I’ve grappled all my life, from a D1 wrestler, to years of training in SOCP. While never straight Jiujitsu, the principles still apply.
In your first year or two, I would say it depends on your age. Recovery time comes into play in your 30’s. Gear will help with that. But if you’re in your 20’s, you need to be focused on technique. Sure, gear can help with the strength aspect. But that’s all relative to your own body. And technique will win over strength almost every time. If you have two equally matched combatants, then yes, the gear can give you an advantage. The question is, are you trying to compete in this professionally? If so… then valid question. If you’re just training for self defense, then why even worry?