Wrestling shoes are important whether you're training for the Olympics or the junior varsity at your local high school. Wrestling gloves are advantageous because they improve your grip, prevent injury, and make the experience more pleasant. This guide was made to help you find the best wrestling shoes for your specific needs.
What Makes Wrestling Shoes So Critical
Let's be straight with one another It's not a particularly well-known market. The importance of proper footwear in the sport of wrestling is often overlooked. Although wrestling shoes are often overlooked, they can provide a significant strategic advantage. As a matter of fact, they might be the single most crucial piece of wrestling equipment for any given competitor.
When it comes to stabilizing and supporting the feet and ankles, wrestling shoes are specially designed to help. When you do this, your feet won't slip on the mat even when you're really working up a sweat. Wrestling shoes, in addition, offer additional ankle support. When wearing these, you won't have to worry about your ankles rolling or spraining when making sudden, jarring movements.
In the course of a high-intensity wrestling match, the amount of traction typically required can be staggeringly enormous. Good wrestling shoes grip the mat and aid in the wrestler's stability in all directions.
There is a wide variety of wrestling footwear available to suit everyone from novices to professionals. Wrestlers who invest in a high-quality pair of shoes are better equipped to reach their full athletic potential and improve their performances.
For both experienced wrestlers and novices, wrestling shoes are available in a wide range of sizes. In addition, they come in a wide variety of materials, patterns, and hues, giving wrestlers plenty of options.
Check out our top picks for the best wrestling shoes on the market right now! Extensive study and development led to these recommendations. On our own, we conducted tests. Furthermore, we compiled testimonials from a wide variety of authoritative websites all over the web. There are three brands dominating the top ten, and they are all represented here: adidas, ASICS, and Nike. This is not a fluke. Wrestling shoes from these companies are the best on the market.
Recommended Wrestling Shoes from ShoeGuide.com
1. adidas Fall 2 Tech Zero - Currently, The Top Wrestling Shoes On the Market
Introducing: the adidas Tech Fall 2 If you're looking for the best wrestling shoes, look no further than the number 0. After a long day in the ring and on the sidelines, these high-quality shoes' impressive combination of synthetic materials and mesh will come in handy.
In addition, the Technology Decline 2 During a wrestling match, those wearing 0 have a good balance of slippery and grip to execute nearly any maneuver.
The shoe's stability also makes it a fan favorite among mixed-martial-arts (MMA) fighters and boxers, despite the fact that we'll emphasize further down that boxing shoes are not wrestling shoes.
Wrestling shoes with a size range that matches that of casual and running shoes means that even those with larger feet can wear them without worrying about getting a too-small pair. These shoes, made of high-tech mesh, have the quickest drying time of any footwear we tested. However, due to the difficulty in cleaning them, they quickly become soiled. At 1 pound, these shoes are on the lighter end of the wrestling footwear we recommend. Each pair costs 3 pounds.
2.Asics JB Elite V
When comparing wrestling shoes, the ASICS JB Elite V consistently ranks near the top in user reviews. When compared to shoes without a split sole, this one has better friction, grip, and flexibility in the heel and toe areas. The JB Elite V's sole design gives the shoe an exceptionally adaptable feel that makes it nimble and responsive, giving the wearer an advantage over competitors who use wrestling shoes of lower quality.
Because of the shoe's thinner tongue, the front of the foot is less constrained, which reduces the risk of cramping, while the ankle region remains securely fastened. In addition, Asics intended for this shoe to be laced quickly. We did find that the split sole has a tendency to peel away from the shoe over time, though. Whether this is a widespread problem that Asics plans to fix in future iterations of the shoe or a fluke remains to be seen. Furthermore, at 1 pound, these footwear are on the heftier side. 7 total ounces for the couple
The Third Nike Inflict
When compiling a list of the best wrestling shoes, it is impossible to leave out at least a pair from Nike. Based on our evaluations, we have selected the Nike Inflict 3 as the top model in the Nike lineup. But don't write off a couple other Nike shoes that show up a little further down the list if you find that they meet your particular needs. The most recent iteration of this shoe has a superior design and a price tag that falls somewhere in the middle of the alternatives we've provided here.
The shoes weigh just under 1.5 pounds per pair and have all the features you'd want in a wrestling shoe, such as:
- Within the boots are compression fitting systems.
