Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu involves a lot of skin-to-skin and skin-to-mat contact. As a result, chafing, abrasions, mat burns, and skin infections are commonplace in this combat sport. Many BJJ players choose to protect themselves by investing in rash guards, which reduce friction, provide compression, and wick away sweat for better performance; but what are they made of?
BJJ rash guards are made from various fabrics, including nylon/spandex blends, polyester, Lycra, and neoprene. Each material offers its own level of comfort, stretch, breathability, and moisture-wicking action. They work by creating a barrier between your skin and your opponent’s, as well as the mat.
Though some BJJ players choose to wear rash guards under their gi, they are most common in no-gi jiu-jitsu. Since rash guards fit tight to the skin it is less likely that a BJJ player will get their fingers or toes stuck in their rolling partner’s clothing. This is why you should never wear a loose-fitting t-shirt to no-gi BJJ class. It could easily result in getting someone’s finger sprained or broken.
Understanding the different fabrics used to make BJJ rashguards will help you determine which material is suitable for you. Read on to learn more about rashguard fabrics and how they’ll help you during BJJ.
What BJJ Rash Guards Are Made Of And Why It Is Important
During BJJ grappling sessions, opponents practice a wide range of techniques, from joint holds to takedowns. There is a lot of movement and physical contact, so it’s vital that the skin is protected.
Rashguards are made of smooth fabrics and protect the skin from chafing, cuts, scrapes, abrasions, burns, and infections like staph and ringworm. These athletic shirts were initially designed for surfers but have seen increased popularity among martial artists, including those who practice BJJ.
Rashguards essentially create a barrier between you and your opponent’s skin and between you and the mat. Beginners are often under the impression that a gi provides enough protection during BJJ matchups. However, the sturdy canvas fabric creates friction which can cause abrasions when rolling. Wearing a rashguard under a gi smooths things out and prevents friction burns.
In the following section, we’ll take a look at the different types of fabrics for rashguards.
What Type Of Fabric Are BJJ Rash Guards Made Of?
Most rashguards are composed of a synthetic blend of fibers, and each combination of materials has its own characteristics. Some rashguards are even treated with antimicrobial and antifungal agents to protect your skin further during BJJ grappling sessions.
Below are some of the most popular fabrics for rashguards.
Nylon-Spandex
Nylon-spandex blends offer stretch, breathability, and a tight fit. Despite the tightness, nylon spandex is considered superior to other rashguard fabrics because of its comfort and quick-drying abilities.
In addition, nylon-spandex blends resist shrinking and quickly regain their shape, thanks to their elasticity.
Polyester
Some BJJ fighters find nylon-spandex to be too tight and restrictive, so they opt for polyester instead.
Polyester is an excellent substitute for nylon spandex and provides similar benefits. This fabric is breathable, moisture-wicking, and water-resistant. It does not, however, offer the same level of stretch and flexibility as spandex blends.
Polyester is the most popular fabric used for performance and activewear and is relatively inexpensive.
Lycra
Lycra fiber and spandex are the same things; Lycra is simply a brand of spandex. Rashguards made of Lycra are very durable, prevent chafing, dry quickly, are breathable, and provide extreme stretch. However, the more Lycra a rashguard contains, the more expensive it will be.
Neoprene
Neoprene rashguards were designed for surfers to keep them warm in cool waters. Neoprene is made of synthetic rubbers that stretch and allow for freedom of movement.
However, it’s not a popular choice among BJJ fighters because it traps in heat. While a neoprene rashguard is better than no rashguard, it’s bound to get uncomfortable.
What To Look For in a Rashguard
Material is important, but there are other things to look for when choosing a rashguard for BJJ. The following characteristics are indicative of a higher-quality rashguard:
- Double-stitching – Quality rashguards will have at least a double-stitch at the seams. The best rashguards will have anywhere from three to five stitches.
- Extra threads – Whenever possible, opt for a rashguard that has more threads. The more threads, the stronger the hold—and a stronghold is necessary for combat.
- Flatlock seams – Standard overlock seams rub against the skin, creating friction and, as a result, discomfort. Flatlock seams are stitched on top of one another, allowing the seam to lie flat against the skin. These are ideal for BJJ rashguards, as they reduce chafing and friction burns.
- Weighty material – Your rashguard doesn’t have to be super heavy, but it should have some noticeable weight to it. Thin, flimsy rashguards put you at a disadvantage because they’re easily grabbed onto and stretched during grappling sessions.
- Tight fit – Rashguards should fit pretty tightly and should feel almost like a second skin without being restrictive or constrictive. If it fits tight but feels uncomfortable, you might need to go up a size or opt for a stretchier material.
- Raglan sleeves – Set-in sleeves are acceptable but may create friction under the arms. Raglan sleeves are recommended to provide more space at the armpits, which allow for better flexibility and movement.
Conclusion
Each BJJ rashguard fabric offers its own levels of stretch, breathability, comfort, and moisture-wicking ability. Try out different fabrics during grappling sessions so you can see what fits right for your needs. Take note of how the material feels on your body, how your skin fares during rolling, and your comfort level.
The final decision should be based on what feels most comfortable to you.