The Best Gis For Short, Stocky, Or Muscular BJJ Athletes

Finding a gi that fits seems like it should be easy based on the measurements listed on many BJJ and MMA retailer websites, but short and stocky jiu-jitsu athletes know that this is often easier said than done. 

Jiu-jitsu athletes that are wider or more muscular often find that their gis are tight around areas like the shoulders, chest, thighs, and glutes. This can restrict movement, cause discomfort, and even cause the gi to rip. While some BJJ students and coaches are able to simply order a size up and see their problem fixed, many others then end up with a gi that’s way too long… and still too tight. 

The best solution for thicker BJJ practitioners is to purchase a jiu-jitsu gi that accommodates their stocky stature, and we’re here to help. Here are five of the best gi brands for grapplers who need a little more room to grow. And of course, if you have the opposite problem when searching for gis, make sure you check out our recommendations for the best gis for skinnier and leaner athletes. 

1. 93 Brand

With a wide variety of fits (including “classic,” “long,” “husky,” and “fitted”), 93 Brand gis offer a sigh of relief to anyone who’s been hoping for a gi that accommodates their wider size. There aren’t quite as many selections in the “husky” sizes as there are in their traditional gi sizes, but they still have wider fits from athletes ranging from 5’2” to 6’1”. They also have gis that are specifically sized for women, helping jiu-jitsu practitioners who struggle to find gi pants that fit over wider hips. There are slight sizing variations between their standard and premium gis, so make sure you check which one you’re ordering before you choose your size.

Standard Issue “Husky” Sizing:
A0H: 5'2″-5'7″ 155-180 lbs
A2H: 5'6″-5'11” 210-240 lbs
A3H: 5'10”-6'1″ 215-245 lbs

Premium Gi “Husky” Sizing:

A0H: 5'3″-5'7″ 160-185 lbs

A2H: 5'8″-6'1″ 215-250 lbs

A3H: 5'10”-6'2″ 220-255 lbs

You can order your own 93 Brand gi here.

2. Hyperfly

Hyperfly has a reputation for making gis that look as good as they feel. Thankfully, you can still wear their gis even if you’re on the short side, too. Hyperfly’s sizing chart includes “short” options that offer the same width as their equivalent-size counterparts, but with a bit of length taken off the pant legs and jacket sleeves. Specific measurements guidelines will also help ensure that you’re buying a size that’s well-tailored to your body type.

Purchase your own Hyperfly gi here.

3. Shoyoroll

Shoyoroll is known for being a more high-end gi brand, but a large number of happy customers have proven that you do get what you pay for. These gis are known for their great fit, long-lasting durability, and comfort. With their diverse sizing, you can also enjoy your own Shoyoroll gi even if you have a bit more width to work with. As with 93 Brand, this company also features “husky” sizes that accommodate grapplers who need a bit more room to roll, as well as longer and “fitted” sizes.

Buy your own Shoyoroll gi here. 

4. Fenom

Fenom is perhaps one of the most celebrated brands that makes gis specifically for women, and it’s easy to see why. Not only are the gis very aesthetically pleasing and fitted to the female form, but they also sell “curvy” sizes. And, if you need some extra room in the pants, but not in the jacket, you can order a standard-sized jacket with “curvy” pants. Whether you’re tall, short, slim, or curvy, Fenom has you covered.

A0 4'10” – 5'1” 85-115 lbs
A1 5'2” – 5'5” 115-130 lbs
A1 Curvy 5'3” – 5'5” up to 155 lbs
A1 Tall 5'6”- 5'9” 115-130 lbs
A2 5'6” – 5'9” 130-165 lbs
A2 Tall 5'9” – 5'11” 140-160 lbs
A2 Curvy 5'6” – 5'9” up to 180 lbs
A4 5'6″ – 5'9″ 190-220 lbs
A5 6'1″ – 6'3” up to 255 lbs

Buy your own Fenom gi here.

5. Inverted Gear

Although Inverted Gear only has one “husky” size available (designed for A2 athletes), their large size range means that anyone between 4’8” and 6’6” can probably find a gi that suits their build. This family-owned brand is also known for having great customer service, and any issues or inquiries you have about which gi would best suit you will likely be taken care of quickly and efficiently. Inverted Gear has one of the most loyal customer bases of all the gi companies out there, so you can rest assured that your needs as a shorter or stockier grappler will be taken care of. 

You can buy an Inverted Gear gi for yourself here.

6. Gorilla Fight Gear

If you’re in an upper weight class and struggle to find a gi that’s big enough for you, Gorilla is the right brand for you. While this company does carry standard gi sizes, they have a clear focus on larger jiu-jitsu athletes, with sizes that fit people up to 6’6” and 420lbs. Their stitching is also well-reinforced, so you don’t have to worry about ripping your gi as you squat or flex.

Buy your own Gorilla gi here.

In short…

Being on the thicker side in a world where gis are made for taller, slimmer athletes is tough, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find a gi that works for you. This is by no means an exhaustive list, and if you have a favorite gi brand, check their size charts to see if they offer alternative sizing for people who are built like you. If not, shoot them an email and express your interest! The higher the demand, the more likely it is that your favorite brand will begin offering gis that are more suited to athletes with a wider build. 

Looking for a specific gi review?  Check out our reviews here.

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON SEPTEMBER 7, 2011.  Updated October 2020