In order to succeed at any sport, you need assurance in both your skills and your gear. In the sport of wrestling, this means equipping yourself with the top-tier footwear that will unleash your full potential.
As someone who has practiced martial arts for many years, I can attest to the value of having high-quality shoes. The ideal grip, total comfort, and long-lasting quality are all must-haves. These three features are essential for any good wrestling shoe.
Fortunately, we've scoured the web and come up with a list of the 15 best wrestling shoes currently on the market. There are shoes here suitable for competition as well as for those just starting out. We have the right footwear for you, no matter your skill level. Okay, so let's begin.
Top Picks
The best wrestling shoes currently on the market are listed below. We've also researched and reviewed 12 other options that may serve your needs even better.
Wrestlers Who Need Shoes
The use of wrestling shoes has become increasingly important at the elite level. A good pair of shoes is essential for success in this competitive arena.
Choosing the right pair of wrestling shoes from the wide variety available can be a challenge. An inexpensive pair of shoes that provide some level of support and protection is a good idea for a novice amateur wrestler.
But if you're a more seasoned wrestler looking to give yourself an edge, it's money well spent to invest in a pair of high-end shoes with superior grip and flexibility.
Make sure the shoe fits properly before you buy it, no matter the style. After all, nothing is more frustrating than struggling with a pair of uncomfortable shoes.
We've reviewed a wide variety of top-notch wrestling shoes to give you plenty of options.
Review of the Top Wrestling Shoes
1. The ASICS Men's Matflex 6 Wrestling Shoes are the Best Overall Choice.
Ideal for: Professional Wrestling
To a Man's
Sizes go from 6 to 5 – 15
EVA midsole and outsole, mesh lining
Color: Seven distinct choices
The ASICS Men's Matflex 6 Wrestling Shoes are the best all-around option if you're in the market for a pair of wrestling shoes. The performance and longevity you expect can be found in their superior construction and ideal feel.
During a match of wrestling, the last thing you need to be concerned with is your footwear. That is precisely what it is like here. The fact that they have a sock liner that can be removed and washed separately demonstrates their ease of care.
The mesh insole allows air to circulate, reducing perspiration, and the EVA outsole offers exceptional traction. In sum, there is very little about this shoe that I dislike, and it's difficult to find fault with it.
We recommend reading reviews to ensure you get the right size, as some customers have reported problems with the product's fit.
Simply put, these wrestling shoes will increase your chances of victory. You can confidently push your opponent without worrying that you will slip or that your shoes will cut into you.
ASICS has proven once again that they can create the ideal wrestling shoe. Plus, they have a fantastic aesthetic. There is a wide variety of colors to choose from, so you can find one that complements your personal taste. We think these are the finest wrestling shoes currently available.
2. Otomix Weightlifting, Mixed Martial Arts, and Wrestling Shoes Offer the Best Ankle Support.
Appropriate for: Martial artists of varying skill levels
Male sizing only
Range of sizing: 7-15
Leather upper, synthetic lining, and rubber outsole.
Shades of black, grey (both light and dark), red, blue, pink, and pink
These shoes are ideal for me because of the added ankle support they provide. Those who are prone to ankle sprains will benefit from the additional support provided by these shows. It will also help you gain more footing while grappling.
Amazingly, despite their light weight, these wrestling shoes provide extra support. That's great news for speedy wrestlers, since it doesn't require them to slow down their movements.
While the design isn't particularly chic, there are five attractive hues to choose from. These shoes by Otomix are crafted from a mixture of leather and synthetics, which not only contributes to their light weight but also to their impressive durability.
You might worry that it'll be lacking in other areas thanks to the added ankle support, but that's not the case. In addition to everything we've already mentioned, the thin sole still provides an outstanding level of grip.
These shoes excel at wrestling, but they have many other uses as well. They excel at any activity that requires footwear, including weightlifting, deadlifting, and mixed martial arts.
3. The Adidas HVC Wrestling Shoe for Men is the Best Value Option.
Appropriate for: Low-Spending Novices
For males only.
Range of sizes: 10
Rubber outsole and synthetic upper.
Shade: Black
There are still excellent wrestling shoes available if you are just starting out or are on a tight budget. The Adidas HVC wrestling shoes are the best inexpensive option available.
Although they are not the most expensive wrestling shoe, they do not sacrifice quality for their lower price. You know they're going to last because they're made by Adidas, whose reputation for quality is well-deserved.
Because they are made entirely of synthetic materials, these shoes are lightweight without sacrificing durability.
We checked out shoes in size 10, but if you need a different size, they probably carry it. These shoes may be straightforward, but they still manage to capture Adidas' signature look.