- Built-in storage for lace
- Improved traction and mobility thanks to the sole's split design.
- Upper made of synthetic materials, mesh at the ankle
- Completely rethought outsole structure to maximize mobility.
- Surfaces optimized for traction, designed with the mobile wrestler in mind
We struggled with the only complaint that has been voiced so far, which is that the sizing runs a bit small compared to the conventional size-down strategy for choosing wrestling shoes. It's recommended that you order two sizes and return the one that doesn't work.
Four. adidas HVC 2
Adidas HVC 2 is a wrestling shoe that gives the wearer a feel reminiscent of the original Combat Speed from the 1970s. They have a classic design, are available in a rainbow of hues, and let a dedicated wrestler channel their inner Dan Gable as they step onto the mat. These Adidas shoes were made with the wrestler's quick feet and nimble movements in mind. The wrestler can use this to their advantage right away. A reduced likelihood of ankle injury is guaranteed by the support.
We recommend these shoes as part of our comprehensive guide to buying quality wrestling footwear because they come in a wide range of sizes for kids. Those with flat feet or fallen arches will appreciate the added support provided by their sturdy soles. The HVC 2 has made a name for itself as a versatile shoe due to its ability to serve two purposes: as a lightweight, high-grip shoe for martial artists, and as a running shoe. Quality is low, but you get what you pay for with wrestling shoes. Additionally, at only 1 2 pounds
5.adidas Fight Night V
Adidas's Combat Speed 5 is an improvement over the previous model. Our Ultimate Guide to Buying Wrestling Shoes gave it high marks, and with good reason. This sneaker's design is decidedly retro, recalling the look of classic Adidas runners from the past. It's available in three of the most popular colors, and its low starting price makes it a great choice for high school and collegiate athletes on a budget who must adhere to strict color requirements.
Improved grip, a sleeker design, and tougher materials set the Combat Speed 5 apart from its predecessor, the Combat Speed 4.
These are special wrestling shoes with a single sole. Wrestlers benefit from the Combat Speed 5's superior tightness around the ankle, which allows for ample support during fast movements on the mat. Wrestlers with fallen arches or flat feet benefit from the soles' increased thickness. These shoes, like their forerunner, are featherlight (at 1 Each pair weighs 2 pounds. Despite having a leather and mesh upper and a Velcro ankle strap closure, these feel remarkably lightweight on the feet in comparison to the alternatives we've provided. This is the best shoe in terms of value for money and quality.
6-inch Asics Matflex
Asics has produced a fantastic shoe in the Matflex 6. The shoe weighs in at 1 7 pounds This split-sole shoe does not have sufficient padding in the sole. Since these wrestling shoes don't have as much padding as some of the others on our list, they might not be the best choice if you have flat feet (see our article on the Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet for more information).
The thinner sole of the ASICS Matflex 6 improves the wrestler's connection with the mat. As a result, this offers not only better grip but also more traction. Consequently, this shoe is also great for use in boxing.
There are two key takeaways from testimonials about this footwear:
- Ball-of-foot blisters may develop from prolonged use of the Matflex 6.
- Similar to other types of wrestling footwear, these shoes tend to be on the diminutive side. If you normally wear a size 7 or 7.5 in casual or running shoes, we recommend going down to a size 6 or 6.5.
7th Place: adidas Mat Hog 2 0
Adidas's Mat Hog 2 Their new number zero is a significant improvement over their previous number one. 0 version There are seven lacing eyelets to choose from on this shoe. This allows the wrestler to customize the tightness of the shoe against the foot and ankle, with a wide range of lacing options available. This is appealing because it provides a wide range of personalization options. Wrestlers looking for extra support can tighten the laces, while those who need more room for their feet can loosen them.
These shoes' uppers are made from a synthetic material and open mesh, which gives the wrestler better breathability and performance while also actively wicking moisture away from the foot.
Given that these are not mesh shoes, the inclusion of a moisture-wicking liner is much appreciated. However, some reviews point out that the sole is very slippery. There is a signature of Cael Sanderson on the back of the non-split sole. The weight of these shoes, at 1.5 pounds, is about average.
