Hey Everyone! We are back again with another gear review, this time we got our hands on the Tatami Elements Superlite BJJ Gi.
As always, we review with a scale that we use internally known as the Graveyard Scale (here) this is a scale that we use to help us rate the gear that we get our hands on from 1 – 10. For BJJ Gis, our main review criteria are: Fit & Comfort, Mobility & Weight, Shrinkage & Maintenance, Durability & Construction, and Price/Value.
Overall, we are pleasantly surprised with how this gi feels, both from a quality standpoint and a weight standpoint.
My biggest pet peeve is ordering a “lightweight” gi that actually doesn’t live up to the name. This gi sits at 300 GSM, still relatively heavier than the Gold BJJ Lightweight Gi (180 GSM), but it feels very similar on the body. Overall, there is not that big of a difference between the Gold BJJ weight and the Tatami weight, but what this gi does stand out on is its comfort.
Reminder: We are on a mission to help people find the best combat sports gear across categories. Our goal is to review a list that consists of 8 to 12 more Gis and share our thoughts to the following Reddit communities r/fightgear, r/grapplersgraveyard, r/bjj and r/jiujitsu.
Overview of the Tatami Superlite BJJ Gi
Overall, the Tatami Superlite BJJ Gi is a very high-quality gi that surprised us with how comfortable it feels during training. On paper, the 300 GSM pearl weave jacket is slightly heavier than something like the Gold BJJ Lightweight Gi, but in practice it still feels incredibly light on the body. The gi breathes well and remains comfortable even during longer sessions in hotter training environments. For grapplers looking to train in a lightweight gi without spending a premium, the Superlite is a solid option that balances comfort, durability, and affordability.
The only downside to the experience came from purchasing directly through Tatami’s website. At the time of ordering, it could only be bought through their store, and the added tariff-related fees being passed down to consumers was a bit frustrating. I bought both this Gi and a Tatami Pro Series Gi, both of which were marketed for $55 or $60 and I thought I was getting a steal… this was the total.
Video Review: coming soon
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Lighter weight gi claims match the product
- Cool and sleek design
- Feels high quality on the body
Cons
- I hated that the gi was advertised as $55 on their site and that I had to pay $29.99 in tariff fees (first time that has ever happened)
- Runs a little big
- Could not buy on Amazon (only from their site)
Fit & Comfort (2/2)
For sizing, I ordered an A2, and for reference I’m 5’9″ and 185 lbs. Out of the package, the gi did run slightly larger than expected. I typically rotate between an A1L and A2, but these days I mostly train in A2. The slightly larger fit didn’t bother me much, though, because after the first wash it shrinks a bit and ends up fitting closer to true to size.
During training, the gi never felt restrictive. Even during longer rolling sessions—especially in our newer gym where the temperature runs hotter—it stayed comfortable and breathable. The collar is on the thinner side, which gives it a softer, lighter feel compared to some thicker collars. Overall, the gi feels soft on the skin and breaks in quickly without any stiffness or mobility issues.
Quick Takeaways
- Runs slightly large out of the box but shrinks closer to true-to-size after the first wash.
- Soft, lightweight feel with a thinner collar that stays comfortable during long rolling sessions.
Mobility & Weight (2/2)
One of the biggest concerns with any lightweight gi is whether it actually feels light while training. On paper, the Tatami Superlite comes in at 300 GSM, which is technically heavier than some ultra-light options like the Gold BJJ Lightweight Gi. However, once you’re on the mats, it doesn’t feel heavy at all.
During rolling, the gi never felt restrictive or bulky. Movement felt natural whether scrambling, passing, or working through longer rounds. Even in hotter training sessions, the gi maintained a lightweight feel and didn’t weigh me down as the session went on.
While the specs may suggest it sits slightly heavier than some competitors, the real-world feel is still very much in line with what you’d expect from a lightweight training gi.
Quick Takeaways
- Despite the 300 GSM weight, the gi still feels lightweight and mobile during live rolling.
- Movement stays natural with no noticeable restriction during longer training sessions.