These shoes aren't just great for wrestling, though; they also excel at squatting and deadlifting. They are a great investment because they provide comfort no matter what you're doing.
Buying a pair of these is a decision you won't regret. Wrestlers of all skill levels can benefit from these shoes, which are the best inexpensive options available.
4. Ringside Diablo Wrestling Boxing Shoes: The Best for the Fight
Those who enjoy a wide variety of sports
All Genders Welcome
Range of sizes: 2-13
Rubberized upper, breathable mesh, and a patent leather footbed.
Black, red, white, green, and orange are the primary colors.
Do you find equal joy in boxing and wrestling? If that's the case, you can save some cash by purchasing a single pair of shoes that serves both purposes. There are a few pairs of shoes here that could work, but the Ringside pair is the best option.
There is a fine line between flexibility and stability that many low-quality footwear brands fail to strike. Both are available here for those who have a need for them. Their combination of increased stability and maneuverability makes them perfect for offensive players.
We're really impressed by the layout of this place. You can choose from a variety of colors, and the patent leather coating will ensure that you get noticed. You may want to keep looking for a more understated pair of shoes.
There aren't many drawbacks to these wrestling shoes, but many users have complained about sizing issues, so you should be cautious when purchasing a pair. Other than that, it's hard to find fault.
You can confidently pivot and turn on the mat in these Ringside Diablo wrestling boxing shoes without sacrificing comfort, performance, or sweat.
5. ASICS Men's Snapdown 3 Wrestling Shoes Are the Best Option for Wide Feet.
Wrestlers of intermediate skill who have wide feet
For males only.
Range of sizes: 5-14
Fabric upper, mesh lower, and a rubber outsole.
Black/gunmetal and grey/white are the colors.
People with wide feet understand the struggle of finding comfortable footwear. This is frustrating under any circumstances, but especially so when you're trying to win. The good news is that Asics makes a fantastic pair of wrestling shoes.
A wide toe box means that you can wear any size and still feel comfortable while wrestling. Meanwhile, you'll enjoy all the advantages of a high-quality pair of wrestling shoes.
These men's wrestling shoes feature mesh underlays and stitch-down overlays. It all adds up to a shoe that lets in plenty of air, so your feet stay cool and sweat evaporates quickly.
There are only two color options, but both are great choices with fashionable patterns. The thin rubber sole allows the shoe to be lightweight without sacrificing durability or grip.
The shoes can take a beating without breaking down, so you can compete with confidence.
You'll have a solid foundation from which to launch your wrestling career to victory. Wrestlers with wide feet won't find a better pair of shoes anywhere else.
6. ASICS' Kid's Matflex 6 Grade School Wrestling Shoes are the best option for young athletes.
Good for: Budding Wrestlers
Neutral sex.
Range of sizes: 1-13
Synthetic upper, rubber outsole.
Color: ten different options available
These Asics shoes are the best option for parents shopping for a child's first pair of wrestling shoes. They're reasonably priced and work great for school.
They're great for any young wrestler's development and long-lasting enough that you won't have to think about replacing them until they outgrow their current shoe size. Extreme comfort and optimal performance are guaranteed with this outfit.
The EVA sock liner in these best youth wrestling shoes contributes to their comfort by providing cushioning and making them easier to clean. The high ventilation will also cut down on the amount of sweat you produce.
They have a wide variety of colors and a couple of really cool designs for kids who care about looking good. These cool wrestling shoes have received rave reviews from customers and would make a fantastic present for any aspiring wrestler.
7. High School Wrestlers Should Opt for the Nike Men's Inflict 3
Appropriate for: Wrestling in high school
For males only.
Range of sizes: 6-14
Mesh upper, rubber outsole.
Shade: a dark blue and black
We just looked at a pair of shoes that would be great for kids, but these are designed with slightly older kids in mind. You can't go wrong with a pair of Nikes, especially if your child is still growing and developing a passion for the game.
Although it shouldn't be your top priority when purchasing wrestling footwear, style is always appreciated, especially among the younger demographic. You can trust that any pair of Nike shoes you choose from the six presented here will be not only of high quality but also of a very high fashion standard.
So, they look great, which is awesome, but how well do they perform? Thankfully, they also meet all the requirements in that respect. Any wrestler can confidently power off the mat thanks to the combination of the gum rubber outsole and the front strap.
Those who rely on dynamic movement also benefit from the area's high levels of flexibility. You or your kid can also use these shoes for weightlifting, which they will do admirably.
8. Wrestling Shoe for Men: Adidas Mat Wizard 4
Wrestlers who are quick and agile
Sex: Men's
From size 2-16.
