Buy the color assigned by your academy, then use the exact belt maker's size chart because A-sizes are brand-specific. IBJJF requires a durable 4 to 5 cm belt in the athlete's rank color; its uniform guide also specifies a double wrap and 20 to 30 cm of each end after tying.
Choose a belt that matches your assigned rank and fits your gi. The belt size label is not a universal length chart, so compare the measurements for the exact brand and model.
Match rank color to the official system
The IBJJF graduation system lists adult ranks for athletes aged 16 and older as white, blue, purple, brown, black, red and black, red and white, then red. Its youth system lists white, gray, yellow, orange and green belts with specified combinations for athletes aged 4 to 15. Buy the color your academy has assigned rather than selecting a rank color by preference.
For IBJJF events, the uniform page calls for a durable belt 4 to 5 cm wide, colored for the athlete’s rank. It describes a double wrap, a double knot and 20 to 30 cm of each belt end after tying. Check the current event requirements if you compete under a different organization.
Use the brand’s size chart
| Tatami listed size | Approximate belt length |
|---|---|
| A1 | 265 cm |
| A2 | 280 cm |
| A3 | 295 cm |
| A4 | 310 cm |
| A5 | 330 cm |
These are Tatami’s approximate lengths for its listed IBJJF rank belt. Other brands can use different lengths or size names. Measure over the gi where the belt will sit, then check the exact manufacturer’s chart.
Related: BJJ gi sizing guide and no-gi BJJ apparel guide. Browse BJJ and grappling.
Sources
Common questions
What size BJJ belt should I buy?
Measure where the belt will sit over your gi, then use the brand's chart for that exact model. Tatami's listed examples run from 265 cm for A1 to 330 cm for A5.
What are the adult BJJ belt colors?
The IBJJF graduation system lists white, blue, purple, brown, black, red and black, red and white, and red for athletes aged 16 and older. Your academy assigns your rank color.
What belt width is allowed in IBJJF competition?
The IBJJF uniform page specifies a durable belt 4 to 5 cm wide. It also describes how the belt is wrapped and how much of each end hangs after tying.