How to Choose a BJJ Gi Size: A0 to A5 Explained
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Jiu-jitsu gis use A-sizes (A0, A1, A2, A3, A4, A5) instead of small, medium and large. Most brands pick the size from your height and your weight together, but the numbers are not the same from one brand to the next. Here is how to choose with less guesswork.
How A-sizes work
An A-size combines height and weight. The system fits most people, but it can miss for very tall and lean people and for larger builds. Some brands add "L" (long) or "H" (heavy or broad) variants, such as A2H, to cover those cases.
Charts differ by brand
One school's A0 is about 5'4" to 5'7" and 60 to 65 kg, and its A4 covers 95 to 120 kg. Another brand lists A0 at 54 to 65 kg and A4 at 105 to 120 kg, with different height bands again. Gold BJJ's chart is more granular, with A0 up to 140 lb and A5 covering 250 to 280 lb. Always use the size chart of the exact brand you are buying.
If you are between sizes
- Some makers say height should win when you sit between two sizes.
- Others say it is a matter of taste: a tighter, slimmer fit points toward the smaller size, and more room points toward the larger one.
- If a gi can shrink, size up. One brand reports about 3 cm of shrinkage on a cold wash and says never to tumble dry. Check the care label for your gi.
Check these before you order
- Your height and weight.
- The brand's own chart, not another brand's.
- Sleeve and pant length if you are tall or short for your weight.
- The care instructions and any shrinkage notes.
Shopping for a gi? See our BJJ gi collection, and contact us if you need help with sizing before you order.