Upper made of mesh; outsole made of rubber
There are 14 distinct color choices.
A heavy shoe can be a hindrance if you're lighter than average or have exceptional quickness of foot. These lightweight Adidas shoes are the ones you've been looking for if you care about your performance. A heavyweight, however, may find these to be a viable alternative.
These shoes' design will let you attack with speed and confidence, and navigate the mat with ease while maintaining a secure footing. The sturdy rubber sole and featherweight upper work together to accomplish this.
These patterns are certainly the most daring of the ones we've seen so far. We think they're great, and the variety of colors (including all-black wrestling shoes) is a huge plus. Adidas never disappoints when it comes to fashionable footwear.
Some durability issues have been reported, which is to be expected from such a lightweight shoe. Nonetheless, you can still get the support and grip you need from these wrestling shoes. Together, these features make for yet another excellent choice among wrestling footwear.
9. The Ringside Undefeated Wrestling Boxing Shoes are the Best High Top Wrestling Shoes.
Ankle brace for a variety of sports
All Genders Welcome
Range of sizes: 5-13
Patent leather upper, nylon mesh midsole, and a rubber outsole.
Tone: monochrome
Some wrestlers prefer high-top shoes because of their supportive uppers and fashionable appearance. These high tops, made by Ringside, are ideal for boxing and wrestling.
These high-quality wrestling shoes come in two classic colors—white and black—and a striking patent leather finish, making them a strong contender for the title of "coolest wrestling shoes ever."
You can feel confident in your performance and your appearance in the competition when you wear these shoes.
You'll feel like a true warrior in these, and you'll be able to give it your all in battle. In addition, you won't have to worry about overheating because of the effective air circulation provided by the mesh design.
These shoes are great because they can be used for a variety of martial arts.
10. Vbestlife Martial Art Shoes, the Best Low Top Wrestling Shoes
Fit for: Training in the art of wrestling
All Genders Welcome
Range of sizes: 5-9 5
PU upper, rubber outsole.
Color Scheme: Pure White with Red or Black Accents
We just examined a fantastic high top, but what about the wrestling fans who prefer low tops? If you're looking for more of a minimalist shoe, look no further than these from Vbestlife.
They were made with karate in mind, but you can also use them for other martial arts like boxing, taekwondo, and wrestling. Although they lack the ankle support of dedicated wrestling shoes, they still provide the necessary pliability and grip for the sport.
The careful attention to detail in these shoes is evident in the excellent stitching. It ensures that your shoes will remain together through even the roughest of wrestling maneuvers.
This place is very cozy, too. They're cushiony and have a plasticky feel, so your feet won't feel any pinching. The slip-resistant footwear is great for modern minimalists.
11. WHITIN Men's Cross-Trainers Are The Most Adaptable Wrestling Shoes.
Fitness for multiple sports training
To a Man's
Range of sizing: 7-15
Upper made of mesh; outsole made of rubber
Available in 16 different hues.
To what extent does your interest in fighting extend beyond wrestling? You'll need a versatile wrestling shoe if that's the case. This Whitin shoe delivers exactly that, as it can be used for a wide variety of activities.
Those shoes aren't going to cut it in a professional wrestling match, but they're perfect for training and novices. In order to achieve the perfect look, you can choose from a wide range of colors.
Considering the high standard of convenience and the low asking price, this is an excellent deal. They're anatomically shaped, so they conform to the foot. This aids in preventing painful pinch points.
These shoes aren't designed to accommodate wide feet, but they have more toe and heel room than the average pair of footwear. Their flat, thin soles are perfect for wrestling.
12. The Venum Unisex-Adult Elite Shoes Are The Finest High-Grip Wrestling Shoes Available.
Appropriate for: Power explosions
Neutral sex.
Sizes go from 4 to 16.
Upper made of mesh and rubber; sole made of patent leather.
Available in 9 different hues.
Is it thrilling for you to perform your wrestling moves right off the mat? Do you ever feel like your shoes aren't providing you with a solid enough foundation to fully unleash your strength? If that describes you, then you'll find everything you need in a pair of Venum shoes.
Let's discuss the design of this thing first, before we dive into its features. Venum's boxing gloves, shin guards, and wrestling shoes, to name a few, look great, as do all of their other products. All nine of the colorways are stunning.
They not only look great, but also function wonderfully. Both inside and outside of your shoes, you won't be able to slide around. Both the rubber outsole and the bonded insole work together to keep your foot from sliding around inside the shoe.
This ensures a level of reliability and stability. Added to that is the high level of ankle support you’ll get from the higher stop The shoe's durability and support don't compromise its mobility; it's surprisingly lightweight and quick.
