Ever rolled hard and felt that dreaded thud on your ear? It’s a common worry for anyone serious about Jiu Jitsu. Those cauliflower ear battles are real, and protecting your head shouldn’t feel like a mystery tour.
Choosing the perfect Jiu Jitsu headgear is tougher than it looks. You juggle concerns about padding thickness, breathability on hot mats, and whether it will actually stay put during a scramble. Poor choices lead to discomfort, overheating, and, worst of all, insufficient protection when you need it most.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down the essential features, explain what different styles mean for your training, and help you find the gear that truly supports your journey on the mats. Get ready to stop guessing and start training smarter.
Top Jiu Jitsu Headgear Recommendations
- ✅ IDEAL FOR WRESTLING & GRAPPLING: Designed for wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and MMA training - lightweight with soft exterior covering that protects your ears without scratching or harming training partners.
- ✅ COMFORTABLE CROSSOVER DESIGN: Hard plastic ear cups with soft fabric covering provide adequate protection for training without the bulk of traditional headgear that can interfere with mobility and submissions.
- ✅ ADJUSTABLE VELCRO STRAPS: Velcro straps on top, back, and chin allow for customizable fit, though proper adjustment is essential for secure placement during intense training sessions.
- ✅ STAYS FRESH & CLEAN: Quick handwash and air dry design keeps headgear hygienic and ready for the next practice - no lengthy cleaning routines needed.
- ✅ TRUSTED FOR 50+ YEARS: Matman has been a retailer of quality athletic goods and apparel for over 50 years, always prioritizing our athletes first.
- PROTECTION AGAINST CAULIFLOWER EAR 🛡️ Gold BJJ headgear is the protection you need to keep your ears safe and looking great while you train Jiu Jitsu or wrestling.
- ONE SIZE FITS ALL 👪 Our ear guard uses adjustable velcro straps that will protect your ears whether you're in the kid's class, or you're Bigfoot Silva. We also include a free mouthguard!
- EAR HOLES FOR HEARING 👂 We designed our ear guard with holes so you can actually hear your instructor or coach. Don't miss technique instruction just because you want to keep your ears fresh.
- TRUSTED BY THOUSANDS OF JIU JITSU ATHLETES 🥋 Our ear guard has been used by thousands of Jiu Jitsu athletes. From gi to no-gi, open mat to World's Finals, we've got your back (and ears).
- BACKED BY THE GOLD BJJ GUARANTEE 💯 Did the 320-pound all state wrestler who just rolled up in his white belt manage to rip your new ear guard to shreds? We stand behind our products completely. If for any reason you're not thrilled with your Gold BJJ headgear, we'll replace or refund your order no-questions-asked.
- ROAR Ear Guard is improved design with a secure strap on top of the headgear to avoid shifting & is perfect when switching between wrestling, bjj and kickboxing
- Molded made of soft spandex material and shock-absorbing Eva Padding.
- Three way enclosure system provides a perfect fit and allows you to adjust the size
- High density foam ensures your ears will be protected while using this product
- Exclusive R-Lock system coupled with lace-closure at the back
- Fully Adjustable
- Cliff Keen's Top Seller
- Custom Colored Straps
- Ear guard
- CLEAN AND DURABLE: Don’t let the ultra soft neoprene throw you, our headgear can stand up to the roughest of abuse on the mat; Material is easy to hand wash and hang dry for repeated use
- ULTRA SOFT NEOPRENE: Our ultra soft headgear is breathable and strong with a soft exterior and a durable shell insert for protection
- EASY TO ADJUST: Easily adjustable straps allow you to find your perfect fit without removing the headgear for maximum protection and comfort; Perfect for wrestling or daily grappling
- ✅【PREMIUM QUALITY】Super Soft neoprene designed to withstand the roughest of abuse on the mat. Material is easy to hand clean and hang dry for repeated use! Breathable with a strong soft butter shell and a durable hard shell insert for protection.
- ✅【PROFESSIONAL】Used by wrestling athletes from youth tournaments, high school, and college!
- ✅【ONE SIZE FITS ALL】Our ear guard uses adjustable hook & loop velcro straps that will secure & properly protect your ears whether you are in the youth classes or in the varsity lineup!
- ✅【CAULIFLOWER EAR PROTECTION】Our earguard is the protection needed to keep your ears safe from damage and still looking great while training Jiu Jitsu or Wrestling!
- ✅【VERSATILE】Used for many different sports such as Wrestling, Jiu Jitsu, MMA, Boxing, Sambo and more! Designed by athletes, for athletes!
- Lighter and Cooler Design – 43% lighter than traditional headgear, thanks to NASA-aided technology.
- On-The-Fly Strapping System – Ideal for weekend-long tournaments. Easy adjustments right on the mat for a secure fit.
- Greater Audible Sound Technology – Enhanced sound clarity to keep you focused and responsive.
- Durable and Reliable – Built to withstand the rigors of training and competition.
