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Whenever a brand sends us a tech pack, the first number we look at is the GSM. In simple factory terms, it tells us exactly how dense and heavy the fabric roll is going to be.

1. Pearl Weave (The Industry Standard)

   Most Gi jackets utilize pearl weave, which features tiny "pearl" bumps that increase surface area—enhancing heat release and drying efficiency.

   Shrinkage Rate: Approximately 3% - 5%.

   Best For: All practitioners. It is the reliable workhorse of the BJJ world, suitable for beginners and advanced athletes alike.

2. Twill (The Classic Comfort)

   Twill is typically used for Gi pants, characterized by its diagonal lines and a softer feel compared to standard canvas.

   Shrinkage Rate: High, around 5% - 8%.

   Best For: Practitioners who prioritize a soft, traditional feel during training.

3. Ripstop (The Tactical Choice)

   Ripstop is easily identified by its square grid pattern and is typically a cotton-polyester (CVC) blend for enhanced durability.

   Shrinkage Rate: Very low, about 1% - 3%.

   Best For: Hot climates and competition—its thin, slippery texture makes it difficult for opponents to grip.

Let us share a factory secret with you. When you see a tag that says "100% Pre-Shrunk," that’s not entirely accurate.

In our factory, "pre-shrinking" means we run massive rolls of fabric through an industrial washing and steaming process before cutting patterns. We do this to eliminate the bulk of potential shrinkage. However, we only shrink the fabric by approximately 99%.

Because of this, it is perfectly normal for the Gis we manufacture to have a residual shrinkage rate of +/- 1%. If we attempted to shrink the cotton 100% before cutting, the fabric would become so stiff and dense that our cutting machines would struggle to slice through it—and the Gi would feel like stiff cardboard when you first put it on. Therefore, every Gi will still shrink a tiny bit during the first few washes—a range of 1% to -1% is standard and normal.

Shrinkage is essentially cotton fibers contracting when exposed to heat or mechanical tumbling in a washing machine. You have total control over how your Gi fits. Here is our advice for BJJ practitioners:

Wash in COLD water and hang dry in the shade. This is the best way to keep the Gi at the exact size it was when you purchased it.

If the Gi is just a little too baggy, wash it in warm water and use a dryer on LOW heat. Check it every 10 minutes. Once it fits perfectly, stop the dryer and hang it up to finish drying.

Wash in hot water and use a dryer on HIGH heat.

WARNING: Do this at your own risk. High heat can cause the rubber or EVA foam inside the collar to warp and curl—what we call "Bacon Collar." It also destroys the integrity of the stitching and significantly shortens the lifespan of the Gi.

When buying a Gi, look past the patches and focus on the specifications. If you want a Gi that fits like a glove and lasts for years, understand the GSM, know your weave, and respect the wash cycle. We build our Gis tough, but how you care for them through washing determines how they age.