Despite the fact that they are advertised as boxing shoes, any wrestler who wants to make a statement should wear them.
13. COKAFIL Men's Running Shoes, the Best Running Trainers
Appropriate for: Cardiovascular Exercise and Practice
Sex: Men's
From a size 7-13.
Mesh upper with a rubber bottom.
Hue: 18 distinct tones available
Wrestling is difficult as anyone who has tried it can attest. Not only physically, but also mentally, because you'll run out of steam quickly if you're unfit. These shoes are ideal if you want to boost your cardiovascular fitness while also performing well on the practice field.
The design should give you a hint that these aren't competition shoes, but they'd make a great addition to another pair. The convenience and comfort of their clip-on design make them a must-have.
The air quality here is superb. Sweat won't be an issue no matter how far or hard you run or train. The mesh upper aids in this regard by preventing excess moisture buildup. A sweat-wicking honeycomb sole is included.
These shoes are great because they absorb shock very well. Even on a mat, the joints can feel the impact of pure wrestling shoes due to their thin soles, which are necessary for elite performance. You can rest easier knowing that you'll be able to give it your all in any competition thanks to these.
These are a fantastic buy for the money, and the laid-back style makes them appropriate for everyday use.
14. ASICS Women's MATBLAZER Wrestling Shoes are the Best in the Business.
Wrestlers of an advanced skill level.
Feminine gender
Ranging from 5 5 – 14
Upper made of mesh; outsole made of rubber
Three varying color choices
When compared to wrestling shoes for men, there are fewer options for women. Lucky for us, this fantastic pair by Asics is here to fill the void. They state that this is the first pair of wrestling shoes designed specifically for women.
They are available in the typical pinks and purples, as well as a stunning black and gold pair that is sure to please women who prefer a more classic style. You'll look great on the mat no matter what color you go with.
The mat will feel secure under your feet thanks to the superior support of these shoes. With such a solid base, you'll have the assurance you need to give your best performance. The exceptional midfoot support contributes to that assurance as well.
It's no wonder these shoes are so highly regarded, what with their supportive design and lightweight build. They have a circular outsole pattern, like many other Asics wrestling shoes, that has been shown to provide superior grip.
15. The ASICS Unisex Snapdown 2 Wrestling Shoe is the best shoe for wrestling.
For those with a basic to intermediate grasp of the language.
Neutral sex.
Range of sizes: 5 5 – 15
Rubber outsole and synthetic upper.
Color: eight different options available
This unisex shoe from Asics is another excellent choice for women and men. In addition to ensuring everyone's maximum comfort, they also facilitate peak performance. You can confidently purchase one of these thanks to their high quality rating among customers.
They make sense as a mid-tier option in the wrestling shoe market. These are great for novice wrestlers and can even be used by more advanced competitors.
They cost a bit more than bargain wrestling shoes, but they're well worth it. They'll provide the necessary support, airflow, and performance, just like the other pairs here.
That includes the superb hold these traction pods will give you. Even though they're at the bottom of our list, you shouldn't count them out. Moreover, we think they look great, so that's a plus.
Shoe Terms for the Wrestling Ring
Shoes for wrestling are built for tough, competitive athletes who need to be nimble on the mat. Wrestling shoes are designed with unique features to provide the necessary support and traction for this high-impact sport.
Wrestling shoes, for example, typically offer more support and grip than other types of footwear. Wrestling shoes have thinner soles than other athletic shoes; some even have split soles to provide a different gripping experience.
Wrestlers benefit from a better grip and feel on the mat thanks to this design, which also allows for faster, more fluid movement. Having a good pair of wrestling shoes is a must if you plan on competing at a high level.
Top Shoe Manufacturers for Wrestling
There are a plethora of wrestling shoe manufacturers, but not all of them produce high-quality footwear. From our recommendations, you can tell that Asics is the go-to brand when it comes to premium wrestling footwear. They come in many forms, but also many variations on design.
While that may be true, other brands such as Adidas, Ringside, Nike, and Otomix also produce excellent footwear for the sport of wrestling. Rudis wrestling shoes are another great example of a brand we left off this list.
Our top picks for wrestling footwear are as follows:
- Asics
- Adidas
- Ringside
- Nike
- Otomix
Wrestling Shoe Varieties
Wrestling shoes come in a wide range of styles and materials. There are fast ones, ones with extra support, ones that are lightweight and comfortable, and so on.
Naturally, the type of shoe you select will depend on your own individual tastes. However, one must bear in mind that not all footwear is the same.
