If you’ve ever experienced the thrill of wrestling, you know it’s much more than just a sport; it’s a journey of physical and mental fortitude. As you grapple on the mat, wrestling not only sculpts your body into peak physical condition but also sharpens your mind, teaching you the art of resilience and strategy.
In this high-energy arena where every move can turn the tide, the right gear becomes your trusted ally. This is where wrestling shoes come into play. Essential for comfort and performance, they provide the necessary support and grip, making them a vital part of your wrestling arsenal. Whether you’re an experienced wrestler or just starting out, understanding the comfort of quality wrestling shoes may be a key to elevating your game on the mat.
Best wrestling shoes – list
Here, we’ve picked the wrestling shoes on the market by brand, and best wrestling shoes ever made, so you can rock it.
Best Wrestling Shoes for Kids and Youth: ASICS Kid’s Matflex 6 Grade School
Ideal for young athletes, these shoes blend flexibility with support, making them a top pick for kids and youth in wrestling. They’re crafted to withstand rigorous training while ensuring comfort.
- Pros: Lightweight, excellent traction, affordable.
- Cons: Limited ankle support, less suitable for very wide feet.
Best Wrestling Shoes for Wide Feet: ASICS Men’s Snapdown 3
Designed for wrestlers with wider feet, these shoes offer a stable and comfortable fit, enhanced by their durable construction and excellent grip, making them a reliable choice on the mat.
- Pros: Great support, long-lasting, superior grip.
- Cons: Can feel stiff initially, limited color options.
Best Looking Wrestling Shoes: Adidas Mat Wizard Hype
Combining aesthetic appeal with functional performance, these shoes stand out for their stylish design without compromising on fit and traction, suitable for wrestlers who prioritize looks and performance.
- Pros: Visually appealing, snug fit, good traction.
- Cons: Less padding, may be narrow for some.
Best Men’s Wrestling Shoes: ASICS Men’s Aggressor 3
A favorite among serious male wrestlers, known for its exceptional durability and support. These shoes are designed to offer a competitive edge with their superior grip and comfortable fit.
- Pros: Excellent grip, robust construction, comfortable.
- Cons: Higher price point, might be too rigid for some.
Best Wrestling Shoes for Boxing: Ringside Diablo Wrestling Boxing Shoes
Perfect for both wrestling and boxing, these shoes offer versatility with their lightweight design and secure fit. They’re engineered for maximum mobility and stability in the ring.
- Pros: Lightweight, versatile for wrestling and boxing, secure fit.
- Cons: Less ankle support, may wear quickly with heavy use.
Best Women’s Wrestling Shoes: ASICS Women’s MATBLAZER
Specifically tailored for women, these shoes combine comfort with performance, offering a secure fit and excellent traction, ideal for female wrestlers at any level.
- Pros: Gender-specific fit, comfortable, good grip.
- Cons: Limited color options, may run small.
Best Rated Wrestling Shoes: ASICS Men’s Dan Gable Ultimate 4
Named after a wrestling legend, these shoes are designed for top-tier performance, offering unmatched grip and stability, making them a favorite among competitive wrestlers.
- Pros: Excellent grip, durable, great stability.
- Cons: Higher price, can be narrow.
Best Wrestling Shoes for Beginners: ASICS Men’s Matcontrol
A great entry-level shoe, Matcontrol provides the essentials for beginners: comfort, support, and durability, making it an ideal choice for those new to wrestling.
- Pros: Comfortable, supportive, good value.
- Cons: Basic design, limited advanced features.
Best Cheap Budget Wrestling Shoes: Adidas Men’s HVC
An affordable option without sacrificing quality, these shoes offer basic functionality and comfort, suitable for wrestlers on a budget.
- Pros: Budget-friendly, decent grip, comfortable.
- Cons: Less durable than high-end models, basic design.
Best Wrestling Shoes for High School: Nike Mens Inflict 3
Popular in high school wrestling, these shoes blend style, comfort, and performance, offering a good balance for growing athletes.
- Pros: Stylish, comfortable, good traction.
- Cons: May be pricey for some, limited color choices.
