What Are Spats BJJ? | Grappling Gear Explained

BJJ spats are tight-fitting compression leggings worn for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to protect against mat burn and manage sweat during training.

If you’ve started Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu recently, you’ve probably noticed plenty of people on the mat wearing what look like full-length leggings under their shorts or gi pants. Those are spats, and they serve a real purpose beyond looking sharp. Understanding what spats are BJJ-specific gear versus everyday leggings, and knowing when to wear them, can save you from an uncomfortable first session.

What Do BJJ Spats Actually Do?

Spats provide a practical layer between your skin and the mat. They are designed specifically for grappling, not casual wear, and most athletes use them to reduce friction burns, manage sweat, and add a light layer of compression support during training.

Vendors commonly describe these benefits: mat-burn protection, moisture-wicking fabric, freedom of movement, and compression that feels supportive without restricting motion. For instance, one brand’s product page lists 84% polyester and 16% spandex as the material blend, with flatlock seams and a silicone waistband to keep the spats in place during intense rolls.

These are practical, functional claims rather than medical guarantees. Spats reduce skin exposure to the mat, which lowers the chance of mat burn. They also keep sweat from pooling on your skin, which can help with hygiene since less exposed skin means less direct contact with whatever is on the training surface.

How Do You Wear Spats For BJJ?

The most common setup depends on whether you’re training gi or no-gi. In no-gi, athletes typically wear spats under grappling shorts. In gi training, spats go under the gi pants for an extra layer of protection and warmth.

Here’s the practical breakdown:

• No-gi: Wear spats under grappling shorts. The shorts provide a layer over the compression material, and the spats protect your thighs and knees from mat burn.
• Gi: Spats go under your gi pants. This adds warmth and a friction layer, which some athletes prefer during colder months.
• Standalone: Some academies allow spats without shorts, especially in women’s divisions. Check your gym’s dress code before trying this.

Spats are optional, not required, for training. Many grapplers train without them and rely on shorts alone. If you’re new, starting with a basic pair of grappling shorts and adding spats later is a perfectly reasonable approach. For those ready to buy, our best BJJ spats roundup covers top-rated options across price points and sizes.

Spats vs. Leggings: What’s The Difference?

Regular leggings are not a substitute for BJJ spats. Spats are built heavier-duty, with thicker material and reinforced seams designed to handle friction, pulling, and constant contact with the mat. Everyday leggings tear or wear through quickly under those conditions.

Most BJJ spats use polyester or nylon blends with spandex, typically in the 80-85% polyester range with the rest spandex. This combination gives the stretch needed for full-range movement while staying durable enough for grappling. Flatlock seams, like those listed on one brand’s product page, reduce chafing where seams rub against the skin during rolls.

Also worth noting: “spats shorts” is a different thing. In BJJ usage, that phrase often refers to shorter Vale Tudo shorts, not full-length compression leggings. If someone says they wear spats shorts, they mean the shorter style, not full-length spats.

Are There Rules About Wearing Spats In Competition?

Competition rules vary by organizer, so checking the specific event’s uniform policy before signing up is the standard recommendation. Some events require solid colors only, some have belt-rank-related color rules, and others restrict whether spats can be worn under a gi at all.

For training, the rules are set by your academy. Most gyms allow spats freely, but a few have dress codes that require shorts over them or restrict certain colors. When in doubt, ask your instructor before class rather than assuming the rules match what you saw at another gym.

The practical takeaway: you don’t need spats to train BJJ, but they are worth having once you’re past your first few sessions. They protect your skin, keep you more comfortable, and are standard gear for many grapplers. If you want recommendations on what to buy, see our tested picks for the best BJJ spats, covering sizing, materials, and durability across leading brands.