Best BJJ And MMA Rash Guards Proven To Last: Top Market Trending Brands Reviewed

Quick fact: Rash guards were originally worn by surfers to protect their skin from board rash and sun.

Now, rash guards are basic gear in BJJ, no-gi grappling and MMA training. The best BJJ rash guards help prevent mat burn, stay in place while you roll, and wick sweat so you stay drier.

So...

How can you find the best rash guards for BJJ, you wonder?

Well, it's not so hard. And it only gets easier since you’re reading this especially when you find out why the Fuji Baseline Ranked Rash Guard got to be my personal favorite.

I compiled some of the best rash guards for Jiu-Jitsu you can find online into this guide.

Not to worry...

Any mystery you might have on how to pick the best rash guard would be cleared on the way as well.

Let's go!

Top 8 Best BJJ And MMA Rash Guards Reviewed

1. Fuji Baseline Ranked Rash Guard - Overall Best BJJ Rash Guard

Fuji is a long-established judo and Jiu-Jitsu brand.

They are the type of brand most experienced judokas and grapplers grow up accustomed to. Their Baseline Ranked rash guard shows evidence of this rich tradition.

It's a simple, durable, anti-microbial rash guard with only a small Fuji logo atop the chest. For starters, it's the perfect option for a fighter who dislikes the trendy or flashy BJJ rash guards.

The anti-microbial fabric is sleek and of great construction. You won't find any loose seams and it's sure going to take a beating before it gives out. The Fuji graphics on the chest is also fully sublimated so you don't risk having it come off or crack after a few washes.

But sizing can be a bit tricky. It runs small and you might order a size up or two to get the right fit.

The underarm is made of soft panels that ease movement of the arms. It prevents the usual cramping we've seen around the armpit of many rash guards and shirts.

Pros

• High-quality fabric
• Antimicrobial
• Affordable
• Simple, minimalist design
• IBJJF certified colors
• Stretchy

Cons

• Runs a little small

Takeaway

The Fuji Baseline Ranked is a great option for a regular fighter with minimalist taste in design.

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2. Gold BJJ Jiu-Jitsu Rash Guard - Best Rash Guard for MMA

Gold BJJ is another reputable BJJ brand with a quality lineup of products. Also worth mentioning is that they sell BJJ soaps that help fighters stay clean and fresh on the mat.

To the order of the day, the Gold BJJ Camo rash guard is made especially for no-gi. The camo pattern across the arm is fully sublimated. It’s also used to crest Gold's logo to the chest.

This rash guard is available in either long sleeve or short sleeve with either a black or white torso. Speaking of which, the torso has a slightly extended trim that would prevent inconvenient roll-ups.

Even better, its stitching is smooth and tailor-perfect. There haven't been complaints of it coming loose or ripping easily. If that ever happens, they have a great customer care service that makes returns easy.

Not to forget, it has mesh underarms which is a great feature. It allows some breathability

As regards its sizing, it's almost true to size. The arms would fit folks with long limbs but un-matching weight who have to order small. If you're thickset, you may have to order a size up.

Pros

• Supreme fabric quality
• Good bang for your buck
• Mesh armpits for breathability
• Snug fit and perfect for tall guys
• Available in white and black

Cons

• Not the most affordable option
• Limited color options for IBJJF tournaments

Takeaway

It's the perfect rash guard for no-gi Jiu-Jitsu training, but not so great for competitions.

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3. Hayabusa Metaru Rash Guard - Deluxe Rash Guard for BJJ

The Hayabusa Metaru is easily one of the best rash guards for BJJ. And maybe even the best, if it were a little cheaper.

Hardly would you find a fighter who wouldn't like Metaru's aesthetics. It's not only the simple yet classy graphics and logo emblazoned over the shirt. But the fabric itself is also something of an eye-pleaser.

And it's no surprise. The shirt is made with a unique combo of elastane and polyesters. What's more, it has a silicone banding on the hem that lets the rash guard stay firm during rolls.

Perhaps a possible deal-breaker is its tight compression fit. It keeps the shirt in place, but don't count on compression to boost your performance; the evidence for that is mixed.

On the downside, it can easily become too tight with a slight mistake in sizing. So you may have to order two sizes up if you don't want a body-hugging fit. And keep the tag on in case you have to return it.

With that said, it's a remarkable rash guard for both training and competition, with ranked color options for different belts.

Pros

• Stays in place during rolls
• Astonishing aesthetics
• Durable
• Branded silicone at the hem to prevent roll-ups

Cons

• Expensive
• Runs small

Takeaway

If you're in search of a high-end rash guard for BJJ or MMA training and competitions, Hayabusa Metaru would serve you for years to come.

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4. Tatami Fightwear Gentle Panda - Best Animated Rash Guard for BJJ

Tatami is a powerhouse MMA brand, particularly for its stylish, animated rash guards.

Aside from the plethora of eye-catching designs in their inventory, they're also known to last long. This sets them apart from knock-off brands with designs that chip off after a few washes even after claiming it’s “fully sublimated”.

