BJJ Gear Checklist: Everything You Need for Class
β°Contents
Complete BJJ gear checklist: gi, rashguard, mouthguard, tape, hygiene items and what to bring to your first class vs. advanced training.
Essential Gear for Every Class
| Item | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| BJJ Gi (or rash guard + shorts) | Required for class. Have 2+ for hygiene rotation. |
| Mouthguard | Protects teeth during sparring β required at most schools |
| Ear protection (optional) | Prevents cauliflower ear for heavy grapplers |
| Finger tape | Essential for gi grapplers β prevents and manages finger injuries |
| Water bottle | 1-2L minimum for a training session |
| Flip-flops | Required off the mat for hygiene. Mandatory. |
Hygiene Essentials for Your Bag
Antibacterial soap or tea tree wash. Small towel for shower. Clean underwear. Deodorant. Band-aids and waterproof bandaging. Nail clippers (trim before class). An emergency gi in case yours isn't dry β no gi means no training.
Competition Day Bag
Gi + spare gi (in case of disqualification for illegal patches or tears). Rashguard. Flip-flops. Mouthguard. Finger tape. Snacks (banana, rice balls, electrolyte drink). Photo ID and competition registration. Headphones for warm-up. Anti-anxiety item of your choice (music, ritual, food).
What NOT to Bring
Jewelry of any kind (rings, earrings, necklaces) β removed before training. Shoes on the mat. Dirty gi (twice-worn without washing). Strong cologne or perfume β training partners will tap from your smell, not your technique.