Updated September 2026
Quick answer: For your first no-gi BJJ class, wear a fitted rash guard or athletic top with pocketless grappling shorts. Bring flip-flops, water and a towel. Avoid pockets, zippers, buttons and anything hard that can catch a finger or scrape a training partner.
If this is a free trial, you may not need to buy anything first. A fitted workout shirt and pocketless shorts are usually enough to get through class, but check the academy's dress code before you arrive. If you decide to keep training, a purpose-built rash guard and grappling shorts will fit better, stay in place and hold up longer.
The simplest first setup
One rash guard + one pair of pocketless grappling shorts. That is all you need to start no-gi. Shop complete no-gi sets.
What to Wear to Your First No-Gi BJJ Class
1. A fitted rash guard
A BJJ rash guard should fit close to the body without restricting your shoulders or breathing. The compression fit reduces loose fabric, helps manage sweat and is less likely to ride up during drilling and live rounds.
Short sleeve and long sleeve both work. Short sleeves usually feel cooler; long sleeves give more skin coverage. If you are unsure about fit, use our rash guard fit and compression guide before ordering.
2. Pocketless grappling shorts
Wear shorts made for grappling, with no open pockets, exposed zippers, hard buttons or metal hardware. A secure waistband and flexible fabric matter more than extra bulk. Nation Athletic grappling shorts use a no-Velcro construction designed to move without scratching training partners or damaging your rash guard.
3. Flip-flops or sandals
Wear footwear off the mats and take it off at the mat edge. Do not walk through bathrooms or outside barefoot and then step back onto the training area.
4. Water and a towel
Bring a water bottle and a small towel. A mouthguard is optional for most beginner classes, but many people prefer one once live sparring starts.
Choose Your First BJJ Setup
You do not need a drawer full of gear on day one. Start with one complete set you can wash after every class. These options are currently active in Nation Athletic's range and cover three useful starting points.
Best first set: Standard Issue
$85 full set. Clean black training kit with a fitted rash guard, mesh side panels and matching no-Velcro shorts.
Nation best seller: Death Cuddles
$99 full set. One of Nation's longest-running designs, paired as a complete no-gi training kit.
Customer favorite: Wu Jitsu
$99 full set. A hip-hop-inspired Nation staple for anyone who wants more personality than a plain academy kit.
Shop rash guards separately or shop grappling shorts separately if you need different top and bottom sizes. Nation sets allow you to select each size independently.
What Not to Wear to No-Gi BJJ
- Shorts with pockets: fingers and toes can catch in them.
- Zippers, buttons or metal hardware: these can scratch people and damage the mats.
- Very loose clothing: it twists, rides up and catches during grappling.
- Jewelry: remove rings, watches, necklaces, earrings and piercings where possible before training.
- Outdoor shoes on the mat: keep footwear off the training surface.
Your First-Class Checklist
- Fitted rash guard or athletic shirt
- Pocketless grappling or athletic shorts
- Flip-flops or sandals
- Water bottle
- Small towel
- Mouthguard if you prefer one
- Trimmed fingernails and toenails
Getting the Fit Right
Your rash guard should feel snug rather than painted on. It should not bunch around the waist, flap at the sleeves or restrict your shoulders. Grappling shorts should stay secure when you squat and move without hanging below the knee.
Check the Nation Athletic size charts before ordering. If the first size is not right, Nation offers free size exchanges.
First No-Gi Class FAQ
Can I wear regular gym clothes to my first BJJ class?
Usually, yes—provided the shirt is fitted and the shorts have no pockets, zippers or hard hardware. Always check the academy's rules first. Purpose-built no-gi gear becomes worthwhile once you know you plan to continue.
Do I need a gi?
Not for a no-gi class. If the schedule says “gi,” ask the academy whether it has a loaner uniform for trial students or requires you to bring one.
Should I wear a shirt under a rash guard?
No. The rash guard is the training top. Wear it directly against the skin so it can wick moisture and stay fitted.
Do I need spats?
No. Spats add leg coverage but are optional. Some academies require shorts over them, so check the local dress code.
How many rash guards do I need?
One is enough to start if you wash it immediately after every class. If you train several days per week, two or three sets make laundry easier and prevent you from reusing damp gear.
What if I am between sizes?
Use the size chart and compare your chest and waist measurements. If you prefer less compression, size up rather than choosing a loose cotton shirt.
Ready for class?
Start with a complete rash guard and shorts set built for real no-gi training. Nation Athletic gear is designed by grapplers and backed by free size exchanges.
