BJJ rash guard guide
What is a BJJ rash guard?
A BJJ rash guard is a close-fitting athletic shirt made for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training. It provides a smooth layer between your skin, the mat and your training partner, helping reduce friction during grappling.
Originally used in surfing, rash guards are now a familiar part of combat sports. Stretch fabrics, a snug fit and moisture-wicking performance make them practical for training. This guide explains why athletes wear rash guards, how they are made and what to look for when choosing one.
Why BJJ athletes wear rash guards
Skin coverage. A rash guard adds a layer between your skin and the mat. Clean gear and good training hygiene still matter.
A close, supportive fit. The snug, stretchy fit keeps excess fabric out of the way while you move through rolls and scrambles.
Less friction. Smooth fabric helps minimize rubbing against your partner’s gi or skin and can help reduce mat burns.
Sweat management. Moisture-wicking fabric helps move sweat away from your skin, making intense sessions more comfortable.
Team identity. Custom logos, team colors and sponsor graphics let academies, athletes and brands make their rash guards their own.
How BJJ rash guards are made
Textile selection, sublimation printing and precision sewing work together to create a garment built for movement.
Fabric selection. High-quality stretch blends are selected for flexibility and color retention.
Sublimation printing. Graphics and logos are heat-transferred into the fabric rather than applied as a surface layer. The result is vibrant, long-lasting design.
Cutting & sewing. Panels are cut and assembled with flatlock machines, creating strong, smooth seams suited to grappling.
Quality control. Each piece is checked, including stretch, wash and colorfast testing, before shipment.
Choosing your BJJ rash guard
How should a BJJ rash guard fit?
Look for a close fit that lets you move comfortably. Raise your arms, bend and rotate: the fabric should stretch with you without feeling restrictive. Check the style’s measurements rather than relying only on your usual shirt size.
Should I choose short or long sleeves?
Short sleeves leave your arms uncovered, while long sleeves provide more fabric coverage. Choose the style you find comfortable for your training and check your academy’s requirements.
Can I wear a rash guard for gi and no-gi training?
Rash guards are commonly used in no-gi training and can also be worn under a gi. Follow your academy’s dress guidelines. For competitions, check the event’s current uniform rules before choosing your style or colors.
What should I look for in the fabric and seams?
Look for stretch that moves with you, moisture-wicking fabric and smooth seams. Polyester-spandex blends combine a lightweight fabric with flexibility; flatlock construction helps keep seams smooth during grappling.
Can I add my academy’s logo and colors?
Yes. Custom rash guards can include your team logo, colors and sponsor graphics. Send your own design or share your ideas so the design can be developed for you. You can also start with a pre-made template in the 3D designer.
How do I start a custom rash guard project?
Choose a style, prepare your logo or design ideas, and decide how many pieces you need. Use the 3D designer to explore a design, or contact us for help, then request a quote.
See the 3D designer in action
Watch the demonstration to see how you can create your own rash guard design.
At RashguardsPH, we help athletes, brands and academies understand rash guards and develop their own designs.
Ready to create your own rash guard?
Choose your style, explore a design and send us your requirements.