The Story Behind Combate Kimonos: Family-Owned BJJ Gear Built for Athletes

The Beginnings of Combate Kimonos

The journey of Combate Kimonos starts with a deep passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a desire to create something that truly stands apart. My name is Matt, and for years, I was immersed in the world of BJJ—not just as a practitioner but also as a leader within the industry, managing a respected brand. It was during that time that I gained unique insight into what makes quality BJJ gear, what the community values most, and where there was still room to improve.

When my wife and I decided to create Combate Kimonos as a family-run business, our mission was clear: to bring top-tier gear and lifestyle wear to the BJJ community, combining exceptional quality with unparalleled customer service. This isn’t just a brand; it’s a reflection of our lives and commitment to every academy and athlete we serve.

Why Combate Kimonos?

BJJ is more than a martial art; it’s a battle—of mind, body, and spirit. This fight inspired us to name our brand "Combate," meaning “combat” in Portuguese, a nod to both the roots of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the resilience it demands. Our philosophy isn’t just about outfitting athletes; it’s about honoring their struggle and growth through gear that performs under pressure and meets the demands of competition.

We understand that each roll on the mat is a test of strength, skill, and resilience. That’s why we create gear and apparel that match these qualities, ensuring that our gis, rash guards, shorts, and lifestyle clothing embody the heart of a fighter.

Where We Started

Our brand officially launches with the exclusive limited edition  Tropa Pro Lite Gi—a competition-legal, 380 GSM lightweight gi that’s been rigorously battle-tested. Available for men, women, and kids, the Tropa Pro Lite Gi reflects our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of every BJJ fighter. This is just the beginning, as we continue to expand our line with custom services for academies, periodic exclusive gi releases, and lifestyle wear like our iconic hoodies and tees.

We are proud to bring Combate Kimonos to life as a family business, driven by love for this martial art and a passion to support the BJJ community. Our personalized services ensure that academies get quality gear tailored to their vision, while customers know they can expect premium, durable products—designed and delivered with care.

What’s Next for Combate Kimonos?

Looking ahead, our plans are ambitious yet deeply rooted in community connection. Our exclusive gi launches will not only bring innovation but also invite feedback and collaboration with our partners to ensure we’re always providing gear that’s loved on and off the mat. We also aim to expand our apparel line, capturing the essence of the BJJ lifestyle beyond just the training room. Whether you’re on the mat, coaching, or representing your team outside of class, Combate Kimonos has you covered.

To our customers and friends: Combate Kimonos isn’t just about gear—it’s about strength, community, and overcoming adversity together. We are excited to be part of your journey and invite you to join us as we continue to grow and honor the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.