Tatami simply says it's made with "the usual high-quality material." Put simply, it's made of hard-wearing polyester and spandex.

The gentle panda design depicts a Jiu-Jitsu panda attacked by voracious little monkeys. But they are no match for him as he sits unruffled, and chewing on a bamboo stick.

Tatami seems to have a more accurate fit than most other brands in this review. Perhaps because the sleeves of the rashie are wide, so it won't restrict the arm as long as you’re in the right weight category.

Pros

• Long-lasting fabric
• Artwork won’t wear easily
• Relatively thicker fabric
• Wide sleeves

Cons

• It's pricey

Takeaway

For anyone that loves artful designs on their shirts, the Gentle Panda rash from Tatami might be all you need.

The artistic animation with its superior quality would justify your investment in the long run.

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5. Sanabul Essentials Rash Guard - Best Low-Priced BJJ Rash Guard

Sanabul Essentials is another reputable brand, but one known for their affordable merchandise. It's one of the cheapest quality BJJ rash guards you can find in IBJJF-compliant ranked colors. (The IBJJF sets color rules; it doesn't certify brands.)

This rash guard would be better suited for beginners and for wearing under a gi. Simply put, the build may not hold up to tough use.

As always, Sanabul offers features that make "yes" the only option for its price. First off, the rashie has an oversized mesh (ventilated) underarm.

Also, you can pick from a plethora of colors that match your belt ranking for competitions. Sanabul also lists UV protection, so you can wear it at the beach like the original surf rashies.

Pros

• Inexpensive option
• Ranked colors that fit IBJJF rules
• Long and short sleeve option
• Popular choice

Cons

• Not durable enough for intense use (pros and semi-pros)

Takeaway

If you are looking for a simple, cheap rashie to start BJJ, this one fits the bill.

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6. Quiksilver All Time Rashguard - Most Versatile

For the cool dudes that hit the dojo during the week and surf on weekends, an amphibious rash guard would be nice.

And I can't think of a better option than the All Time rashie from Quiksilver from the well-known surf apparel brand.

Right off the bat, you can tell it's polyester material that would hold up to countless hardcore grappling sessions.

The bold look of the colors and logo on the fabric sits well in a group of surfers or BJJ fighters. Of course, with a slight edge on the surfing side. It has UV protection to prevent sunburn when you are out on the beach instead of grappling.

It's lightweight so movement is unhindered when it's soaked in sweat or saltwater. Even better, it dries fast.

In short, it's sweat-wicking feature is phenomenal.

On the other hand, it's truer to size than most BJJ rash guards I've come across. But go a size up if you prefer a loose-fitting form.

The only downside I've seen is it keeps stains. And this can be a nightmare in every type of MMA for obvious reasons. So I'd recommend going for the all-black color option.

Pros

• Amphibious rashie for fighting, surfing, and snorkeling
• Sun protection
• Fast sweat-wicking
• Lasts long

Cons

• Some complaints about loose stitching
• Keeps stains

Takeaway

This is easily the best MMA rash guard you can also wear to the beach, in the waves, or snorkeling under the ocean. There may be better options, but the value and price hit a sweet spot.

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7. Venum Gladiator 3.0 Rash Guard - Most Impressively Designed

Venum is another leading MMA apparel and accessories brand based out of France.

Their Gladiator 3.0 rashie is a popular line from their impressive collection that honors fallen Roman gladiators. So, you better be ready to live up to its name.

Its stretchy, tough polyester fabric has an athletic cut that accentuates the muscles. Venum markets its "compression technology" for circulation and recovery, but the evidence that compression wear improves either is mixed.

What you do get is a snug fit and fabric that wicks and dries sweat fast.

As you'd expect from a premium BJJ rash guard, the design print is fully sublimated. So it won't peel off or crack after a few washes.

Lastly, a silicone band at the end of the shirt helps give a tighter fit. In short, you can expect not to have your belly out while sparring. But it won't work effectively if you don't have the right size.

If you're thickset or muscular, you may have to go two sizes up to get a good fit.

Pros

• Thick, long-lasting fabric
• Design won't peel or crack in a long time
• Inner waistband prevents slip-ups
• Superb stitching workmanship

Cons

• Expensive

Takeaway

This is another impressively designed rash guard for folks who love the trend. It's sure to last, functional, and comes at a price you must pay to enjoy the best.

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8. Fanii Quare Training Rash Guard - Cheapest Option

As much as I don't like the cheap rash guards, I can make an exception with this Fanii Quare rash guard (compression shirt).

First off, it's not as durable as the big name brands or others in this review. But the soft fabric is comfy and dries fast after it’s soaked in sweat.

Still, it's not soft in a way that it'd tear easily while rolling.

On the bright side, you have a bunch of designs to pick from.

Only thing is, it bleeds and would only last maybe a few months.

Somehow, you get a truer to size fit - better than many expensive rash guards. One advice: still go a size up just to be sure.

