Finding the best BJJ gi is a challenge for us tall guys (I’m Dutch, so by heritage I’m tall like a tree), because most gis assume a more ‘standard’ body type. This problem gets worse the taller and skinnier you get. Standard A2 and A3 sizes leave you with sleeves that ride up to your elbows and pants that look like capris. To help all the lanky guys out there, I wrote this guide covering the best BJJ gis for tall skinny guys, with specific fit details, real user feedback, and a brand-by-brand size comparison.
I’ve been training in L-size gis for years and I’ve tested or researched every option on this list. Below you’ll find my honest picks, a breakdown of what L-sizes actually mean, brands to avoid, and answers to the questions tall grapplers ask most.
Quick Picks: Best Gis for Tall Skinny Guys
| Best Overall | Tatami Nova Absolute (A2L/A2XL) | Check price on Amazon |
| Lightest Option | Gold BJJ Aeroweave (A2L/A3L) | Check price on Amazon |
| Best Budget | Fuji All Around (A2L) | Check price on Amazon |
Understanding L-Sizes: What A2L, A3L, and A2XL Actually Mean
Before you buy, you need to understand the L-size system. Standard gi sizes (A1, A2, A3) scale both width and length together. That’s great if you gain weight proportionally, but terrible if you’re built like a beanpole. L-sizes fix this by adding length without adding width.
Here’s how the three main L-size categories break down:
| Size | Height Range | Weight Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| A2L | 5’10” – 6’1″ (178-185cm) | 155-185 lbs (70-84kg) | Most tall/lean grapplers |
| A3L | 6’0″ – 6’4″ (183-193cm) | 185-220 lbs (84-100kg) | Tall guys with some mass |
| A2XL | 6’0″ – 6’5″ (183-196cm) | 165-190 lbs (75-86kg) | Very tall and very lean |
The key difference: A2L adds about 2-3 inches of length to a standard A2, while keeping the same chest and shoulder width. A2XL adds even more length (roughly 4+ inches) for guys who are exceptionally lanky. A3L is for taller guys who also carry more weight, so it adds both some width and significant length over a standard A3.
Not all brands use the same measurements for these sizes (more on that in the comparison table below). A Tatami A2L fits differently from a Fuji A2L, so always check the specific brand’s size chart. If you want help figuring out your exact size, use our interactive gi size calculator.
The 6 Best BJJ Gis for Tall Skinny Guys
1. Tatami Nova Absolute (A2L/A2XL) – Best Overall
The Tatami Nova Absolute is the gi I recommend to most tall skinny grapplers. It’s available in A2L, A3L, and A2XL, which covers the full range of lanky body types. The 450gsm pearl weave jacket hits a sweet spot between durability and weight, and the 10oz cotton twill pants hold up well to constant guard play.
What makes the Nova Absolute stand out for tall guys is that Tatami consistently delivers accurate L-sizing. Their A2L actually gives you the extra sleeve and pant length you need, without adding unnecessary bulk in the torso. For guys between 5’10” and 6’2″ who weigh under 185 lbs, the A2L fits like it was made for you.
That said, one reviewer on Art of Tall noted that the Tatami Nova MK4 (the previous model) had pants that ran 5-10cm too short for his 6’5″ frame. If you’re over 6’3″, go with the A2XL or A3L instead of the A2L.
Fabric: 450gsm pearl weave jacket, 10oz cotton twill pants
Available L-sizes: A2L, A3L, A2XL
Price range: $80-$100
Pros: Reliable L-sizing, affordable, clean design, IBJJF legal
Cons: Pants can run short for guys over 6’3″ in A2L
2. Gold BJJ Aeroweave (A2L/A3L) – Lightest Option
The Gold BJJ Aeroweave is one of the lightest gis on the market, and it’s available in A2L and A3L. If you hate training in a heavy, damp gi that clings to your lanky frame, this is your answer. The proprietary aeroweave fabric is noticeably thinner and more breathable than a standard pearl weave, but Gold BJJ reinforced the stress points so it doesn’t fall apart.
