A branded gi and rash guard is one of the easiest ways for an academy to build identity and add a steady line of revenue. Here's what to think about before you order.
Choosing the gi
Weave and weight
Pearl weave is the most popular choice for academy gis. It's strong but light enough for long training sessions. Our standard BJJ gi is a 450 gsm pearl weave, which suits most students for everyday training.
Fit and sizing
BJJ gis are sized A0 to A6 for adults, with separate youth sizes. Have students of different builds try the prototype gi before you commit to a full run, and check the size chart for everyone else.
Branding
Most academies use a mix of embroidery and patches: a chest logo, a shoulder or back patch, and sometimes the academy name down the pant leg. Keep in mind that federation competitions have rules on patch placement, so check them if your students compete.
Choosing the rash guard
For rash guards, sublimation is the clear winner. The design is printed into four-way stretch fabric, so it won't crack when the fabric stretches during rolling. You can use your academy colours, rank colours, or a fully custom pattern.
- Long sleeve for gi and no-gi training, short sleeve for warmer climates.
- Rank-coloured versions are popular for no-gi classes.
- Match the rash guard design to your fight shorts for a complete no-gi set.
Ordering tips for academy owners
- 1.Start with the prototype of each item and let your coaches train in it for a week.
- 2.Pre-sell to students with a sign-up sheet before ordering bulk, so you know your sizes.
- 3.Keep a few of each popular size in stock for new members.
Shrinkage: order for the fit after washing
Cotton gis shrink, mostly in the first few hot washes. Pre-shrunk fabric reduces this a lot, but students should still wash cold and hang dry. When you size a run, plan for how the gi will fit after a few washes, not straight out of the bag. Our BJJ gi shrinkage guide explains how to plan for it.
Planning the size run
Most academy orders are weighted towards A2 and A3 for adults, with smaller runs of A1, A4 and kids' sizes. The easiest way to get it right is a sign-up sheet with each student's height and weight, then match them to the size chart before you order. Our BJJ gi size guide for academy orders walks through it.
Patches and embroidery placement
The usual set-up is an embroidered or woven chest logo, a large back patch and a shoulder or pant patch. If your students compete, keep patches within the federation's allowed areas. See where to put patches on a BJJ gi for the common placements and rules.
Belts, shorts and the rest of the set
Academies that sell a full set (gi, belt, rash guard and fight shorts in matching colours) usually sell more than those that only stock gis. We make custom BJJ belts, rash guards and fight shorts in the same factory, so colours and logos match across the range.
Ordering from the USA, UK or Australia
Academies order factory direct: the gis are made in our own factory in Sialkot, and our booking offices in Chicago and Melbourne take quotes and orders (they are offices, not showrooms). There is no minimum order, so a small academy can start with a short run and re-order as students join, and shipping is free from 25 pieces. See how ordering works for US academies and teams.
What to send for a quote
- Your logo, as a vector file if you have one.
- Gi colours (white, blue, black) and the weave you want.
- A rough size breakdown, or the number of students.
- Where you want embroidery and patches.
- The date you need the gis at the academy.
With that we can quote and start your prototype. For full details on fabrics and options, see our custom BJJ gi page.
Common questions
What's the minimum order for custom academy gis?
There's no minimum order. Many academies start with a small first run in their most popular sizes and re-order as students join.
Can we see a gi with our logo before ordering in bulk?
Yes. We make a complimentary prototype with your logo so you can check the weave, fit and embroidery before bulk production starts.
How long does an academy gi order take?
Bulk production usually takes 2–4 weeks after you approve the prototype, plus shipping time to your academy.
Can an academy in the USA order custom gis direct from the factory?
Yes. We make the gis in our own factory in Sialkot, Pakistan, and our Chicago booking office takes quotes and orders from US academies (it is an office, not a showroom). There is no minimum order, you approve a complimentary customised prototype with your logo first, bulk takes 2 to 4 weeks, shipping is free from 25 pieces and quotes usually come back within one business day.
Embroidery or patches: which is better for an academy gi logo?
Most academies use both. An embroidered chest logo is stitched into the jacket, and patches carry the bigger artwork on the back, shoulders or pants. Embroidered patches give a raised, textured look and woven patches suit fine detail and small lettering. If your students compete, keep logos and patches within your federation's allowed areas.