Knowing your wrestling style and the kind of footwear that will help you perform at your peak is essential when shopping for wrestling shoes.
Wrestling shoes come in a wide variety, so you're bound to find a pair that works for you.
Tips for Choosing the Right Wrestling Shoes
There are a few considerations to make when shopping for wrestling shoes.
The correct size must be selected. It is recommended that you order a half size larger than your normal shoe size when purchasing wrestling shoes. Despite the fact that this is often the case, it is helpful to read user reviews in order to learn what others have to say about sizing.
While some people favor a snugger fit, others put comfort first. It's important to double check your size before making a purchase because the wrong size can have a negative impact on your performance.
Skill Level - The price tag isn't the only distinguishing factor between sneakers for beginners and those for experts. Expert wrestlers place a premium on mat feel and know exactly where their feet need to be at all times.
As a result, wrestling shoes designed for professionals may have unique qualities, such as a thin sole. Beginners have more leeway in terms of equipment because it has less of an impact on their performance.
The fabric from which your shoes will be constructed is an important design consideration. Although leather has traditionally been used, synthetic materials have the advantage of being both lighter and more breathable. The majority of today's footwear styles combine the two.
Choose a pair of shoes with adequate arch support and cushioning. Because of the high impact nature of wrestling, it's important to wear shoes that will keep your feet and ankles safe. If you frequently suffer from ankle sprains, investing in a sturdy pair of high tops is a no-brainer.
Pick a pair of shoes within your financial means. It's important to invest in a durable pair of wrestling shoes that can withstand multiple workouts and competitions.
If money is not a concern of yours and you are just starting out, there is no need to spend a lot on a fancy shoe. Beginners in the sport won't notice much of a difference between low- and high-priced footwear.
It makes sense to put aside money for a shoe that will allow you to perform at a higher level as your skills improve.
FAQs
To what extent do wrestling shoes cost
You can spend anywhere from $30 to $200 or more on a good pair of wrestling shoes. Wrestling shoes designed for professional competitions tend to be the most expensive because of the high quality of the materials used in their construction.
Although they may not last as long or provide as much stability, inexpensive wrestling shoes can still meet the bare minimum requirements for training.
Your budget and level of expertise will determine the appropriate fee. If you're just getting started, a budget of around $50 is a good place to go. A wrestling shoe of this quality can be had for a reasonable price.
How long do wrestling shoes typically last?
How often you wrestle and how well you treat them will determine how long they last. Three times weekly wrestling should give your shoes about six months of wear. Wrestling once a month could make them last a whole year.
Always let your wrestling shoes air out after use, and store them somewhere out of direct sunlight to extend their lifespan. A stiff brush can be used to remove dust and other debris from them after each use.
Wrestling shoes: snug or loose?
Wrestlers have varying preferences. Wrestlers can vary greatly in their preferences for shoe tightness; some want to feel the mat more intimately, while others want more flexibility.
Should I wear my wrestling shoes when I run?
Wrestling shoes are made for various purposes, so answering this question categorically is impossible. Lightweight and flat-soled, wrestling shoes improve a wrestler's agility and grip on the mat.
On the other hand, running shoes have a thicker sole and are heavier overall to provide more cushioning and stability for the wearer.
Wrestling shoes aren't ideal for running in general. If you're going to be running long distances on hard surfaces, you shouldn't wear these shoes because of how thin and flat the sole is.
How true to size are wrestling shoes?
Many customers have complained that wrestling shoes, regardless of brand, are too small. It's common advice to go at least half a size up, but be careful; shoes that are too big can be uncomfortable.
You can get more information on shoe sizes from many retailers, and reading customer reviews is always a good idea. You can tell if people are having fit issues by reading the reviews, where you can also find suggestions.
When wrestling, is it necessary to wear socks?
Wrestlers are encouraged to pair their wrestling shoes with socks. The socks' moisture-wicking properties will help the wrestlers avoid foot infections. In addition, most people will tell you that it simply has a better overall vibe. You'll also find that your wrestling shoes require less upkeep and cleaning as a result.
Consensus Decision
A good pair of wrestling shoes is essential for peak performance at any level of the sport. They will provide the necessary stability and traction while still allowing you to feel the mat and wrestle in comfort.
The Asics Matflex wrestling shoes were the best of many excellent pairs we tried on. They were both fashionable and functional, which was a winning combination. This pair of Asics comes highly recommended from us.
Although the Matflex was fantastic, picking a winner was challenging. The top spot could have gone to any of the other 14 pairs of shoes we tested. Choosing the right wrestling shoes for your level of expertise and experience requires careful consideration of your individual needs.