Pros

• Dirt cheap
• Over thirty designs available
• Soft and light fabric
• Dries fast

Cons

• Color bleeds
• Can only be hand washed

Takeaway

This is a cheap rash guard, no doubt, and I'll only recommend it to anyone who wants lots of design options on a tight budget.

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Why Wear A Rash Guard For BJJ Or MMA?

It's easy to throw on an old t-shirt rather than make the leap to buy a rash guard. I've seen some BJJ guys train for almost a decade before getting their first rash guard. Then beam with satisfaction and surprise like they never knew about it.

Since you are here, you should know what you can gain from wearing a rash over your old t-shirts for training.

Spoiler alert: it won’t give a metaphysical boost to your skills. Now, if we talk about shoes and it is one of the best shoes for MMA training, then definitely, it'll make a difference to your performance.

No Roll-Ups

Imagine pulling down your shirt every time you make a move because it keeps riding up your belly.

Trust me, it’s annoying. A shirt that rides up also leaves more skin in contact with your partner and the mat.

Skin infections such as MRSA, ringworm and herpes gladiatorum spread in grappling sports through skin contact and shared gear. A rash guard reduces exposed skin, but it's no substitute for hygiene.

But when you tuck in or wear a quality rash guard, it's stretch and longer waist resists the constant pull. Essentially, it’s much more comfortable.

Enjoy Animated Graphics

BJJ and MMA rash guards are known for their animative, flashy graphics. I've heard a guy in the gym say the imposing gorilla imprinted on the chest of his rash guard makes him feel "good" about himself.

Of course, you may not be that guy, and just have a thing for the design on rashies. Plus, the hugging fit of a rash guard makes animations surreal.

Moisture Wicking

In an intense grappling session, it won’t be long before a gi gets soaked. Sometimes, the sweat leaves a hanging odor on the gi that would make you uncomfortable.

A moisture-wicking rash guard would soak it up and dry soon enough. When you wear a t-shirt under your gi, you'd still have sweat pouring down your body.

This can make your arms too slippery to pull off submission moves. Or irritating, to you or your opponent to have a sweat-slapped face.

Keep it hygienic, too. The CDC advises athletes to shower right after training, wash and fully dry uniforms after each use, cover cuts, and never share towels or clothing.

Factors To Consider While Choosing The Best Rashguard For BJJ And MMA

Brand Does Matter

It’s easy to fall prey to knock-off brands that would entice you with insanely cheap prices. But you don't have to splurge either to get a quality rash guard.

Skimping can be the worst decision you'd make. If you're unlucky, the rash guard could come loose or have its logo come off on the first wash. Otherwise, you may get away with only dye bleeding on your gi or the dojo mat.

Name brands are usually up to the mark, though some are quite overpriced.

A rash guard from a reputable brand should hold up to regular training for a long time, and you don't need the most expensive model to get one.

Some of the notable brands are Venum, UA, Manto, Rupture, Fuji, Nike, Cageside, the Hayabusa long sleeve rashguard, and many more. You'd also find more valuable options in the product recommendations as well.

Training and Competition Openings

Rashies are known to have so many amazing graphics and animations. If you want to feel like a fierce silverback gorilla or a gladiator from the Roman empire, you’d be covered.

However, the design you wear in competitions is limited to its compatibility with IBJJF rules, but you can wear anything you like on training days.

For IBJJF no-gi events, the rash guard must be black, white, or black and white, with at least 10% of the fabric/design in your belt color (or be entirely your belt color).

Arms Length

Rash guards are either short or long-sleeved. Personally, I prefer the long-sleeved ones, especially for no-gi BJJ. It covers the arm up to the wrists, which means less bare skin against the mat and your partner.

Short sleeves, on the other hand, aren't exactly "bad." In fact, I'll recommend getting both. Wearing a long-sleeved rash guard on some hot summer days can quickly become uncomfortable.

All in all, it depends on what you prefer.

Choosing The Right Fit

Sizing is one place the reputation of the brand matters. Are their rash guards true to size? Will they accept returns if they don’t fit?

It’s not uncommon to have a rash guard delivered in a smaller size than you imagined. But known brands would accept returns and offer responsive customer service.

With a bit of research from reviews, observe if their rashies generally have a loose or tight fit. This way, you can pick based on your body type. For instance, if you're short and robust, or tall and lanky.

Depending on which size you are, you can decide if you have to order size, up or down. When in doubt, check the brand's size chart against your chest and height measurements.

Now after I've said everything in this review, let's go watch on video what the real thing looks like, in visual details.

https://youtu.be/MPtfBZHeQYI

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Wrapping Up

Found the best MMA rash guard for training or competition yet?

Decide what arm length you want. Ask yourself if you'd prefer rolling in a plain or animated rashie. More importantly, does it suit your budget?

If you’re still undecided, try the Fuji Baseline Ranked rash guard. It's a plain, hard-wearing, and affordable rashie. The long sleeves also mean less bare skin on the mat.

Sources

• Uniform, International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF)
• Athletes: MRSA Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention