams, and stiching are all top quality
If you dig the design and want to invest in a quality rash guard its a pretty good option
Venum
Venum is one of the big sponsors of the UFC these days.
If you dig more minmial rash guards they are a solid option and pretty legit quaility for being about mid range on price. They are a little less expensive than other premiums brands like Nation or Origin.
- super minimal
- mid rang on price
- higher quality
- runs a bit smaller
- rubber band waistline
Tatami
Tatami is probably more known for their gis (I’m a big fan of their Nova line).
However, their rash guards are pretty solid as well.
While they’re not as thick and durable as Origin (they do also cost slightly less), they are a decent buy
If you dig simple designs, clean lines, and a more fitted rashguard, Tatami is a good options
Moya
These are a nother higer end, high quality rash guard brand.
If you’re a fan of branding, then have we got a rash guard for you.
- high quality
- true to size
- longer in length (so it won’t ride up)
Scramble
Scramble is another higher quality rash guard that will run you ~$60.
They fit true to size and have quality/durabililty to match their price.
They have both more simple and standout designs available. My one training partner only wears Scramble rash guards. I asked if he is sponsored by them and he said nah they just fit perfect.
While I haven’t persaonl trainined in one of them, they are on my list to try out next.
If you dig their designs you can expect the quality to match other higher end rash guards.
Half Sumo
Half Sumo has some awesome Japanese inspired graphics.
Like others, they are premium quality and price. My one training partner loves their rash guard and spats
- run smaller (we recommend sizing up)
- material is not as strethcy as other rashguards
- awesome designs
Fusion Fight Gear
If you’ve seen superhero inspired or star trek inspired rash guards around, you can thank Fusion fight gear.
They are based out of Canada and are known for the standout graphics depicting everything from popular movies, video games, comics, cartoons, and othe popular media.
If you are into their designs you can expect quality to be somwhat similar to other higher end rash guards.
While I felt that their quality didn’t quite compete with brands like Xmartial or Nation, if you’re a fan of the designs they may be an option for you.
Virus
Virus is probably more known for being a Canadian high quality performance clothing brand, but they actually have a decent selction of high quality rash guards.
Their rash guards are:
- minimal
- decent fit (with longer sleeves)
- 82% Nylon 18% Spandex
- Quick drying
Jiujiteiro
Jiujitero is one of the most popular bjj companies out there so I couldn’t leave them off this list.
They have some seriously slick (and minimal) designs plus quality is pretty legit. If you prefer a tighter fitting rash guard these may be a goo pick for you
- runs a little smaller (may have to size up)*
- runs tight around neck/waist
Best Rash Guards for Women
1. XMartial
For the price, quality, and durability, I gotta give this to Xmartial again.
I bought my wife this rash guard months before she even tried her first jiu jitsu class (I’m pretty sure she really just wanted an excuse to wear it), but either way she’s had it almost a year now and has still held up.
- designs haven’t faded
- stitches and seams are holding up
For women, I recommend checking out Xmartial too since they have so many different options and quality designs. If you’re trying to talk your girlfriend or spouse, try sweetening the deal with some new bjj gear.
2. Tatami
I’m a big fan of Tatami gear. Whenever I train gi, I’ll still rely on my good ole Tatami Classic
So after, I finally talked my wife into trying out jiu jitsu (it only took 3 years fellas). She tried a bunch of different rash guards and shorts.
One of the few that she stuck with was this set from Tatami. (She said):
- they fit great
- sleeves aren’t too long
- isn’t too tight around the neck
- shorts are a good length
My Personal Top 10 Rash Guards – Ranked
- Xmartial
- Fuji
- Nation
- Elite
- Sanabul
- Gold
- Phalanx
- Level Black
- Hyperfly
- Under Armor
Of the rash guards I have had first hand experience training in and have spent time reviewing, these are the ones that I would rank in my top ten list.
This list has changed over the years since I’ll go through favorites but I can guarantee most of these brands stay in my weekly rotation.