For tall skinny guys specifically, the Aeroweave runs slim through the body. The A3L covers guys up to about 6’6″ and 190 lbs, which handles most lanky builds. The cut is naturally tapered, so you won’t get that tent-like drape that standard gis give us tall guys.
The tradeoff is durability. An ultralight gi won’t last as long as a 550gsm tank, and some users report the fabric pills after 6-8 months of heavy use. But for the price point, that’s an acceptable compromise.
Fabric: Ultralight aeroweave jacket, ripstop pants
Available L-sizes: A2L, A3L
Price range: $80-$95
Pros: Extremely light, runs slim, great for hot gyms, affordable
Cons: Less durable than heavier weaves, fabric can pill over time
3. Fuji All Around (A2L) – Best Budget Option
The Fuji All Around has been one of the most popular gis in BJJ for over a decade, and for good reason. It’s affordable, durable, and the A2L fits tall guys well. Fuji’s sizing tends to run slightly generous in length compared to some other brands, which actually works in our favor.
The mid-weight pearl weave (550gsm) makes it tougher than the lighter options on this list, and the cotton pants are thick enough to survive years of guard passing. It’s not flashy, but it does everything right. If you’re a white or blue belt who doesn’t want to spend $150 on your first gi that fits, this is the move.
One thing to note: Fuji only offers the All Around in A2L (not A3L or A2XL). So if you’re over 6’2″ or need more length than a standard A2L provides, you’ll need to look at Tatami or one of the other options below.
Fabric: 550gsm pearl weave jacket, cotton twill pants
Available L-sizes: A2L
Price range: $70-$90
Pros: Proven durability, great value, widely available
Cons: Only A2L available (no A3L/A2XL), heavier fabric
4. Scramble Athlete 4 – Naturally Long Cut
The Scramble Athlete 4 doesn’t come in dedicated L-sizes, but don’t skip past it. Scramble’s standard sizing runs noticeably longer in the sleeves and pants than most brands. An A2 Scramble Athlete often fits like an A2L from other companies.
The 450gsm pearl weave jacket is comfortable and breaks in nicely after a few washes. The pants use a ripstop/cotton blend that’s lighter than full cotton twill, which tall guys will appreciate since you’ve got more leg to cover. The fit through the torso is also slightly tapered, so it doesn’t billow out on slim builds.
This is a good option if you’re on the shorter end of “tall” (5’10” – 6’0″) and just need a bit more length than standard gis give you. If you’re over 6’1″, you’ll still want a dedicated L-size from Tatami or Fuji.
Fabric: 450gsm pearl weave jacket, ripstop/cotton blend pants
Available sizes: A1-A5 (standard sizes run long)
Price range: $130-$150
Pros: Naturally long cut, no L-size needed, quality construction
Cons: More expensive, no dedicated L-sizes for very tall guys
5. Inverted Gear Panda – Slim Cut with Good Arm Length
Inverted Gear has built a loyal following in BJJ, and their Panda gi is one of the better options for tall builds. Like Scramble, Inverted Gear runs longer than average in their standard sizing, and the cut through the chest and shoulders is on the slimmer side.
The 350gsm pearl weave jacket makes this one of the lighter options on the list. The pants use ripstop fabric, which keeps the overall weight down. For tall guys who compete and need to make weight, this combination of slim cut and light materials is ideal.
The Panda gi is also one of the more comfortable gis out of the bag. It doesn’t need the 5+ wash break-in period that some heavier gis require. The fit is good for guys in the 5’10” – 6’1″ range who are lean but not extremely lanky.
Fabric: 350gsm pearl weave jacket, ripstop pants
Available sizes: A1-A4 (runs long and slim)
Price range: $120-$140
Pros: Slim cut, light weight, comfortable immediately
Cons: No dedicated L-sizes, not ideal if you’re over 6’2″
6. Kingz Balistico 4.0 (A2L) – Premium Competition Option
The Kingz Balistico 4.0 is one of the most well-regarded competition gis in BJJ, and it’s available in A2L. This is a premium option for tall guys who want a gi that looks and feels like it belongs at Worlds.
The 450gsm pearl weave jacket is IBJJF legal and has a slim, athletic cut that works well on lanky frames. The ripstop pants are lightweight and reinforced at the knees. Kingz has a reputation for consistent sizing, so their A2L delivers the extra length you’d expect.