- VNF Vortex Foam - Soft yet tough padding greatly reduces friction on the mats
- ROAR Ear Guard is improved design with a secure strap on top of the headgear to avoid shifting & is perfect when switching between wrestling, bjj and kickboxing
- Molded made of soft spandex material and shock-absorbing Eva Padding.
- Three way enclosure system provides a perfect fit and allows you to adjust the size
- High density foam ensures your ears will be protected while using this product
- Exclusive R-Lock system coupled with lace-closure at the back
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Jiu-Jitsu Headgear
Jiu-Jitsu is a fantastic sport. It involves grappling and groundwork. Headgear protects your ears and head during training. Good headgear keeps you safe. It lets you focus on learning techniques. This guide helps you choose the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When buying headgear, certain features matter a lot. These features affect protection and comfort.
Ear Protection is Crucial
- Coverage: Look for headgear that fully covers your ears. This stops cauliflower ear, which is a common injury.
- Padding Depth: Thicker padding around the ears offers better impact absorption.
Fit and Adjustability
- Secure Straps: The headgear must stay put during intense rolling. Check for strong Velcro or buckle systems.
- Adjustable Sizing: Many quality models offer adjustable sizing features. This ensures a snug, personalized fit.
Visibility and Breathability
- Open Face Design: Most headgear leaves your face open. This is important for clear vision and breathing.
- Ventilation: Look for mesh panels or holes. Good ventilation keeps your head cool and dry.
Important Materials in Headgear
The materials used determine durability and comfort. You want materials that last long and feel good against your skin.
Outer Shell Materials
- Durable Fabrics: Nylon or polyester blends are common for the outside. These resist tearing from grips and friction.
- Leather (Premium): Some high-end headgear uses real or synthetic leather. Leather often lasts longer but might feel warmer.
Impact Absorption Materials
- Closed-Cell Foam: This foam is excellent for absorbing shocks. It does not soak up sweat easily, which keeps the gear lighter.
- Open-Cell Foam: This foam breathes better but absorbs sweat more. It needs more frequent cleaning.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is not just about price. It’s about how well the headgear performs over time.
Quality Boosters
- Stitching Strength: Double or reinforced stitching around high-stress areas (like straps) improves durability significantly.
- Antimicrobial Lining: Linings treated to resist bacteria help fight off bad smells. This is a huge plus for hygiene.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Padding: If the foam is too thin, it offers little protection against hard impacts.
- Weak Velcro: Poor quality hook-and-loop fasteners lose their grip quickly. This means the headgear constantly slips out of place during sparring.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you feel wearing the headgear affects your training enjoyment. Different situations need different gear.
Comfort During Training
A good fit means you forget you are wearing it. If the headgear is too bulky, it might restrict your movement or make it hard to see your training partner’s hips. Test the range of motion, especially when looking up or turning your neck.
Use Cases
- Beginners: New students should choose comfortable, well-padded gear. Safety is the top priority while learning how to fall safely.
- Sparring Partners: If you roll hard, prioritize high-density foam for maximum shock absorption.
- Competition (Check Rules): Note that many tournaments do not allow headgear. Always check specific competition rules before buying gear just for competition use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Jiu-Jitsu Headgear
Q: Do I really need headgear for Jiu-Jitsu?
A: Yes, especially if you train with heavy striking arts or have a history of ear injuries. Headgear protects against cauliflower ear and reduces head bumps during takedowns.
Q: What is “Cauliflower Ear”?
A: It happens when the outer part of your ear gets hit or rubbed hard repeatedly. Blood pools under the skin, making the ear look swollen and lumpy. Headgear prevents this friction.
Q: How often should I wash my headgear?
A: You should clean the inner lining after every use, even if you just wipe it down. A deep wash (following manufacturer instructions) should happen weekly if you train often.
Q: Will headgear make me hotter?
A: Yes, any gear covering your head will trap some heat. However, models with good ventilation holes or mesh panels manage heat much better than those without.
Q: How do I ensure the headgear fits correctly?
A: The straps should feel snug, but not painfully tight. When you shake your head gently, the headgear should not shift. Your vision must remain clear.
Q: Is there a difference between wrestling headgear and BJJ headgear?
A: They are very similar. BJJ gear sometimes features slightly thicker padding for grappling impacts, but the core design for ear protection is the same.
Q: Does good headgear cost a lot of money?
A: Mid-range and high-quality headgear usually cost between $40 and $80. Cheaper options exist, but they often sacrifice padding thickness or strap durability.
Q: Can I wear a beanie under my headgear?
A: Generally, no. Wearing a beanie underneath disrupts the intended fit. The headgear is designed to fit directly on your head for the best protection.
Q: How long does headgear typically last?
A: With regular use and proper cleaning, quality headgear lasts about two to three years before the foam starts breaking down or the Velcro wears out.
Q: What should I do if the straps stop sticking?
A: If the Velcro stops holding securely, you should replace the headgear. Loose straps mean the gear will move during impact, reducing its protective ability.