Best BJJ Rash Guard Brands
While recommending specific bjj rashguards is great, if you are looking for a trusted bjj rashguard brand, here are our pics:
1. Xmartial
2. Phalanx
3. Nation Athletics
4. Gold BJJ
5. Fuji
I have owned atleast three rashguards from each of these brands, and I can personally attest to their quality and durability.
How to Choose the Best Rash Guard
So how to go about finding the bets bjj rash guard –
First off, realistcally, there isn’t going to be that much of a difference between which rashguard you buy as long as they are in the same price range.
You just want a shirt that is tight fitting, doesn’t get in the way of training, and maybe helps you look like a middle aged power ranger.
However, the reason why this post and many other like it exists is because certain bjj rashguards don’t fit as well as others, don’t last as long as others, and maybe just feel like overall poorer quality.
What Qualities to Look for in a Jiu Jitsu Rash Guard
There are a few key features that should be present in every modern rashguard and must be present to be included as one of the best bjj rash guards:
- It is important that they are made of materials that dry quickly
- Aditionally, they should be composed of breathable material
- Last but not least, flatlock stitching is also becoming more and more popular and is used to prevent chafing and maintain durability over time
Some bjj practitioners, particularly those just beginning their training, may have a difficult time choosing the best rash guard so this post is here to help guide you.
Buying a rash guard won’t be as stressful as you think if you follow these steps:
- The fabric composition of the rash guard should be nylon, spandex, or polyester. (Due to the fact that the material of the rashguard has an impact on your focus and performance in the training room – it should be made of these materials. )
- To ensure your rash guard will last, be comfortable, and accommodate your bjj training requirements, check the stitching quality. If a rashguard is going to fall apart, it will usually happen at the seams so you want to make sure they are of the highest quality.
- Finally, make sure the rash guard will fit correctly by using the sizing chart provided by that specific brand of bjj rash guard (some will run large, small, or ideally be true to size).
So take a look at our reviews – each bjj rashguard will be ranked based on fit, quality, and durability
BJJ Rash Guards FAQs
What’s a BJJ Rash Guard?
Arash guard in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a fitted athletic shirt made from polyester and spandex. It is worn to ideally tackle two main issues of training in a regular tshirt – moister absorption and loose fit.
>>>Should you wear a bjj rash guard for training and competition?
In no-gi jiu jitsu, a rash guard replaces a t-shirt, and it can also be worn underneath a gi jacket in gi jiu jitsu training and competition.
A rash guard can also prevent severe skin infections, scratches, mat burns, and as wellas other skin irritations when worn underneath your gi or during no gi training.
Some gyms require you to only buy and wear their specific bjj rash guard and gi brands. Others may require you to wear a ranked rash guard of any brand depeciting the bjj belt colors).
Due to its snug fit and quick drying properties, it is preferred over a t-shirt because it prevents mat burn and scratches when rolling while not getting in the way of training by staying tight to your body.
In addition to short-sleeve and long-sleeve versions, BJJ rash guards may feature artworks or your rank color.
Is There a Difference Between Compression Shirts and Rash Guards?
In terms, fabric and material, there really isn’t a majori difference between a compression shirt and rash guard.
A compression shirts are used in a variety of sports and activities such as surfering and exercise and likely aids in blood flow to the muscles and organs during intense activities.
While rash guards also have these benefits, generally, the style and the fit of a bjj rash guard is different than a compression shirt.
A bjj rash guard can come in long sleeves (where compression shirts are usually short sleeved) and may have different material around the neck and/or rubber lining by the waist.
If you’re wondering, yes you can train bjj in a compression shirt.
Do You Need a Rash Guard to Train BJJ?
While many gyms require you to wear their specific gi and rashguard brands some more flexible gyms will even allow you to train in a t shirt especially when just starting training.
The best bet is always to call the gym and confirm what you are required to wear for your first day and continued training.
While its possible to train a t shirt, purchasing and wearing a rashguard is always recommeded for better protection, comfortn, and better performance.
Should I Wear a Rash Guard Under My Gi?
Choosing to wear a rash guard under your Gi primarily will usually boils down to personal preference.
