Do You Need Spats for BJJ? Spats vs Compression Shorts

Walk into any no-gi class and you'll see a mix: some people in shorts, some with compression shorts underneath, and a lot in leggings that look like they're heading to a superhero casting. Those leggings are BJJ spats, and if you're new, you're probably wondering if you need a pair.

Short answer: No, you don't strictly need BJJ spats. Plenty of people train no-gi in shorts alone or with compression shorts underneath. Spats are worth it if you want more skin coverage, less mat burn on your knees, fewer grips on bare legs, or a warmer layer. Compression shorts are the lighter, cooler option.

Here's how to decide without overthinking it.

What are BJJ spats?

Spats are compression tights made for grappling. They're snug, stretchy and usually sit under a pair of shorts. You'll see two common lengths:

• Full length: down to the ankle.
• 3/4 length: ending around mid-calf.

Good BJJ spats are built to take pulling, twisting and a lot of knee-on-mat time. They should stay put when someone grabs your leg or you're scooting into a guard pull.

The name comes from old-fashioned ankle covers, but in grappling it's just shorthand for "tights you roll in." Nobody will judge you for calling them leggings.

What spats actually do for you

Less mat burn and fewer scrapes

Knees and shins take a beating in no-gi. Shooting, knee slides and leg entanglements all drag skin across the mat. BJJ spats put a layer between you and the surface, which means fewer raw spots after a hard week.

More coverage, less skin contact

Covering your legs means less bare-skin contact with partners and mats. That's not a medical guarantee against skin infections, but it does reduce exposure. Clean gear and a quick shower still matter more. We go into this in our mat hygiene guide on rashguards, ringworm and staph.

Fewer sweaty grips

Bare, sweaty legs can be surprisingly grippy, and they can also be slippery in odd ways. Spats give a more consistent surface. Leg lockers often like that predictability.

Warmth

In a cold gym in January, full-length spats make warm-ups a lot more pleasant. In a hot summer gym, you may want less.

Modesty and peace of mind

Shorts ride up during inversions and guard play. A pair of spats underneath means you're never thinking about what's on show.

What compression shorts do better

Compression shorts are the minimalist choice. They support you, stop loose shorts from flapping, and keep things in place, without covering your legs.

They're a good pick if you:

• Run hot and hate extra fabric.
• Mostly train top game and don't spend much time on your knees.
• Want something you can also wear for lifting, running or striking.
• Are just starting out and don't want to buy too much gear.

Our compression shorts are €37.90 and sit well under any loose shorts.

BJJ spats vs compression shorts: side by side

	BJJ spats	Compression shorts
Leg coverage	Full or 3/4 leg	Thigh only
Mat burn on knees	Much less	Same as bare legs
Temperature	Warmer	Cooler
Grip on legs	More consistent	Bare skin
Best for	Leg locks, guard players, cold gyms	Hot gyms, beginners, mixed training
Wear with	Shorts on top	Shorts on top

Neither one is "right." Lots of grapplers own both and pick based on the day.

Do you need spats for no-gi competitions?

Not usually. Most no-gi events let you compete in shorts, with or without spats or compression underneath. But rules on lengths, colors and what you wear over spats can vary between organizations and change over time.

So before any tournament, check the current rulebook for that event. If it's an IBJJF competition, read the latest IBJJF no-gi rules. Our post on IBJJF no-gi rules and rashguard colors is a good starting point, but the official rulebook always wins.

How to choose BJJ spats

If you've decided to try a pair, here's what to look for.

Fit

BJJ spats should feel snug but not cutting. The waistband shouldn't roll down when you bridge, and there shouldn't be baggy fabric at the knee. If you're between sizes, think about whether you prefer extra compression or extra comfort.

Length

Full length gives the most coverage and warmth. 3/4 length is a little cooler and some people find it easier to move in. If you do a lot of leg locks or play on your knees, full length is the usual pick.

Seams and waistband

Look for flat, reinforced seams that won't rub when you're squeezed in a body triangle. A wide, comfortable waistband sits better under shorts.

Print and color

Sublimated prints, where the color goes into the fabric, won't crack or peel the way printed-on designs can. That matters with something you'll wash after every session.

Browse our spats collection to see current designs.

Wearing spats with shorts

Most people wear BJJ spats under a pair of loose grappling or MMA shorts. The shorts add coverage, give you a looser layer on top, and tone down the full superhero look. Compression shorts under spats are optional; some like the extra support, others find it too warm.

If you're unsure which shorts to pair with them, read MMA shorts vs grappling shorts vs hybrid shorts.

Caring for your spats

Wash them after every session, the same as your rashguard. Turn them inside out, use a gentle cycle, skip fabric softener and keep the heat low when drying. Heat is what wears out stretchy fabrics the fastest.

Quick answers

Are BJJ spats just leggings?

Pretty much, but built tougher. BJJ spats are made to handle grabbing, twisting and knee work, with stronger seams and a waistband that stays up.

Do you wear underwear under spats?

That's personal. Many people wear compression shorts or nothing extra underneath, since spats are already snug. Do what's comfortable and hygienic for you, and wash everything after training.

Should beginners buy spats?

Not on day one. Start with a rashguard and shorts, and add spats if mat burn, cold gyms or leg-heavy classes make you want more coverage. Our BJJ gear for beginners guide has a simple starter kit.

Can you wear spats in gi classes?

Some people wear them under the gi pants for warmth or comfort. Check with your gym, and with your tournament's rules if you compete.

The bottom line

You don't need BJJ spats to train no-gi, but they're a solid upgrade if your knees and shins are tired of mat burn or you just like the extra coverage. Compression shorts are the cooler, simpler choice. Plenty of grapplers own both.

If you'd like a pair with your own design or your club's logo, our custom gear includes custom spats in 3/4 (€58.90) and full length (€59.90), with no minimum order.