Your training gear works just as hard as you do, and if you take care of it, it’ll keep showing up day after day, roll after roll. But Gi and No-Gi gear are made from different materials, and they each require their own care approach.
Here’s a simple guide to help you get the most out of your gear:
Gi uniforms are typically made of 100% cotton (sometimes in pearl weave or gold weave), and they’re designed to endure constant gripping and pulling, but like any uniform, they need the right care to maintain their structure.
Bacteria and sweat build up fast in cotton fabrics, especially after hard rounds. Washing your gi after every class helps prevent odors, discoloration, and skin irritation.
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Use cold or warm water to prevent shrinking
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Choose mild detergent (no bleach or fabric softeners)
Tumble drying your gi can shrink it, damage the stitching, and cause premature wear. Hang it to dry in a well-ventilated area, ideally out of direct sunlight to avoid fading.
If you train multiple times a week, rotating between two or more gis can help preserve their fit and structure. It also gives them time to dry completely between uses, which reduces odor and mildew buildup.
No-Gi gear is usually made of polyester and spandex blends, which require a slightly different approach. While they dry faster and resist shrinking, they can break down if washed improperly, especially with heat or rough cycles.
This helps protect sublimated graphics, stitching, and printed logos from rubbing against other clothes in the wash.
Heat weakens the elastic properties in spandex, leading to saggy collars, loose waistbands, and worn-out cuffs.
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Cold wash only
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No fabric softeners — they leave a film on moisture-wicking fabrics
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Hang dry or lay flat; avoid direct sun for dark colors
Pilling happens when fabric fibers break down due to friction, usually from low-quality blends or repeated heat exposure. It’s a sign your gear’s lifespan is shortening. Invest in gear that resists pilling from the start, and treat it with care to keep it looking sharp longer.
Gear That Goes the Distance
You don’t have to baby your gear, but you do have to respect it. Quality products deserve proper care, and a few simple steps will keep your gear training as hard as you do.
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