Best Wrestling Shoes for Deadlifting/Powerlifting: Otomix Weightlifting MMA & Wrestling Shoes
Designed for multipurpose use, these shoes are ideal for deadlifting, powerlifting, and wrestling, offering stability and support for various strength sports.
- Pros: Versatile for multiple sports, stable, supportive.
- Cons: Heavier than traditional wrestling shoes, higher price point.
Wrestling Shoes with Best Grip: Venum Unisex-Adult Elite Shoes
Known for their exceptional grip, these shoes are designed for wrestlers who prioritize mat traction, offering a secure footing during intense matches.
- Pros: Superior grip, durable, unisex design.
- Cons: May be less flexible, premium price.
Best Wrestling Shoes for BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu): Otomix Men’s Stingray
Ideal for BJJ and wrestling, these shoes provide flexibility and support, suitable for the dynamic movements in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling.
- Pros: Flexible, supportive, good for BJJ and wrestling.
- Cons: Higher price, less ventilation.
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Top Wrestling Shoes Ever Made
The gear you choose becomes an extension of your own prowess. It’s not just about the singlets or the headgear; it’s about the shoes – the foundation upon which every wrestler builds their legacy. In wrestling history, certain shoes have risen above mere footwear to become legends in their own right. These aren’t just shoes; they’re symbols of triumphs and struggles, of victories earned and defeats braved. They carry the stories of Olympic champions and prodigies, of tireless training sessions, and moments that have etched themselves into the very fabric of the sport.
Below we take you through the journey of the greatest wrestling shoes ever made, we’ll uncover not just the technology and design that make them exceptional, but the spirit and stories they embody. From the Asics Rulon Gardners, a name synonymous with one of the greatest upsets in Olympic history, to the Nike Kolats, a rarity in the world of wrestling footwear, each pair has a tale as captivating as the athletes who wore them. These shoes have witnessed the sweat and tears, the relentless drive, and the undying passion that define the soul of wrestling. Learn what the best in the wrestling world were wearing to be the best.
Asics Rulon Gardners
The Asics Rulon Gardners, named after the Olympic champion Rulon Gardner, are a symbol of triumph in the wrestling world. Released in the early 2000s, these shoes commemorate Gardner’s historic victory over Aleksandr Karelin, who was unbeaten for 13 years in international wrestling. The Rulon Gardners are renowned for their exceptional durability and grip, a testament to the design influenced by Gardner himself. They come in various colorways, with the gold/black and red/black released first, followed by orange and blue variants. These shoes are highly sought after in the collectors’ market, with prices for well-preserved pairs reaching up to $800 or more. Known for their long-lasting quality, Asics even adopted the Rulon sole in their Aggressor line, cementing the Rulon Gardners as a legendary wrestling shoe
Might interest you:
Nike Kolats
Nike Kolats, named after wrestling prodigy Cary Kolat, are a rare breed in the wrestling shoe world, given that very few wrestlers have received a shoe deal from Nike. Released in 2000, the “Kolat 2000s” or “OGs” came in blue and silver, as well as black and silver colorways. The shoes were crafted with synthetic leather and are among the most coveted wrestling shoes today. The Kolat line includes various models like Kolat Internationals, Kolat 2k4s, and Kolat Speeds, each distinct in design and colorway. Despite their rarity, these shoes are highly valued in the collectors’ market, with prices often exceeding $500 for well-preserved pairs. The line’s rarity and connection to Cary Kolat’s legacy make them a cherished item among shoe collectors and wrestling enthusiasts.
Asics Aggressors
The Asics Aggressors are a testament to Asics’ dedication to evolving and perfecting their wrestling shoes. Inspired by the legendary Rulon model, the Aggressors are renowned for their unparalleled durability and traction. The Aggressor 4, in particular, showcases a tread model reminiscent of the original Rulon, offering excellent grip and comfort. These shoes feature a high-rising sole for exceptional traction, a redesigned upper with improved breathability, and a classic lacing garage system. The Aggressor line is versatile, catering to both elite wrestlers and beginners. Its variety of colorways and the balance between aesthetics and performance make it a popular choice among wrestlers.
