How to Choose the Right Youth Jiu-Jitsu Gi: A Parent’s Guide

How to Choose the Right Youth BJJ Gi for Your Child

Starting your child’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey is exciting, but figuring out which gi to buy can feel like stepping onto the mats blindfolded. With so many options out there, parents often ask the same question: What makes a great kids' BJJ gi?

At Toro BJJ, we’ve built our youth line around three things: durability, comfort, and competition readiness. Let’s break it down so you can make the right call.

1. Fabric Weight: Why 380 GSM Works for Kids

When shopping for youth jiu-jitsu gis, weight matters. Too heavy, and your child feels like they’re dragging a backpack around the mats. Too light, and the gi won’t survive more than a handful of rolls.

All Toro youth gis use a 380 GSM pearl weave jacket paired with 9oz ripstop pants. That combo hits the sweet spot — lightweight enough for kids to move freely, strong enough to hold up against relentless tugging, pulling, and takedowns.

2. Reinforced Stress Points = Longer Gi Life

Kids don’t hold back when they train. That’s why reinforced stress points aren’t optional — they’re essential. Our stitching is built to survive the grip battles, cartwheel guard passes, and “accidental” tug-of-war matches that happen in every kids’ class.

Translation: you’ll be replacing belts before you replace a Toro youth gi.

3. Competition vs. Training BJJ GIS

Not every gi is IBJJF legal, but if your child plans to compete, that detail matters.

This way, you can stock a comp-ready gi for tournaments while keeping a second gi in the rotation for weekly training.

4. Youth Gi Sizing: Growth + Comfort

Finding the right fit is a balancing act between today’s comfort and tomorrow’s growth. Here’s a quick size guide:

  • M0000: 30–45 lbs, ages 3–5
  • M000: 35–50 lbs, ages 4–6
  • M00: 45–55 lbs, ages 5–8
  • M0: 55–75 lbs, ages 6–9
  • M1: 70–85 lbs, ages 7–10
  • M2: 75–95 lbs, ages 8–11
  • M3: 85–105 lbs, ages 9–12
  • M4: 100–135 lbs, ages 10–13

👉 Tip: If your child is between sizes, it’s usually best to size up. Kids grow quickly, and gis can shrink slightly if washed hot or dried incorrectly.

Toro BJJ youth jiu jitsu gi size chart with weight and age ranges from M0000 to M4

5. Care = Longevity

Want the gi to last? Keep it simple: wash in cold water, hang dry.

Check out our full guide here: How to Wash Your BJJ Gi and Keep It Fresh.

Pro tip: don’t let sweaty gis sit in the car overnight, your nose will thank you later.

6. Extras Parents Forget (But Shouldn’t)

  • Belts: Kids advance fast — make sure you have the right color belt handy.
  • Rash Guards: A rash guard under the gi keeps your child more comfortable and extends the life of the gi. (Our youth ranked and loose-fit rash guards’ pair perfectly.) Youth BJJ Rash Guards
  • Mouthguards: Protect those growing smiles. BJJ Mouth Guards

7. Wholesale for Academies

Running a kids’ program? Toro offers wholesale youth GIS so your academy can stay uniform without breaking the bank. Please get in touch with us directly for bulk orders. Wholesale Youth BJJ Gis

Final Roll-Up

The best youth BJJ gi strikes a balance between fit, durability, and IBJJF legality. Whether you’re buying your child’s very first gi or stocking up for their next competition, Toro has you covered with options like the Primo 4, Super Patriot, Blue Bull, Dark Horse, and Plain/No Logo youth gis.

👉 Check out the complete line of Toro Youth Jiu-Jitsu Gis and give your child a gi built to keep up with their training.

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