The Best Gi Brands for Jiu Jitsu
For practitioners of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), finding the right gi is essential. The right gi can mean the difference between comfort and discomfort, ease of movement and restriction, and durability and wear and tear. With so many brands on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this article, we'll explore the best gi brands for Jiu Jitsu, including their history, owners and accomplishments in BJJ, and notable figures sponsored by each brand.
1. Atama
Atama is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gi brand that was founded in 1989 by André Fernandes. Atama is one of the oldest and most well-known gi brands in the world of BJJ. The brand prides itself on producing high-quality gis that are both durable and comfortable to wear.
Owners
André Fernandes is a black belt under Carlos Gracie Jr. He is a highly accomplished competitor, having won numerous tournaments in Brazil and around the world. In addition to his success in BJJ, Fernandes is also an accomplished businessman, having successfully built Atama into one of the most recognizable gi brands in the world.
Notable Figures
Atama has sponsored a number of high-profile BJJ competitors, including Rafael Lovato Jr., Xande Ribeiro, and Roberto Cyborg Abreu. The brand is also known for its collaborations with other companies, such as RVCA and Meerkatsu.
2. Vulkan
Vulkan is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gi brand that was founded in 2003 by a group of friends in Brazil. The brand is known for its high-quality gis, as well as its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
Owners
The founders of Vulkan are black belts under Roberto Godoi. While the names of the founders are not widely known, the brand has become a favorite among BJJ practitioners around the world.
Notable Figures
Vulkan has sponsored a number of high-profile BJJ competitors, including Lucas Lepri, Felipe Pena, and Mackenzie Dern. The brand is also known for its partnerships with other companies, such as Shoyoroll and Budo Videos.
3. Shoyoroll
Shoyoroll is a California-based gi brand that was founded in 2006 by a group of friends. The brand is known for its limited edition gis, which are highly sought after by collectors and BJJ practitioners alike.
Owners
The founders of Shoyoroll are black belts under Ralph Gracie. The brand has been highly successful, thanks in part to its limited edition releases and collaborations with other companies.
Notable Figures
Shoyoroll has sponsored a number of high-profile BJJ competitors, including Marcus Buchecha Almeida, Leandro Lo, and Romulo Barral. The brand is also known for its collaborations with other companies, such as Vans and RVCA.
4. Tatami Fightwear
Founded in 2009 in the United Kingdom, Tatami Fightwear has quickly risen to become one of the most popular gi brands in the world. The company is known for its high-quality gis and other BJJ gear, and it sponsors many top-level athletes and events.
One of the most notable figures sponsored by Tatami Fightwear is BJJ black belt and UFC fighter, Dan Hardy. Hardy is a well-known martial artist who has competed in both the UFC and the Cage Warriors promotions. He has also won several prestigious BJJ competitions, including the IBJJF European Championships and the Gracie Invitational.
Tatami Fightwear's gis are known for their durability, comfort, and style. The company offers a wide range of gis, from lightweight options for hot weather training to heavier gis for colder climates. Tatami's gis also come in a variety of colors and designs, so there's something for everyone.
5. Scramble
Founded in 2009 in the United Kingdom, Scramble is another rising star in the world of BJJ gi brands. The company is known for its stylish and high-quality gis, rash guards, and other BJJ gear.
Scramble's gis are made from high-quality materials and are designed to be both durable and comfortable. The company offers a variety of gi models, from lightweight options for hot weather training to heavier gis for colder climates.
One of the most notable figures sponsored by Scramble is BJJ black belt and UFC fighter, Tom Breese. Breese is a well-known martial artist who has competed in both the UFC and the Cage Warriors promotions. He has also won several prestigious BJJ competitions, including the IBJJF European Championships.
6. Atama
Founded in 1989 in Brazil, Atama is one of the oldest and most respected gi brands in the world. The company is known for its high-quality gis, which are made from top-notch materials and are designed to be both durable and comfortable.
One of the most notable figures associated with Atama is BJJ legend, Royler Gracie. Gracie is a 7th degree red and black belt and is widely considered to be one of the greatest BJJ competitors of all time. He has won numerous BJJ competitions, including the IBJJF World Championships and the ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championships.
Atama's gis are known for their excellent quality and attention to detail. The company offers a variety of gi models, from lightweight options for hot weather training to heavier gis for colder climates. Atama's gis also come in a range of colors and designs, so there's something for everyone.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gi for your BJJ training is an important decision. With so many different brands and models to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start.
In this article, we've highlighted five of the best gi brands for Jiu Jitsu. Each of these brands has a rich history in the sport and is known for its high-quality gis and other BJJ gear. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, any of these brands would make an excellent choice for your next gi.
Remember, when choosing a gi, it's important to consider factors like size, material, and style. You should also take into account your training goals and preferences. With a little research and some trial and error, you're sure to find the perfect gi for your needs.