Nike Inflicts
Nike Inflicts stand as one of the most sought-after wrestling shoe lines, known for their distinctive “inflict wave” pattern and unique soles. Growing in popularity since the release of Inflict 2s and 3s, these shoes are a blend of style and functionality. The line includes Original Inflicts and OG Reissue Inflicts, with subtle differences like the lace pocket. The most common colorway is black and gold, and they can fetch a high price in the collectors’ market. The Olympic Inflicts are a rare variant, with originals valued significantly higher than replicas. The Inflict line, especially the first editions of Inflict 3 in specific colorways, are highly prized for their design and performance.
Adidas Combat Speeds
The Adidas Combat Speeds are iconic in the wrestling shoe world, tracing their roots back to the late 1980s. These shoes were not officially named “Combat Speeds” until the 1990s, although similar designs with the same sole were produced in the 1980s. The first official version, the 1988 West Germans, came in three colorways and are highly valued, especially the rare pink variant. The Combat Speeds have evolved over the years, with the Combat Speed 5 being the most recent release. These shoes are celebrated for their history, performance, and design, making them a staple among wrestlers for decades.
Blue and Black Adidas Adistars
The Blue and Black Adidas Adistars are revered for their unique design and performance capabilities. They stand out with their striking color combination and are known for their robust construction, providing wrestlers with a perfect blend of support and flexibility. The Adistars have been a popular choice among wrestlers for their durability and the brand’s commitment to quality.
Asics Pursuits
Asics Pursuits are another landmark in Asics’ legacy of creating high-quality wrestling shoes. These shoes are designed with a focus on agility and speed, making them a favorite among wrestlers who value quick movements and precision on the mat. The Pursuits are known for their lightweight design, superior grip, and comfort, embodying Asics’ commitment to supporting wrestlers in their athletic pursuits.
Adidas Sydney 2000s
The Adidas Sydney 2000s are a special edition wrestling shoe, commemorating the 2000 Sydney Olympics. These shoes are celebrated for their historical significance and unique design, tailored to meet the demands of Olympic-level competition. They provide exceptional support, grip, and flexibility, making them a prized possession for wrestlers and collectors alike, symbolizing a pinnacle moment in Olympic wrestling history.
How to pick the perfect pair of wrestling shoes?
Choosing the perfect pair of wrestling shoes is crucial to performance and comfort on the mat. Here’s my guide to picking the right pair for you:
- Fit and Comfort: The most important aspect is how the shoe fits. Wrestling shoes should fit snugly, but not too tight. There should be minimal space between your toes and the front of the shoe. Remember, they will stretch slightly with use, so a snug fit is key.
- Flexibility and Support: Look for shoes that offer a good balance between flexibility and support. You need enough flexibility to move freely, but enough support to protect your feet during quick movements and turns.
- Grip and Traction: The sole is critical. It should provide excellent traction on the mat to prevent slipping. A well-designed sole enhances your ability to make quick movements and maintain balance.
- Durability: High-quality materials are a must. Wrestling shoes endure a lot of wear and tear, so they need to be durable. Look for reinforced stitching and robust materials that can withstand rigorous training and competitions.
- Weight: Lighter shoes can improve agility and speed, but they shouldn’t sacrifice support. Find a balance that works for your wrestling style.
- Breathability: Good ventilation is essential to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Look for shoes with breathable materials to prevent excessive sweating and discomfort.
- Personal Style: While performance is key, don’t underestimate the importance of liking how your shoes look. A style you love can boost your confidence on the mat.
- Consider Your Wrestling Style: If you’re more aggressive, look for shoes with excellent grip and ankle support. If you’re a speedy wrestler, lighter shoes might be better.
- Size Matters: Wrestling shoes typically run smaller than regular shoes. Always try them on or check size guides carefully. Remember, the fit will differ between brands.
- Budget: Set a budget but be willing to invest in quality. Cheap shoes might save money short-term but could cost more in the long run if they need frequent replacement.
What is the best brand of wrestling shoes?
Are you a fan of a specific brand? Below we’ve categorized the best wrestling shoes by brands, so you can easily find your favorite among the list:
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