Purple belt rashguard regulations for no-gi competition
You're a purple belt and you're preparing for your next no-gi BJJ competition? At this level, you're expected to have technical mastery, but also strict adherence to the uniform rules. The 2024 CFJJB regulations are strict about rashguard colors and cut, and a forgotten detail can lead to disqualification at weigh-ins. Here's everything you need to know to be compliant on D-day.
Why such precise regulations for colored belts?
In no-gi, the rashguard plays the role of the gi: it indicates your rank. For blue, purple, and brown belts, the CFJJB and IBJJF require that your belt color clearly appears on your uniform. This rule exists to allow referees and competitors to instantly identify your level on the mat, and to prevent a high rank from being confused with a lower belt.
Specifically, as a purple belt, you are already an experienced competitor. You understand the importance of details. And uniform regulations are one of those details that need to be prepared in advance.
Authorized colors for purple belts
According to the 2024 CFJJB no-gi regulations, your purple belt rashguard must adhere to one of the following two options:
• Black, white, or a combination of black and white, with a minimum of 10% purple (your belt color)
• OR 100% purple (your belt color)
What is allowed:
• A black rashguard with purple inserts, sleeves, or stripes (at least 10% of the surface)
• A white rashguard with purple details (same logic)
• A combined black and white rashguard with a purple section
• A 100% purple rashguard, without any other color (excluding logos)
What is prohibited:
• Any other color (red, blue, green, gray, yellow, etc.)
• A black/white rashguard without purple (the minimum 10% is mandatory)
• A purple rashguard with inserts of another color
• Camouflage, tie-dye, or multi-colored patterns
Tip: If you want a "dual-purpose" rashguard for training and competition, opt for a black/white model with 10-20% purple. You'll always be compliant and avoid investing in multiple uniforms. You can explore the available models in the Hustle Fightwear rashguard collection.
Cut, material, and length
Beyond colors, the rashguard must meet three technical criteria verified at weigh-ins:
• Compressive elastic material: specific stretchy combat sports fabric, not classic cotton
• Tight-fitting cut: it must be close to the skin to avoid offering a grip
• Sufficient length: it must cover the waistband of your shorts even when you raise your arms
If your rashguard rides up as soon as you stretch your arms, the referee may refuse it. This is common among competitors who choose a cut that is too short. To better understand the difference between cuts, consult our guide on long-sleeve or short-sleeve rashguards.
What about shorts?
The rules for shorts do not depend on rank. You can wear all-black shorts, all-white shorts, combined black/white shorts, or shorts in your belt color (purple). No pockets, no zippers, no plastic or metal parts. Minimum mid-thigh length (max 15 cm above the knee) and not extending beyond the knee.
You can also wear spats under your shorts, within the same authorized color palette.
The pro option: an approved set
To never have to worry again, go for a set designed from the start for competition. The Competitor V2 set from Hustle Fightwear is CFJJB and IBJJF approved. Hundreds of athletes, including international competitors, have already competed with it in official championships. Premium compressive fabric, performance-designed cut, reinforced finishes. It's the go-to option for purple belts who want a reliable and compliant uniform.
Common purple belt mistakes
Here are the pitfalls that get purple belts disqualified at weigh-ins:
• Keeping their blue belt rashguard: it contains blue, not purple. Not compliant.
• Choosing a too-subtle purple: a simple trim is not enough; the referee visually assesses that purple represents at least 10% of the surface.
• Mixing several colors: a purple rashguard with red or gray is refused.
• Forgetting the length: a rashguard that is too short will still be rejected, regardless of color.
To go further, also read our article on blue belt rashguard regulations which details the transition from the lower belt.
In summary
For your purple belt rashguard in no-gi competition, two options: black/white with a minimum of 10% purple, or 100% purple. Compressive elastic material, tight fit, length that covers the shorts. To avoid weigh-in jitters, invest in an approved set like the Competitor V2 and focus on what matters: your performance on the mat. Good luck with the competition.
