Blue belt rashguard rule in no-gi competition
Have you just earned your blue belt and are you preparing for your first adult no-gi competition? Congratulations, that's a big step. But be careful: the uniform rules change from white belt, and the margin for error is smaller. Here's everything you need to know about blue belt rash guard rules according to CFJJB 2024 and IBJJF standards, so you don't get disqualified at weigh-ins.
What changes when you get your blue belt
For white belts, the rule is simple: mostly white with black allowed. From blue belt — and for all adult colored belts (blue, purple, brown) as well as children's belts (yellow, orange, green) — the rules become more stringent. The logic changes: now, you must display your belt color on your rash guard. This is a way to mark your rank and allow referees to identify you at a glance on the mat.
Specifically, the rash guard stops being a simple neutral garment. It becomes a true marker of your level, and the CFJJB imposes two options for you to comply.
Authorized colors for the blue belt
According to the CFJJB no-gi 2024 rules, your blue belt rash guard must be one of the following combinations:
• Black, white, or black and white combined, with a minimum of 10% blue (your belt color)
• OR 100% blue (your belt color)
You therefore have two possible strategies. Either you go for a black and/or white rash guard with a blue stripe, inserts, or sleeves that represent at least 10% of the visible surface. Or you choose an entirely blue rash guard, without any other color (excluding logos).
What is forbidden:
• A rash guard with a color other than black, white, or blue (no red, green, dark gray, yellow, etc.)
• A black/white rash guard without blue (the minimum 10% is mandatory)
• A blue rash guard with inserts of another color
• Camouflage, tie-dye, or multi-colored patterns
Practical tip: if you want a versatile rash guard, opt for a black and white model with 10-20% blue. You can wear it for training and competition without a problem. You'll find this type of model in the Hustle Fightwear rash guard collection.
Cut, length, and material: the fundamentals
As with all belts, the rash guard must meet three non-negotiable technical criteria:
• Compressive elastic material: no cotton, no classic t-shirt, no baggy fabric
• Close-fitting cut: it must be tight to the skin so as not to offer a grip to the opponent
• Sufficient length: it must cover the waistband of your shorts, even when you raise your arms to finish a submission
These points are checked during weigh-ins. If your rash guard rides up as soon as you stretch your arms, the referee may reject it. This is a detail that can make all the difference in your ability to step onto the mat. To better understand these aspects, consult our guide on how to choose your BJJ and grappling rash guard.
What shorts to wear as a blue belt?
The rules for shorts do not depend on your rank: they apply to all belts. You can wear all black shorts, all white, combined black/white, or your belt color (blue in your case). No pockets, no zippers, no plastic or metal parts. The length must be at least mid-thigh (maximum 15 cm above the knee) and not extend beyond the knee.
You can also wear spats (compression leggings) under your shorts. Same color rules: black, white, black/white, or belt color.
The safe option: an approved set
To avoid questioning yourself at each competition, the best thing is to invest in a set already designed to comply with the rules. The Competitor V2 set from Hustle Fightwear is CFJJB and IBJJF approved. Hundreds of athletes have already competed with it in official championships. Premium compressive fabric, athletic cut, reinforced finishes: it's the reference option for competitors who want reliable and compliant equipment from blue belt onwards.
You will find the different available versions, including the blue belt versions, in the rash guard collection.
Common blue belt mistakes
Here are the pitfalls that get blue belts disqualified at weigh-ins:
• Keeping your white belt rash guard: it doesn't contain blue, so it's non-compliant.
• Choosing a rash guard with less than 10% blue: a simple trim is not enough, the referee visually estimates the percentage.
• Mixing several colors outside the rules: a blue rash guard with red or gray is refused, even if blue is dominant.
• Forgetting the length: a rash guard that is too short will still be rejected, even if it's the right color.
In summary
For your blue belt rash guard uniform in no-gi competition, you have two options: black/white with a minimum of 10% blue, or 100% blue. Elastic material, close-fitting cut, and length that covers the shorts. To never have any doubts on competition day, opt for an approved set like the Competitor V2. Now that you know the rules, it's time to prepare. Good fight on the mat.
