Buying a BJJ Gi? Don’t Fall for These Common Marketing Tricks

Ever tried rolling in a gi that felt like a parachute in some places and a straightjacket in others? If so, you’ve probably fallen victim to the so-called "unisex" BJJ gi—or even worse, a so-called "gender-specific" gi that’s really just the same design with a different label. Both are marketing gimmicks disguised as inclusivity.

The Unisex Gi: A Convenient Lie

Let’s be real. Men and women aren’t built the same. Women generally have wider hips, a shorter torso, and a different shoulder-to-waist ratio compared to men. So how does one gi magically fit both? It doesn’t. Brands pushing unisex gis are usually just cutting corners, selling a single pattern as a "universal" fit instead of investing in proper design.

The Fake Gender-Specific Gi

Some brands take the deception even further. Instead of calling their gis unisex, they market the same exact cut separately as "men’s" and "women’s" versions—without actually changing anything in the design. It’s the same gi with different tags, tricking customers into thinking they’re getting a tailored fit when they’re not.

Why Fit Actually Matters

A bad-fitting gi isn’t just annoying—it messes with your game. Too tight? Say goodbye to fluid movement. Too baggy? Prepare to get caught in grips all day. A gi should feel like an extension of your body, not something you’re constantly adjusting between rounds.

Don’t Fall for the Gimmick

Some brands rely on buzzwords instead of real solutions. Whether it’s a so-called unisex gi or a misleading gender-specific version, ask yourself: is it actually designed for different body types, or is it just a generic cut with a new label? A good gi isn’t about shortcuts—it’s about performance, comfort, and a fit that works for you, not just the brand’s bottom line.