Inverted Gear’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a love for the Jiu-Jitsu community. What began as a small, family-run operation has grown into one of the most respected brands in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. But the journey to get here wasn’t always easy. It was driven by a dream—a dream that started with Nelson and his vision for a new kind of Jiu-Jitsu gear company.

The Early Days: A Dream in the Basement
In February, Nelson took the first steps toward building what would eventually become Inverted Gear. Starting out with limited resources, he began crafting products that he felt truly represented the BJJ community. With a lot of ambition and a bit of luck, he launched the brand from the basement of his mom’s house. At that point, it was just a dream, a passion project born from his love for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a desire to offer something unique to the community.

Nelson was handling logistics, orders, and communication, but something was still missing. Then, in December of the same year, Nelson met Hillary. Their first conversation was centered around a shared love of BJJ, and the moment Hillary dropped the word "DQ" (disqualification) in a conversation about competition, Nelson knew they had a special connection. It was then that Hillary joined the venture, becoming the brand’s "design department" almost immediately.

Hillary’s impact was immediate and transformative. With her background and passion for design, she took over the creative direction of Inverted Gear, helping Nelson craft gear that was functional, durable, and reflective of the unique culture of BJJ. She was more than just a partner—she became the heartbeat of the brand, designing every gi, rashguard, and accessory with a deep understanding of what BJJ practitioners needed and wanted.

Growing the Brand: Challenges and Triumphs
As any entrepreneur will tell you, building a brand from the ground up isn’t easy. The early days were filled with challenges, but Nelson and Hillary’s shared vision kept them going. Slowly but surely, Inverted Gear gained recognition for its high-quality products and commitment to the BJJ community. They weren’t just making gear—they were creating something that reflected the values and spirit of the sport.

Through their hard work and dedication, Inverted Gear began to grow, attracting athletes, academies, and practitioners who shared their values. The brand became synonymous with quality, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of the BJJ experience.

The Inverted Gear Philosophy: Quality, Innovation, and Community
Fast forward to 2025, and Inverted Gear has become a cornerstone of the BJJ world. The brand continues to prioritize quality and innovation, thanks in large part to Hillary’s designs, which push the envelope with every new collection. Whether it’s the durable gis, no-gi apparel, or custom gear for academies, Inverted Gear products are built to withstand the demands of the sport.

Nelson’s approach to logistics ensures that Inverted Gear remains a trusted partner for athletes and academies worldwide. His attention to detail and commitment to communication help keep everything running smoothly, from production to delivery.

But beyond the products, Inverted Gear has become a symbol of the BJJ community. The brand sponsors athletes, supports academies, and contributes to the growth of Jiu-Jitsu around the world. They’ve always believed in creating an environment where practitioners can thrive—on the mats and in life.

The Future: Continuing the Journey
As Inverted Gear looks to the future, the mission remains the same: to provide the BJJ community with the highest quality gear, foster growth within the sport, and continue to create a space where everyone feels welcome. The story of Nelson and Hillary’s partnership is just the beginning, and the legacy they’ve built together continues to grow.

Their journey from a small basement in February to a global brand is a testament to what passion, hard work, and dedication can achieve. And as Inverted Gear continues to evolve, Nelson and Hillary’s shared vision for the future of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu remains unwavering: to support and elevate the community, one gi at a time.