Men's Asics Aggressor 4 (Size 8)
Among the wrestling shoes we tested, the ASICS Aggressor 4 was the most fashionable. You can wear these shoes on or off the mat because of how fashionable they are. For the sake of your feet, we recommend that you not wander around in wrestling shoes. These shoes' asymmetrical Duosole sole design partially compensates for the sacrifice of flexibility necessitated by the suede and Ecsaine upper, breathable mesh tongue, and non-split rubber outsole.
The shoelaces can be tucked into the shoe's side pockets. We call this practical and strategic addition an "integrated lace garage" and it is discussed in the final section of this manual. Being suede, the stitching is as thick and long-lasting as you'd expect from an ASICS product. Suede, however, has some drawbacks, chief among them being that it doesn't allow the skin to breathe very well. The 1 ounce weight of these footwear is on the low end. Weighting in at just 4 pounds, it's ideal for training in agility.
The Nike Speed Sweep VII, Rank #9
When it comes to price and features, the Nike Speed Sweep VII sits squarely in the sweet spot. Unexpectedly, they have excellent traction, and their level of comfort is among the highest we tested. With feedback from the wrestling community, Nike improved the design of the previous version of these shoes. You can choose from four different color combinations, and the pair weighs just under 1.5 pounds.
The upper is made from a breathable mesh and the design is a one-piece. The asymmetrical lacing design and built-in lace garage prevent wrestling competitors from tripping over their laces or scratching each other. This is a great new addition to our list of the best quality wrestling shoes because it is a solid wrestling shoe with a great mid-range in all regards.
Socks and Shoes for Wrestling: What Are the Options?
Wrestlers can pick from a wide variety of footwear styles. In terms of value, the items on the list above barely scratch the surface. But aren't these just regular sneakers for the gym? To what extent do they vary? Get right into it, shall we? Extra details on shoe anatomy as a whole are also available.
Unlike other types of footwear, wrestling shoes are made to closely resemble the human form. They were designed to mimic the experience of walking around barefoot, so they're pliable and lightweight. Wrestlers need toe and toenail protection because they are constantly bending and getting close to one another.
Wrestling shoes, as we covered above, are of a higher quality and a different design than regular running shoes. The majority of wrestling shoes are high-tops. Wrestlers and other athletes who engage in a lot of bending and twisting throughout a match or session of practice can benefit from these high-top shoes' ability to keep their ankles from rolling or spraining. Wrestlers frequently suffer these kinds of injuries when they lock their lower legs in a wide range of wrestling moves.
The soles of many wrestling shoes are made of rubber. The traction offered by these rubberized materials is unparalleled to that of any other For anyone who has ever taken a gym class, the slick surface of the wrestling mats will be all too familiar. When the mat is freshly cleaned or sticky with sweat, this becomes an even bigger issue. Wearing shoes that will keep you from slipping on these surfaces is crucial.
Some wrestling shoes, including a few on our list, have spikes embedded in the soles. The additional grip provided by the studs in these soles is an advantage over that of traditional rubber soles. All wrestling shoes, not just the ones we carry by ASICS and Adidas, have these slip-prevention features.
Wrestling footwear is typically divided into two styles, split sole and non-split sole. Let's compare and contrast some of these two.
Split Sole
Split sole wrestling shoes feature a sole that has been strategically divided down the middle. The bottom of the shoe looks like a regular rubber sole. The only real change is that the sole rubber has been split in half to create a front and back.
The benefit of this is that bending the shoe in half while holding it in your hands is possible. The rubber components of the sole do not reach all the way across the bottom of the shoe, so split sole options are the most realistic wrestling shoe to going barefoot.
Split soles are preferred for wrestling because of the extreme flexibility they provide. Wrestlers who wear split-sole shoes have an advantage over their non-split-soled competitors because they are nimbler and more responsive while wearing them. Because of this, many top-level wrestlers and Olympic competitors prefer to wrestle in shoes with a split sole.
The Uniform Sole
As a conclusion to what was stated above regarding split sole wrestling shoes, non-split sole shoes are the full package. The sole of these shoes is a continuous piece of rubber that runs the entire length of the shoe's bottom. You may also hear these called "unisole" shoes.
Although non-split sole wrestling shoes are not as flexible as split soles, they are still very light and give the wrestler good mobility and maneuverability.
Durability is a major factor in why wrestlers prefer non-split sole shoes over split sole options. These footwear options are typically much more long-lasting than their split sole counterparts.