However, some oragnized bjj competition events like those held by IBJJF require you not to wear a rash guard underneath your gi.
Finally, my personal preference is to always wear a rash guard under my gi. It is more sanitory and will help with circulation and be sweat wicking.
It ultimately depends on what makes you feel most comfortable during your practice, but always be sure to check competition regulations and their rash guard requirements.
What Qualities to Look for in BJJ Rash Guards
The below are all signs of high quality rash guards:
1. What Is Flatlock Stitching
The term flatlock stitching refers to a type of joining method where there is no additional fabric at the seam. It is a reinforced stitching method.
It will aid in durability and in keeping the fabric held tightly together.
Additionally, poor quality rashguards that don’t have flatlock stiching may cause irritation during the friction and the intense training sessions of bjj.
2. Four-way stretch fabrics
In order to last hours of training, high-quality rash guards need to be made of a stretchy material that won’t catch on fingers, roll up, or be accidentally tugged.
It is therefore important to be able to stretch the fabric both lengthwise and widthwise when making a rash guard since it will be pulled on and stretched frequently during training.
Common four-way stretch fabris are generally made form a blend of spandex and polyester.
3. Sublimated graphics
Sublimated graphics are becoming more and more popular in high quality rash guards.
Ink is embedded into polyester fabric or surfaces using heat and pressure in the sublimation process.
This process is done again to increase durability and fight against fading or peeling during frequent use where the rashgard will be soaked with sweat and washed several times a week.
4. Rubber waistband
On the bottom waist portion of most high quality rash guards, there is an anti-slip band.
Rubber or silicone straps used to make these waistand are used to prevent the rash guard from riding up during drilling or rolling.
5. Multi-panel construction
As opposed to using a smaller number of larger fabric panels, a multipanel rash guard is constructed from individual panels that are stitched together.
Moving comfortably and with more flexibility is possible with such rashguards.
6. Aerated Fabrics
High quality rashguards will sometimes have more breathable materials – usually in the arm pit region or upper back.
These aid in air flow to help cool down the the areas that will produce the most sweat and where a large amount of heat will come from.
Should your bjj rash guard be tight fitting?
Rash guards should be tight enough so that they can compress your muscles appropriately, but loose enough that you can still move witin full range of motion. In martial arts, this is especially true.
You want to always have the flexibility required for bjj and not have your clothing get in the way – which is one of the main points of wearing a rashguard.
A rash guard that is loose-fitting protects your body from friction burns and bacteria getting into open wounds, but this only covers part of the job of a rash guard since you will often find them getting in the way by your training partner’s limbs getting caught in your rashguard or having it frequently ride up.
Is It Okay To Wear a Loose Rash Guard?
When it comes to the fit of your rash guard, the focus should be on functionality.
A loose rash guard can still provide a layer of protection against skin abrasions and help manage sweat.
However, it might not serve all the benefits that a rash guard should, and may even get in the way of training (by riding up and getting caught on you or your partner’s hands or feet).
A well-fitted rash guard is meant to act like a second skin, moving with your body and not against it. So while it’s okay to wear a loose rash guard, it might not be as effective.
Do Most BJJ Gyms Require You to Wear their Rash Guard?
While gym policies can vary, it’s not a universal requirement for BJJ practitioners to wear their gym’s specific rash guard.
Some gyms like Gracie Barra or Atos require you to buy and training in their specific gear for gi and no gi. I admit it does look more uniform in training, but be sure to check your gym’s policies.
My 10th Planet gym doesn’t require to wear their specific brand rash guard. However, during competition class we are required to wear a rash guard matching our belt rank color.
Finally, some gyms require you to compete wearing their brand rash guard or gi.
So the rules will vary widely based on your bjj gym for both practice and competition.
Does It Matter What Color Rash Guard You Wear?
The color of your rash guard mostly comes down to personal preference and any specific gym or competition rules.
However, I would avoid wearing any of the main belt colored rash guards if you are not of that belt level (For example, if you are a white belt, I would avoid wearing a ranked brown belt rash guard)
While most gyms ill not have rules against this, it may help in avoiding confusion from your training partners or gym members.
