How to Choose a Women's BJJ Rashguard

Why Your Rashguard Choice Matters on the Mat

If you train jiu-jitsu, you’re probably going to end up owning more rashguards than you originally planned. It happens.

But beyond finding a design you love, there are a few things worth paying attention to when you’re shopping for a rashguard — especially when you want something that actually feels good to train in. Here’s what we look for.

Start With the Fabric

Most rashguards are made from a polyester and spandex blend, which gives you the stretch you need to move while helping the fabric hold its shape.

For grappling, you want something stretchy enough that it moves with you without feeling flimsy or becoming loose halfway through class. Sublimated designs are also a big plus because the artwork is dyed into the fabric rather than printed on top, so you don’t have to worry about graphics cracking or peeling over time.

Find a Fit You Actually Like Training In

This one is more personal than people make it sound.

Some women love a true compression fit. Others want a little more room through the chest or midsection. Neither is wrong. What matters is that your rashguard stays in place while you’re moving and doesn’t restrict you.

Pay attention to the brand’s size chart instead of automatically ordering your normal T-shirt size. Rashguard sizing can vary quite a bit from one brand to another.

And if you’re between sizes, think about how you prefer your gear to fit. Size down for more compression or up if you prefer a little more room.

Short Sleeve or Long Sleeve?

There really isn’t a right answer here either.

Long sleeves give you more coverage between your skin and the mats, which some people love. Short sleeves tend to feel cooler and are an easy everyday option, especially in warmer gyms.

A lot of us end up owning both and grabbing whichever one sounds better that day.

If you're looking for an everyday option, you can browse our Short Sleeve Rashguards.

Pay Attention to the Little Details

A rashguard can look great online and still be annoying once you actually start rolling in it.

Seams, stretch, waistband construction and overall cut all make a difference. You want seams that feel comfortable against your skin and a fit that stays put through drilling, wrestling and live rounds.

Those details may not be the exciting part of buying new gear, but you'll definitely notice them when they're wrong.

And Yes, You’re Allowed to Care About the Design

Function matters, but you also have to actually like wearing the thing.

That’s a big part of why Grapple Like a Girl exists. Women’s grappling gear doesn’t have to feel like an afterthought or like the smaller version of something designed for men.

We like gear with some personality.

If that sounds like you, a few GLG favorites include:

And if you have a younger grappler in your life, we also have Youth Rashguards.

Take Care of Your Rashguards

Grappling gear takes enough abuse on the mats. Your washing machine doesn’t need to add to it.

Wash your rashguards in cold water, skip the fabric softener and air dry them whenever possible. It’s also a good idea to get sweaty gear out of your gym bag and into the wash sooner rather than later.

Basically: don't leave Saturday morning's rashguard marinating in your gym bag until Monday. We've all been there. Don't do it.

Find What Works for You

There’s no single “best” rashguard for every woman who trains. Bodies are different, fit preferences are different, and what feels great to one person might drive someone else crazy.

Look for something that fits well, moves with you, stays where it’s supposed to and makes you feel good when you put it on.

You can shop our full collection of women's BJJ rashguards and find the one that feels like you.

Ready to Find Your Rashguard?

The right rashguard keeps you protected, comfortable, and confident on the mat. Shop our full collection of women's BJJ rashguards — designed by grapplers, for grapplers.

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