Shrinkage & Maintenance (2/2)
For washing, I kept it simple and stuck with my usual routine: cold wash and air dry. After the first wash, I honestly didn’t see much shrinkage at all. The jacket still runs a little long on me and almost reaches my knuckles when my arms are down, so if anything it still fits slightly on the larger side even after that first wash.
The overall cut stayed pretty much the same. The pants were in the same situation—no major change in length or fit after washing. At this point I’ve run the gi through multiple washes and air dries, and it’s held up really well. I haven’t noticed any fading, fabric wear, or loose stitching so far, which is always something I keep an eye on with newer gis.
Quick Takeaways
- Very little shrinkage after multiple cold washes and air drying.
- The cut and construction have stayed consistent with no fading or stitching issues so far.
Durability & Construction (2/2)
It’s still early to make a definitive call here since I’ve only been training in this gi for about a week, but the overall construction feels solid so far.
The stitching throughout the jacket and pants looks clean and reinforced in the areas that usually take the most stress during training. The collar is on the thinner side compared to some thicker competition gis, but it still feels sturdy enough to hold up during grips and general wear.
After several training sessions and washes, I haven’t noticed any loose stitching, fraying, or issues with the patches or logos starting to peel. So while long-term durability will reveal itself over time, the gi gives a strong first impression in terms of build quality.
Quick Takeaways
- Clean stitching and reinforced construction give the gi a strong initial durability impression.
- No signs of fraying, loose threads, or peeling patches after the first week of training and washing.
Price & Value (1.2/2)
When it comes to value, I do think the Tatami Superlite Gi is worth the price for what you get. The comfort, lightweight feel, and overall build quality make it a solid option for everyday training, especially if you’re looking for a budget-friendly gi that still performs well on the mats.
That said, the buying experience was a little frustrating.
When browsing the site, a lot of the gis—including this one—were listed around $55–$60, which looks like a great deal at first glance. But once you actually get to checkout, the price changes quite a bit. You’re hit with about $30 for priority shipping, another $30 tariff fee, and then taxes on top of that. Taxes are expected, of course, but the added shipping and tariff costs make the final price land much closer to what you’d normally pay for other gis on the market.
It felt a little misleading to see what looks like a flash sale price, only to realize the total cost ends up being fairly standard once everything is added in.
Final Rating For the Tatami Superlite BJJ Gi ( 9.2 / 10 )
The final rating section for the Tatami Super Light BJJ Gi is a 9.2 out of 10 on the graveyard scale. this scores as one of the highest rated Gi’s that we have tested to date.
Alternatives and Recommendations
Buying Guide
You can buy Tatami BJJ Gi both on their website and Amazon. The options listed on Amazon are extremely limited.
The updated list of Best BJJ Gi will showcase new gis as we get around to updates. This list is trusted and showcases some of the top brands in the space.
If you are a brand and want to see how you stack up on the list feel free to reach out for an advertising opportunity.
Best BJJ Gi List
The updated list of Best BJJ Gis will showcase new pairs as we get around to updates.
Here is the running list we have put together with the corresponding score:
- Gold BJJ 9.6 / 10 – review
- Origin Atleta Gi 9.5 / 10 – review
- Future Kimonos (not sold anymore) 9.5 / 10 – review
- Origin Nomad BJJ Gi 9.25 / 10 – review
- Tatami Superlite BJJ Gi – 9.2 / 10 – review
- Venum x Assassin’s Creed Shadows 9.1 / 10 – review
- Sanabul Highlight Pro 8.8/ 10 – review
- Sanabul Core Series 8.5 / 10 – review
- Sanabul Essentials 8 / 10 – review
- Elite Sports 7.4 / 10 – review
- Shogun Jiu Jitsu 7.3 /10 – review
- Moya Brand (no score)
- Hayabusa Gi (no score) – review
Graveyard Scale Criteria for BJJ Gi’s
To keep reviews consistent, each product type has tailored categories while still balancing to 10 points. For BJJ Gis, here’s the breakdown:
- Fit & Comfort – 2 points
- Mobility & Weight – 2 points
- Shrinkage & Maintenance – 2 points
- Durability & Construction – 2 points
- Price & Value – 2 points
Not sure if this gi is right for you? Read our complete guide on how to choose the right BJJ gi.
