About Us
Who is behind Graded and how we got started?
Welcome to Graded Backpacks, where Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu meets innovative design. Our story begins with Nick, a passionate BJJ practitioner whose journey in martial arts has taken him across the globe.
Nick started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2006 under Mike Codella, a Renzo Gracie Black Belt, in Staten Island, New York. It was there that he earned his Blue Belt and developed a deep love for the art. His pursuit of Jiu-Jitsu and MMA led him to train in Brazil, Thailand, South Korea, and beyond, culminating in the achievement of his Brown Belt under Kris Kim in 2014.
After a brief professional MMA career, Nick transitioned into product development, where he honed the skills that would eventually bring Graded Backpacks to life. As a lifelong BJJ practitioner, he recognized a gap in the market: a backpack designed specifically for Jiu-Jitsu enthusiasts that was both functional and reflective of their achievements.
In 2020, along with the help of his partner Dana, the idea for Graded Backpacks was born. Nick envisioned a backpack that wasn’t just practical but also celebrated the sport he loved. The unique concept of using BJJ belts as shoulder straps was inspired by the durability and symbolism of the belts themselves. Why not build a backpack from the same material as the Gi, a fabric that withstands the rigors of training?
Launched in 2023, Graded Backpacks are designed with the needs of BJJ practitioners in mind. Whether you’re heading to the gym, traveling to a competition, or just representing your rank, our backpacks are built to support your journey. With the rise of no-gi Jiu-Jitsu, we wanted to create something that truly resonated with the community—a product that’s as functional as it is fun.
At Graded Backpacks, we believe that while Jiu-Jitsu is a serious sport, there’s always room for a little creativity and pride in your gear. Show off your rank, celebrate your progress, and carry your passion with you wherever you go.
Thank you for being part of our story. Oss!
— The Graded Backpacks Team