Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming — especially when it comes to gear. One of the most important (and often overlooked) pieces of equipment is your rashguard. For beginners, getting the right one early makes a big difference in comfort, hygiene, and confidence on the mats.
So what makes a rashguard beginner-friendly? Let’s break it down.
🤔 Why Do You Even Need a Rashguard?
A rashguard is a compression-style shirt designed to be worn during grappling. In no-gi BJJ, it’s often required. In gi class, it’s still commonly worn under the kimono to protect your skin.
For new students, rashguards help:
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Prevent mat burn and skin irritation
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Protect against skin infections like staph or ringworm
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Keep your muscles warm and sweat managed
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Promote good hygiene habits early on
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Make training more comfortable and professional
✅ What Makes the Best Rashguard for Beginners?
1. Comfortable Compression Fit
Too tight and you’ll feel restricted; too loose and it’ll ride up or get snagged. Look for something snug but breathable — with plenty of stretch.
2. Durable Material
BJJ rashguards take a beating — you’ll be sweating, twisting, and training hard. Polyester/spandex blends (like 85/15) are ideal for durability, stretch, and quick-drying comfort.
3. Flatlock Stitching
This type of stitching lies flat against your skin, preventing chafing. If you’ve ever worn an itchy t-shirt seam during a workout, you know the difference it makes.
4. Anti-Ride Waistband (Nice Bonus)
Some rashguards come with a rubber waistband to stop the shirt from riding up during scrambles. While not mandatory, it's a great feature for beginners still learning body control.
5. Simple, Clean Design
As a beginner, you don’t need to show off flashy designs. But wearing something with personality or clean branding can help you feel confident and part of the culture.
🥇 Beginner-Friendly Pick: The Divine Legion Rashguard
If you're just starting your BJJ journey and want a rashguard that checks all the boxes, we recommend the Divine Legion Rashguard.
Why it works for beginners:
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High-stretch, moisture-wicking fabric
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Long and short sleeve options
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Reinforced stitching for tough rolls
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IBJJF-legal design
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Sleek, minimal branding — no over-the-top graphics
🧼 How to Care for Your Rashguard (Especially as a Beginner)
One of the fastest ways to ruin a rashguard is to wash it like regular gym clothes. Don’t make that mistake.
Here’s how to keep yours fresh:
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✅ Wash cold after every use
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✅ Turn inside out before washing
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❌ Don’t use bleach or fabric softener
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❌ Never put it in the dryer — air dry only
This keeps the colors vibrant, the fit intact, and the stitching strong.
💡 Extra Tips for Beginners Buying a Rashguard
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Start with one or two rashguards, then add more as you train consistently
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Choose long sleeves if you want more protection from mat burn
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Look for IBJJF legality if you ever plan to compete
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Don’t cheap out — a low-quality rashguard will fall apart quickly
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Match it with spats or board shorts for full no-gi comfort
💬 Final Thoughts
Your first BJJ rashguard doesn’t need to be fancy — it just needs to work. Pick something that feels good, holds up to training, and keeps your skin safe while you learn. You’ll be focused on learning arm bars, not adjusting your shirt.
