Short Sleeve Vs Long Sleeve Rash guards: What to Choose for Your BJJ Training
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), one of the essential pieces of gear for No-Gi training is a rash guard. You can also use rash guard under your gi. Rash guards offer protection, comfort, and compression. Thus making them a crucial part of your BJJ wardrobe. But with options like short sleeve and long sleeve rash guards, how do you decide which one is best for your training?
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both short sleeve and long sleeve rash guards. This will help you in making an informed decision. It does not matter whether you’re looking for more protection, comfort, or breathability. Here, we’ll cover all the important factors so that you can choose the perfect rash guard for your BJJ needs.
Why Rash Guards Are Important in BJJ
Before diving into the differences between short sleeve and long sleeve rash guards, it’s important to understand why rash guards are essential in BJJ:
- Protection from Mat Burns: Rash guards help protect your skin from friction and mat burns. The friction and mat burns are caused by the constant movement and close contact in BJJ.
- Hygiene: Wearing a rash guard adds a layer of protection against bacterial infections. Such infections as ringworm or staph, can occur in contact sports like BJJ.
- Compression Benefits: Rash guards provide compression that can enhance blood flow and reduce muscle fatigue. Thus help in improving performance.
- Moisture-Wicking: Rash guards are made of moisture-wicking materials like polyester and spandex. These material help keep sweat away from your body. Hence keeping you cool and dry during intense training sessions.
With these benefits in mind, let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages of both short sleeve and long sleeve rash guards.
Read Full Guide Are Rash Guards Necessary for BJJ?
Short Sleeve Rash Guards: Pros and Cons
Short sleeve rash guards are a popular choice for BJJ practitioners who prefer more freedom of movement in the arms. They are commonly used in No-Gi BJJ. And many athletes favor them for their comfort and breathability.
Pros of Short Sleeve Rash Guards
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Increased Mobility
Short sleeve rash guards offer more freedom of movement, especially in the arms and shoulders. This is particularly beneficial for BJJ athletes who rely on their upper body strength and need full mobility during rolls and submissions.
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Great for Warm Weather
In hot or humid training environments, a short sleeve rash guard is a great option as it allows for better airflow and prevents overheating. You’ll feel cooler and more comfortable during intense training sessions.
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More Lightweight
With less fabric, short sleeve rash guards are lighter and can feel less restrictive. If you don’t like the feel of fabric around your elbows or forearms, this is a perfect choice.
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Easy Layering Under a Gi
Short sleeve rash guards can easily be worn under your gi without adding bulk. They do not cause any discomfort around the elbows. This makes them ideal for Gi training when you want a rash guard that stays lightweight and breathable.
Cons of Short Sleeve Rash Guards
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Less Protection
One of the drawbacks of short sleeve rash guards is the reduced protection for your arms. In BJJ, your arms are in constant contact with the mat and your opponent. So, short sleeves leave your elbows and forearms more exposed to friction burns and scrapes.
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Less Warmth
If you train in colder climates or gyms, a short sleeve rash guard won’t provide the same level of warmth as a long sleeve option. It may not be ideal for winter training sessions or gyms with poor heating.
Long Sleeve Rash Guards: Pros and Cons
Long sleeve rash guards provide full-arm coverage, offering added protection and warmth. They are a favorite among athletes who want to minimize skin exposure. And for those athletes who prefer the extra security of a fully covered rash guard.
Pros of Long Sleeve Rash Guards
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Increased Protection
One of the biggest advantages of long sleeve rash guards is the extra protection they provide. With full-arm coverage, your elbows, forearms, and wrists are protected from mat burns, abrasions, and possible cuts. This makes them ideal for heavy rolling and competitions where skin protection is crucial.
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Better Hygiene
Since long sleeve rash guards cover more of your skin, they reduce the amount of direct skin contact with your opponent and the mat. This can help prevent the transmission of infections like ringworm, staph, or athlete’s foot. Hence, making long sleeve rash guards a better option for hygiene-conscious athletes.
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Added Warmth
If you train in colder environments or want to stay warm during the early stages of your training session, long sleeve rash guards provide additional warmth. The extra coverage can help you avoid feeling cold, especially in the winter months.
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Compression Support
Long sleeve rash guards offer more compression coverage for your arms. Thus improving blood flow and reducing muscle fatigue. This can be particularly beneficial during intense training or after prolonged sessions.
Cons of Long Sleeve Rash guards
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Reduced Mobility
With more fabric, long sleeve rash guards may feel more restrictive. They can especially limit your movement around the arms and elbows. Some practitioners feel that the extra material can limit movement. Thus make it more challenging to perform certain techniques.
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Hotter in Warm Weather
While long sleeve rash guards provide warmth, they can also cause you to overheat during training in hot or humid conditions. The full-arm coverage may trap heat. Thus making them less ideal for summer sessions or gyms without good ventilation.
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Harder to Layer
For those who like to wear rash guards under their gi, long sleeve rash guards may feel bulkier. And they can potentially cause discomfort in the sleeves of your gi.
Short Sleeve Vs Long Sleeve Rash guards: What to Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between short sleeve and long sleeve rash guards depends on your personal preferences and training environment. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Training Environment: In a hot and humid environment, a short sleeve rash guard is likely to be a better option. For a short sleeve rash guard provides breathability and gives a lightweight feel. On the other hand, in a colder climate or during the winter months, a long sleeve rash guard is ultimate choice. It provides added warmth and protection.
- Type of Training: For No-Gi BJJ or heavy rolling sessions, long sleeve rash guards can offer the additional protection you need. However, if you prioritize mobility and comfort, especially under a gi, short sleeve rash guards might be more suitable.
- Hygiene Concerns: If hygiene is a top concern for you, a long sleeve rash guard is a better option. As long sleeve rash guard minimizes direct skin contact with your training partners. Moreover, it provides full-arm coverage to reduce the risk of infections.
- Personal Comfort: Some athletes prefer the feel of short sleeves. While others enjoy the compression and security of long sleeves. Test both types to see which one feels better during your training sessions.
Shop the Best Rash Guards at Novakik BJJ
At Novakik BJJ, we offer a wide selection of high-quality short sleeve and long sleeve rash guards. Each rash guard is designed to meet the needs of BJJ practitioners at every level. It does not matter whether you’re looking for enhanced protection, compression support, or maximum mobility. We have the perfect rash guard to cover everything for you.
Our Bjj rash guards are made from durable, moisture-wicking fabrics. Thus, ensuring you stay cool, comfortable, and protected during every roll. Plus, with our exclusive discounts and free worldwide shipping, now is the perfect time to upgrade your BJJ gear.
Explore Novakik Bjj Shoyoroll Rash Guards Collection.
Conclusion: Short Sleeve or Long Sleeve Rash Guards?
Both short sleeve and long sleeve rash guards have their unique advantages. If you value mobility, breathability, and ease of layering under a gi, short sleeve rash guards are an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for more protection, warmth, and better hygiene, long sleeve rash guards are the way to go.
No matter what your preference, Novakik BJJ has the best selection of rash guards to keep you protected and performing at your best. Shop now and find the perfect rash guard to elevate your BJJ game!