Some gyms or competitions may require certain colors, especially in ranked matches where the color might indicate your belt level.
In my bjj gym’s competition classes, we are required to wear a ranked colored rash guard based on your belt level.
What Material Should Your Rash Guard Be?
Rash guards are usually made from a blend of polyester and spandex.
- Polyester offers durability, resistance to shrinkage, and quick-drying properties.
- Spandex, on the other hand, provides the elasticity needed for a snug fit and unrestricted movement.
For example, the Fuji rash guard on this list is made from 100% polyester and I found it to be extremely lightweigth and breathable.
A Note on Comfort and Practically for BJJ Rash Guards and Training
When it comes to your personal comfort, the best BJJ rash guard should be snug but not tight.
An ideal rashguard should allow for maximum flexibility in movement, as well as be designed specifically for the correct gender with correct fit and dimensions in mind.
The rash guard should also not ride up your groin.
You don’t want to be that person who constantly adjusts their rashguard to make sure its not riding up during sparring.
A sewn in rubber band at the bottom of the rashguard can often be found in many well made rashguards and is there to prevent them from rolling or riding up.
Finally, as a rule of thumb, your rash guard should fit snugly, acting as a second skin.
On Short Sleeves vs Long Sleeve Rash Guards
While choosing between short or long sleeves comes down to preference, everyone who trains bjj should ideally be concerned with safety and cleanliness.
Option for a long sleeve rashguard is always a good option is you are trying to limit your skin contact with the mat and with others during intense training.
This can definitely aid in preventing skin infections and other rashs you may encounter in bjj.
The Reason Why We Ranked BJJ Rash Guards Based on Durability
BJJ training is tough – you want your rash guard to not get in the way and last as long in a training session as you do
Some key points to note on durability:
- The quality of the flatlock stitch is just as important as the material itself. Moisture can cause mold and other issues, so it should be absorbent and quick drying.
- Next, graphics on rash guards shouldn’t easily wear off, especially if they feature printed graphics.
- Finally, you want to make sure that the colors are correct and not faded or misrepresented – especially if you are wearing a ranked rash guard and want to do your rank color proud.
How to Wash and Care for your Rash Guards
As a general rule, you should wash your rash guard immediately upon getting in from training. Having your rash guard sit wet and filled with sweat only to dry in the dry in the trunk of your car is a sure fire way to get stuck with an ever present funk.
>>>Our full guide on how to wash and care for your bjj rash guard
For me personally, I prefer to wash my rash guards in colde water and then dry them on low heat.
When I wash them and then let them hang dry I find that they sometimes do not get as clean as when I dry them.
Will My bjj Rash Guard Stretch Over Time?
Quality rash guards won’t stretch over time, as long as they are made from high quality, durable material.
In spite of that, it does happen sometimes even withreputable manufacturers. This can especially occure if you are not washing them properly.
Our recommendation is to make sure that you are washing and taking care of your rash guards (you spent 60+ dollars on your shirt ya know)
After each training session, it is strongly recommended that they be washed and dried as soon after training as possible.
Should You Buy Cheaper Rash Guards to Save Money?
It may seem unnecessary to spend money on well-known bjj rash guard brands. I get it 60-80 dollars on a shirt seems a bit excessive.
You might have no choice but to go low cost when your budget is limited – especially when consdering all the other expenses of bjj such as – gym fees, transportation, gi’s, and other bjj gear. If you do want to go the more budget friendly route, I’d recommend going with Sanabul or Under Armor.
Most of the reputable bjj brands such as 93 Brand, Hyperfly, and Kingz specialize in making BJJ rash guards of the highest quality, so you’ll often get more for your money.
I’ve defintely gone through several cheaper rash guards that just felt cheap, fell apart at the seams, and even gained a moldy, unwashable scent over time.
I strongly recommend investing in one by a reputable company for your bjj training.
Thanks for reading all and best of luck on finding your new favorite rash guard! – Zack