If you're on a tighter budget and can't afford to buy new wrestling shoes every few months, non-split sole shoes are the best option. Still, they are quite strong and sturdy, if a little less bendy than the alternative.
The advantages and disadvantages of split sole and non-split sole shoes are different. It's critical to put both to the test by trying them on and gauging how you feel and how much freedom of movement you have in each.
Warning: It's a Lie That Wrestling Shoes Can Be Used for Boxing
This has happened far too often. It's important to note that wrestling shoes and boxing shoes serve different purposes. In this article from MMA Gear Addict, we'll look at the differences between the two. Never confuse the two or treat them as if they were the same thing.
Boxing shoes, in contrast to other athletic footwear, do not have high arches. Furthermore, a wrestling mat is not the intended surface for the traction control found on the bottom of boxing shoes. This may not seem important at first, but when compared to the contortions and hyperextensions used by wrestlers, the difference between what a boxer does and what a wrestler does, the bigger picture becomes quite clear. When it comes to getting off the ground quickly, boxing shoes aren't the best option.
Boxing shoes and wrestling shoes have vastly different rubber outsole patterns. Conversely, wrestling footwear features more elaborate circular patterns at the sole. Wrestlers benefit from these because they allow them to get a better grip on the mat from a variety of angles, much like the ribbed foot pattern of a gecko or lizard. Contrarily, boxing shoes come in a variety of designs to accommodate the unique stance and movement of each boxer during sparring.
A single pair of shoes for both boxing and wrestling may seem like a practical and cost-saving choice, but the sports require very different footwear. Getting a good pair of wrestling shoes should be a top priority.
How to Pick the Perfect Pair of Wrestling Shoes
You may be thinking, "This is great and all, but how do I go about choosing the best pair to suit my specific needs?" To help, let's take a closer look at the first steps toward narrowing down your wrestling shoe options.
Put yourself in this position and ask these
Firstly, let's cover the fundamentals. Have you made up your mind to do this? So, how dedicated are you, if at all? Do you have an insatiable need for the mat and the whistle? Or perhaps you're just a high school newbie looking for something to do in your spare time that might earn you some admiration from your peers.
A good pair of wrestling shoes is an investment, so answering these questions honestly will help. Spending a lot of money on wrestling shoes may not be worth it if you aren't planning on sticking with the sport for the long haul. One mistake on the mat, however, can easily be the difference between a win and a loss if you're trying to win a scholarship or compete at a professional level.
When it comes to finding the perfect pair of wrestling shoes, everyone has different requirements. Comfort should be the primary consideration. Test out the footwear. Wear them Use them Exercises with them Stroll around in them Do they seem natural, like they belong there? Excellent! You should definitely keep them and use them to propel you to victory in the wrestling arena.
The choice of wrestling footwear is not one to be made lightly. It's serious business, and success on the mat is inversely proportional to the quality of footwear worn. You'll notice a distinct shift in the shoe's grip on your foot and an enhanced ability to stick to the mat. You will be able to tell if it is encouraging or discouraging.
Wear What You Like
When comparing different wrestling shoe options, one of the most crucial factors to consider is the shoe's fit. Wrestling shoes don't have the same kind of lacing system as regular shoes or even sneakers, so they have to be fitted differently. A wrestling shoe has a custom fit that is narrow and high all over the foot.
Cooking with gas if the shoe fits like a glove. If you have room for two fingers in between your shoe and ankle, you should probably go down a size. The sizing is likely to be different from what you're used to with regular footwear. When making a purchase, it is important to keep this in mind and to read reviews. The general rule of thumb is to get a shoe that is half a size to a size smaller than what you normally wear for running.
When making quick, jerky movements on the mat, a wrestling shoe that feels too loose can be a match loser. The wrestler's ability to maintain balance and stability and maintain a steady rhythm will be severely compromised. Athletes' ankles won't get the support they need. This may feel too snug at first, but with time and wear, the shoe will loosen up and become more comfortable.
We won't go into great detail, but heavyweight wrestlers don't need shoes with as much give as those in the lightest and middleweight divisions. In wrestling, heavier competitors place less emphasis on quickness and agility.
