What Should My Kid Wear to Class?

A Friendly Guide to Gi, No-Gi, and keeping your little one comfy.

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I know some of you may be like, “Why is this even a topic to write about?” But honestly, you’d be surprised. At Little Dojo Buddies, we do not shame or make someone feel embarrassed for asking questions—in fact, we encourage them. So let’s dive in!

Your child is starting their first class. Great! Wait… what should they wear?

Your little one will be rolling around on the mats doing all types of exercises, drills, and games—sometimes solo, sometimes with a partner. So we want to make sure they’re both comfortable and clean.

Gi vs. No-Gi

First let’s break down the two most common types of training gear:

Gi: This is the traditional and recognizable uniform seen in martial arts. It looks kind of like a kimono, but it’s made from heavy cotton to handle all the pulling, grabbing, and rolling around. As my kid used to say, “Daddy, they look like pajamas.” Then, “Ooo, like a ninja!”

No-Gi: Just as it sounds—no gi. Instead of the uniform, you’ll see people wearing compression-type gear: shorts and/or leggings paired with a rash guard (an athletic shirt).

Why are there two versions?

Gi training is the traditional way. These classes use the gi itself as part of the techniques—like grabbing sleeves, collars, or pant legs to control your partner. Different martial arts have slightly different styles of gi. For example:

A BJJ gi is cut slimmer so it doesn’t bunch up when rolling.

A Judo gi is heavier and looser to withstand strong throws.

A Karate gi is lighter, since striking arts don’t need the same durability.

But that’s more detail for another blog!

No-Gi training is grappling without the uniform to grip, so think more like wrestling. With the rise of MMA, No-Gi has become super popular because it looks similar to what you see in professional fights. In jiu-jitsu competitions, there are both Gi and No-Gi divisions, so kids often get exposure to both over time.

Comfort and Safety First

Gi gear:

• Sizing can be tricky, even for adults. Different brands fit differently, so always check the brand’s size chart.

• You don’t need to drop $150 on a kids’ gi—there are plenty of affordable options out there. (And let’s be real, they grow fast!)

• A simple, well-fitting gi will do just fine for starting out.

  • *Note Under the Gi, a rash guard is also worn along with leggings or compression undergarments.

No-Gi gear:

• Rash guards are a must. They’re tight-fitting shirts that prevent skin burns from the mats and keep things more hygienic.

• Pair the rash guard with shorts or leggings. Make sure they don’t have zippers or pockets—those can scratch or snag during training.

• Avoid sending your child in regular T-shirts, tank tops, or... believe it or not, jeans (yes, we’ve seen it happen!). Those aren’t safe or comfortable for martial arts and they can actually ruin the mats.

Quick Tips for Parents

• Ask the coach: Some gyms have sample uniforms or have specific requirements, so always check first. Again, any great instructor will gladly help you and answer questions.

• Think hygiene: Clean gear = happy teammates. Wash the gi or rash gear after every class.

  • Important about Gi's - DO NOT dry them in the dryer, they will shrink. Hang dry is the best way method.

• Shoes off, socks off: Martial arts are almost always barefoot on the mats, so no need for fancy footwear.

  • Do not walk on the mats with shoes or step off the mats barefooted. We want to keep the mats clean.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the goal is to keep kids comfortable, safe, and excited to learn. Whether it’s Gi or No-Gi, martial arts uniforms help them feel part of the class while giving them the right gear to move, train, and have fun.

Remember: no shame, only learning. Every parent and child starts somewhere and now you know exactly what your little warrior should wear for class. As always, any questions, we're here to help best we can!