Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a physically demanding martial art that requires freedom of movement, durability, and comfort from training gear. Among the essential pieces of apparel for female practitioners, womens Jiu Jitsu spats play a crucial role. Whether you’re a beginner stepping onto the mats for the first time or an experienced grappler refining your game, understanding what spats are, how they work, and why they matter can significantly improve your training experience.
This guide covers everything you need to know about women’s Jiu Jitsu spats, including their purpose, benefits, materials, fit, rules, and how to choose the right pair.
What Are Women’s Jiu Jitsu Spats?
Jiu Jitsu spats are tight-fitting compression leggings specifically designed for grappling sports like Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, MMA, and no-gi training. For women, these spats are tailored to accommodate body shape, flexibility needs, and comfort during intense movements such as guard retention, sweeps, submissions, and scrambles.
Unlike regular gym leggings, BJJ spats are made with durable, stretchable, and sweat-resistant fabrics that can withstand friction against mats and repeated washing.
Why Women Wear Spats in Jiu Jitsu
Spats are not just about style—they serve multiple functional purposes that directly impact performance, hygiene, and safety.
- Skin Protection
One of the biggest benefits of wearing spats is skin protection. During training, bare skin is exposed to:
- Mat burns
- Scratches
- Bacterial infections such as ringworm or staph
Spats act as a barrier between your skin and the mat, reducing direct contact and lowering the risk of skin issues.
- Improved Hygiene
Gyms are shared environments, and hygiene is a major concern in grappling sports. Spats help:
- Absorb sweat
- Reduce skin-to-mat contact
- Minimize the spread of bacteria
Many academies encourage or require spats, especially during no-gi sessions.
- Muscle Support and Compression
Women’s Jiu Jitsu spats provide compression, which helps:
- Support major muscle groups
- Improve blood circulation
- Reduce muscle fatigue during long training sessions
This compression can also aid in recovery after intense rolls.
- Freedom of Movement
High-quality spats are designed with four-way stretch fabric, allowing unrestricted movement. This is essential for:
- Hip mobility
- Guard work
- Inversions
- Explosive transitions
Unlike loose pants, spats stay in place and won’t get caught during scrambles.
Women’s Jiu Jitsu Spats vs Regular Leggings
Many beginners wonder if they can wear standard gym leggings instead of BJJ spats. While leggings may seem similar, there are important differences:
| Feature | Jiu Jitsu Spats | Regular Leggings |
| Fabric strength | High durability | Lower durability |
| Stitching | Reinforced seams | Basic seams |
| Stretch | Four-way stretch | Limited stretch |
| Sweat management | Moisture-wicking | Varies |
| Grappling use | Designed for mats | Not grappling-friendly |
Regular leggings can tear, slide down, or become see-through under pressure, while proper BJJ spats are built for intense grappling.
Materials Used in Women’s Jiu Jitsu Spats
The fabric of spats directly affects comfort and performance. Most women’s Jiu Jitsu spats are made from blends such as:
Polyester
- Durable and long-lasting
- Resistant to abrasion
- Holds shape after repeated washing
Spandex / Elastane
- Provides stretch and flexibility
- Allows tight compression fit
- Helps spats move with your body
Nylon (in some blends)
- Soft feel
- Excellent moisture control
- Lightweight yet strong
A common and effective blend is polyester with 15–20% spandex, offering the perfect balance of durability and flexibility.
Choosing the Right Fit for Women’s Jiu Jitsu Spats
Fit is one of the most important factors when selecting spats.
Compression Fit (Not Too Tight)
Spats should feel snug but not restrictive. Overly tight spats can:
- Restrict blood flow
- Cause discomfort
- Limit movement
Too loose, and they may slide down or bunch up.
Waistband Design
Look for:
- Wide elastic waistbands
- High-rise or mid-rise options
- Non-slip grip or drawstring (optional)
A good waistband ensures the spats stay in place during rolling.
Length Options
Women’s BJJ spats typically come in:
- Full length
- ¾ length (capri style)
Full-length spats are more common and often preferred for full skin coverage.
Are Women’s Jiu Jitsu Spats Allowed in Competition?
Yes, women’s Jiu Jitsu spats are widely allowed, especially in no-gi competitions. However, competition rules may vary by organization.
General guidelines include:
- Spats must not be transparent
- No zippers, pockets, or metal parts
- Clean and in good condition
Some gi competitions require spats to be worn under the gi pants, while no-gi divisions allow spats with or without shorts on top, depending on the rule set.
Always check the competition rules before competing.
Design and Style Considerations
While performance is the priority, style also matters to many female athletes.
Common Design Features
- Minimalist solid colors
- Patterned or graphic prints
- High-contrast stitching
Psychological Confidence
Wearing spats that fit well and look good can:
- Boost confidence
- Improve focus during training
- Help athletes feel comfortable on the mat
The key is choosing designs that meet gym rules and personal comfort preferences.
How to Care for Women’s Jiu Jitsu Spats
Proper care extends the life of your spats and maintains hygiene.
Washing Tips
- Wash immediately after training
- Use cold water
- Avoid fabric softeners
- Turn inside out before washing
Drying Tips
- Air dry when possible
- Avoid high heat
- Do not iron
Heat can break down elastic fibers, reducing compression and durability over time.
When Should You Replace Your Jiu Jitsu Spats?
Even high-quality spats don’t last forever. Signs it’s time to replace them include:
- Loss of compression
- Thinning fabric
- Permanent odor
- Visible tears or loose seams
Training regularly means spats experience heavy wear, so rotating multiple pairs is recommended.
Who Should Wear Women’s Jiu Jitsu Spats?
Women’s Jiu Jitsu spats are ideal for:
- Beginners learning the basics
- Advanced grapplers training daily
- No-gi athletes
- MMA and grappling practitioners
- Anyone prioritizing hygiene and comfort
They are suitable for all body types and skill levels when chosen correctly.
Final Thoughts
Women’s Jiu Jitsu spats are more than just training apparel—they are an essential part of safe, hygienic, and effective grappling. From protecting your skin and muscles to improving comfort and mobility, the right pair of spats can make a noticeable difference in your training sessions.
By understanding the purpose, materials, fit, and care of women’s Jiu Jitsu spats, you can make informed choices that support your performance on the mat and your long-term training goals.