Assisting Your Ankles is a Priority, and Wrestling Shoes Deliver
Once you've found a pair of shoes that seems like a perfect match, you should check to make sure they provide adequate ankle support. Wrestling shoes are unique among footwear in that they offer such support.
Wrestlers' ankles take a lot of punishment during sparring. High-top wrestling shoes are a blessing because of the tremendous force exerted on the ankles when changing directions.
When it comes to wrestling shoes, the lacing styles contribute to the overall support they offer. Tight lacing around the ankles is essential for a wrestler. Some wrestling shoes even go the extra mile by including a strap across the forefoot to add an extra layer of support for the wrestler's ankles.
Relevant Factors
The wrestling shoe's construction material is the next crucial factor to think about. Variety of materials The primary consideration should be whether or not the material slows down your movements too much. A wrestler's foot speed will increase in proportion to the lightness of the material used to make their shoes.
Materials like mesh, leather, nylon, and suede are commonplace in these footwear styles. The sweat that would otherwise accumulate in the shoe is dissipated thanks to the breathability of the materials you select.
The price of a pair of shoes is often indicative of the materials used to construct them. Leather and suede are common in high-end and expensive footwear. Mesh with vents will likely be used for the mid-tier options. Even the cheapest, entry-level wrestling shoes are almost always made of a nylon and vented mesh combination.
- Suede and leather, which are used in more expensive options, do not allow much perspiration to evaporate. However, they hold up to repeated uses without losing their shape or comfort.
- Typically, the mid-tier offerings have the highest moisture resistance and best wicking.
- If your feet are still growing, the less expensive options are fine. And for those who are just getting started in the sport of wrestling, this is a great place to begin! These alternatives are much more budget-friendly and make for great first pairs of shoes. It's time to upgrade your wrestling shoes if you've noticed a rise in your proficiency on the mat. Keep in mind that none of the footwear we've already recommended fits this description.
Wrestling Shoes' Design Considerations
Wrestling shoes' style is less important than their functionality. Nonetheless, they are still important factors to think about when picking out a great wrestling shoe. Keep in mind that your team may have rules about what footwear is acceptable for play. Wrestling shoe color standardization could be important if design restrictions were unnecessary.
However, there is nothing to worry about It's possible to find wrestling shoes in a wide range of designs and hues. Additionally, these footwear items come in a wide array of brand names and styles. You can use them for strength training, power lifting, and other activities besides just boxing and mixed martial arts. Don't take them out for a jog on the gravel, though.
Having a shoe that looks good on the feet encourages the wearer to wear them beyond the wrestling mat, which increases the shoe's overall usefulness.
Some Extra Factors to Think About
Besides the aforementioned factors, there are a few others that should be taken into account when shopping for a good pair of wrestling shoes.
The durability of the stitching is one such quality. The term "stitch strength" refers to the resilience with which a shoe's fabric or material stays put. Considering the high degree of motion involved in wrestling sparring, this is even more important for wrestling shoes than it is for, say, casual or running shoes.
The stitching on a pair of wrestling shoes can make or break them, so it's important to buy high-quality footwear.
When shopping for wrestling shoes, asymmetrical lacing is another important feature to look for. It is a design choice by some shoemakers to leave the front eyelets unlined. The wrestler can make a tighter knot with these laces than they could with traditionally lined laces. If you're going to be doing a lot of pivoting, this will give your ankles a little extra support.
And last but not least, there is a convenient feature known as an "integrated lace garage." The aglets, or plastic tips, of the shoelaces are hidden away inside the shoe. Because these aglets can cause serious scratches or scrapes to your opponent if they aren't fastened, this is more of a safety feature than anything else.
This built-in lace storage compartment also helps you avoid tripping over your laces during a game.
In Conclusion
You now have an idea of what to look for in a good pair of wrestling shoes, what to avoid, and some fantastic recommendations based on our extensive testing and research. There is no time like the present to go out and acquire a set.
If you keep in mind the aforementioned ideas, characteristics, and reviews, you should have no trouble locating a fantastic pair of wrestling shoes that serves your needs. However, before you buy, you should walk around in the shoes and get a feel for how they fit. Do not feel bad about being picky on this matter.
Check out the rest of our website's Shoe Guide today if you're interested in reading more in-depth guides for other shoe types and eventually overhauling your wardrobe with the perfect shoes for every situation. We wish you a pleasant shopping experience.