HCK on the Sherdog forums described the fit as “like tailor made” at 6’3″ and 180 lbs. That’s high praise from someone who’s probably tried a dozen gis that didn’t fit. The Balistico runs slightly more fitted than the Tatami Nova Absolute, so if you’re lean, this will look sharp on you.
Fabric: 450gsm pearl weave jacket, ripstop pants
Available L-sizes: A2L
Price range: $140-$170
Pros: Premium construction, competition-ready, clean design
Cons: Higher price, only A2L (no A3L/A2XL)
Brands to Avoid for Lanky Builds
Not every brand works for tall skinny guys, even in L-sizes. Here are a few I’d steer clear of:
Vulkan: I’d avoid Vulkan if you’re over 6’1″. Their gis run short in the sleeves and pants compared to other brands at the same size. Multiple tall grapplers have reported that even their largest sizes leave too much wrist and ankle exposed.
Koral: Similar issue to Vulkan. Koral gis are cut for stockier builds. They’re wider through the chest than they are long in the limbs, which is the exact opposite of what a lanky grappler needs.
Sanabul (standard line): The Sanabul Essentials v2 is a great budget gi for average builds, but it runs baggy and short. There are no L-sizes available, and the standard cut adds width where you don’t need it. If you’re tall and skinny, you’ll look like you’re wearing a potato sack.
Most “house brand” gis: Gis sold by individual gyms or no-name Amazon brands rarely offer L-sizes. Even if they seem long enough, the cut is usually too wide for lean builds. Stick with established brands that have actual size charts you can verify.
A2L Size Comparison Across Brands
Not all A2L sizes are created equal. Here’s how the major brands compare for their A2L sizing. These numbers come directly from each brand’s official size charts:
| Brand / Model | Height Range | Weight Range | Jacket Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tatami Nova Absolute | 5’10” – 6’1″ | 155-185 lbs | 450gsm | $80-100 |
| Gold BJJ Aeroweave | 5’9″ – 6’1″ | 150-180 lbs | Ultra-light | $80-95 |
| Fuji All Around | 5’9″ – 6’2″ | 155-190 lbs | 550gsm | $70-90 |
| Kingz Balistico 4.0 | 5’10” – 6’1″ | 160-185 lbs | 450gsm | $140-170 |
As you can see, Fuji tends to run slightly more generous in their height range, while Gold BJJ and Kingz are a touch more snug. If you’re right at 6’1″ and debating between A2L and A3L, the answer depends on the brand. For Fuji, the A2L might be enough. For Tatami or Kingz, you might want to size up.
For a more detailed breakdown of gi sizing across all brands (not just L-sizes), check out our interactive gi size calculator and our guide on how a BJJ gi should fit.
How to Measure Yourself for an L-Size Gi
Don’t guess your size. Grab a tape measure and take these three measurements. They take 2 minutes and will save you the hassle of returning a gi that doesn’t fit.
Step 1: Arm length. Measure from the base of your neck (where your collar bone meets your shoulder) down to your wrist bone. This is the single most important measurement for tall guys. If your arm length is over 33 inches (84cm), you almost certainly need an L-size.
Step 2: Outseam (leg length). Measure from your waist down to your ankle bone along the outside of your leg. If this is over 42 inches (107cm), standard sizes will leave you with pants that ride up past your shin.
Step 3: Chest circumference. Measure around the widest part of your chest with the tape snug but not tight. This tells you whether you need the “L” (long) or “XL” (extra long) variant. If your chest is under 40 inches (102cm) at 6’0″+, you’re firmly in A2L or A2XL territory rather than A3L.
Compare your measurements against the brand’s specific size chart before ordering. And if you’re between sizes, most tall skinny guys are better off sizing up and doing a hot wash to shrink the width slightly, rather than sizing down and ending up with short sleeves.
FAQ – BJJ Gis for Tall Skinny Guys
Still not sure which size or gi is right for you? Check out our complete BJJ gi brand reviews, our lightweight gi guide, or head to our main BJJ gi page to explore more options.
