When enrolling your child in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), one of the first pieces of equipment you’ll need is a kids jiu jitsu gi. While many parents focus on size and color, the fabric type is just as important. The material affects durability, comfort, weight, breathability, and even performance during training and competition.

If you’re new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, understanding gi fabrics can feel confusing. Terms like single weave, pearl weave, and gold weave are commonly used, but what do they actually mean?

In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of kids jiu jitsu gi fabrics, explain their pros and cons, and help you choose the best option for your child’s training needs.

Why Fabric Matters in a Kids Jiu Jitsu Gi

Children train differently than adults. They move constantly, sweat heavily, and outgrow uniforms quickly. The fabric of a kids jiu jitsu gi affects:

• Durability – Can it handle daily training and frequent washing?
• Weight – Is it light enough for comfort?
• Breathability – Will it keep your child cool?
• Softness – Is it gentle on sensitive skin?
• Shrinkage – Will it change size after washing?

Choosing the right fabric ensures your child stays comfortable, confident, and focused on learning.

1. Single Weave Fabric

Single weave is one of the most traditional and affordable fabric types used in kids jiu jitsu gi uniforms.

What Is Single Weave?

Single weave cotton is made using a basic weaving pattern that creates a lightweight and breathable fabric. It is thinner compared to other weave types.

Pros of Single Weave

• Lightweight and comfortable
• Breathable for hot training sessions
• More affordable
• Dries faster after washing

Cons of Single Weave

• Less durable than pearl or gold weave
• Can shrink if not washed properly
• May wear out faster with intense training

Best For:

• Beginners
• Younger kids (ages 4–8)
• Casual training 1–2 times per week

If your child is just starting BJJ, single weave is usually a practical and budget-friendly choice.

2. Pearl Weave Fabric

Pearl weave is the most popular and widely used fabric in modern Brazilian Jiu Jitsu uniforms, including kids jiu jitsu gi options.

What Is Pearl Weave?

Pearl weave features a tighter, textured weaving pattern that resembles small pearls. It balances durability and lightweight comfort.

Pros of Pearl Weave

• Strong and durable
• Lightweight compared to gold weave
• Less prone to shrinking
• Comfortable for regular training

Cons of Pearl Weave

• Slightly more expensive than single weave
• Texture may feel stiff initially (softens after washes)

Best For:

• Kids training 3–5 times per week
• Competition use
• Active children who train consistently

Most academies recommend pearl weave for children because it offers the best combination of comfort and strength.

3. Gold Weave Fabric

Gold weave was once very popular in competition settings and is known for its durability.

What Is Gold Weave?

Gold weave is a hybrid weave combining elements of single and double weave. It is thicker and more durable than single weave.

Pros of Gold Weave

• Very durable
• Strong collar and stitching
• Professional appearance

Cons of Gold Weave

• Heavier than pearl weave
• Can feel bulky for younger children
• Takes longer to dry

Best For:

• Older kids (10+ years)
• Serious competition training
• Children who are rough on uniforms

While durable, gold weave may feel too heavy for very young kids.

4. Double Weave Fabric

Double weave is one of the thickest and heaviest fabric types available.

What Is Double Weave?

Double weave fabric is made with two layers of cotton woven together, creating a very thick and tough material.

Pros of Double Weave

• Extremely durable
• Harder for opponents to grip
• Long lifespan

Cons of Double Weave

• Heavy and stiff
• Not very breathable
• Can be uncomfortable for kids
• Higher price point

Best For:

• Advanced competitors
• Cold climates
• Older, stronger children

For most kids, double weave is unnecessary due to its weight and stiffness.

5. Ripstop Fabric (Used in Pants)

While jackets use weave fabrics, kids jiu jitsu gi pants often use ripstop material.

What Is Ripstop?

Ripstop is a lightweight cotton or cotton-blend fabric woven with reinforced threads to prevent tearing.

Pros of Ripstop

• Lightweight
• Tear-resistant
• Dries quickly
• Comfortable for active movement

Cons of Ripstop

• Slightly less soft than full cotton
• Can feel thin

Ripstop pants are popular in kids jiu jitsu gi sets because they allow better mobility and resist ripping during ground training.

6. Cotton vs Cotton-Blend Fabrics

Most kids jiu jitsu gi uniforms are made from:

• 100% Cotton
• Cotton-Polyester Blend

100% Cotton

Pros:

• Soft and comfortable
• Breathable
• Traditional feel

Cons:

• Shrinks if not washed properly
• Wrinkles easily

Cotton-Poly Blend

Pros:

• Less shrinkage
• Lighter weight
• Dries faster

Cons:

• Slightly less breathable
• May feel less traditional

For growing children, cotton-blend fabrics can be practical because they reduce shrinkage issues.

7. GSM: Understanding Fabric Weight

When shopping for a kids jiu jitsu gi, you may see “GSM” listed. GSM stands for grams per square meter, which indicates fabric thickness.

• 250–350 GSM → Lightweight (ideal for kids)
• 350–450 GSM → Midweight
• 450+ GSM → Heavyweight

For children, a lightweight or midweight gi is usually the best option for comfort and flexibility.

How to Choose the Right Fabric for Your Child

Here’s a quick decision guide:

For Beginners (Ages 4–8)

• Single weave or lightweight pearl weave
• 250–350 GSM

For Regular Training (3–4 days/week)

• Pearl weave
• Ripstop pants

For Competition

• Pearl weave or gold weave
• Check academy rules

For Rough Training

• Pearl weave with reinforced stitching
• Durable collar construction

Fabric and Competition Rules

If your child plans to compete, always check your academy or tournament regulations. For example, organizations like International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation have specific rules about:

• Allowed colors
• Sleeve length
• Fabric thickness
• Patches and branding

Choosing the correct fabric ensures your child won’t face issues on competition day.

Maintenance Tips for Kids Jiu Jitsu Gi Fabrics

To extend the lifespan of your child’s gi:

1. Wash in cold water
2. Air dry to prevent shrinkage
3. Avoid bleach
4. Wash immediately after training
5. Turn inside out before washing

Proper care is especially important for single weave cotton, which can shrink more easily.

Common Parent Questions

Does Fabric Affect Performance?

Yes. Lightweight fabrics allow faster movement, while heavier fabrics may feel restrictive.

Will the Gi Shrink?

Most cotton gis shrink slightly. Buying slightly larger (without being too loose) is often recommended.

Which Fabric Lasts the Longest?

Pearl weave and gold weave typically last longer than single weave.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right kids jiu jitsu gi fabric doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is balancing:

• Comfort
• Durability
• Weight
• Training frequency
• Budget

For most children, pearl weave offers the best all-around option. Beginners can start with single weave, while competitive or older kids may benefit from gold weave.

Understanding the differences between fabrics ensures your child trains comfortably and confidently in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

If you’re buying your first kids jiu jitsu gi, focus on lightweight comfort, proper fit, and durable stitching — and your child will be ready to step onto the mats with confidence.