Wrestling shoes are an important aspect when purchasing your wrestling gear. They are designed to deliver on durability as well as performance. However, to meet this objective, you need to identify the best wrestling shoes to suit your needs. There are a number of brands and models in the market all looking to design wrestling shoes. If you are looking for the good wrestling shoes, the following guide outlines what you should address and recommends some of the best wrestling shoe models in the market.
Top 10 best wrestling shoes in Current Market
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Top 5 Recommended best Wrestling Shoes
The ASICS Aggressor 3 comes recommended for the serious wrestler. It is feature-packed to help meet the needs and preferences of a serious wrestler. With this, you will be stable on the ground, reducing the risk of an accident. They also offer great fitting with the effort of boosting your comfort and therefore, preventing distractions. While they deliver on functionality, they also have a great design. Many may consider this pair of shoes to be expensive, but the cost is just right considering the benefits it offers. This is considered one of the best wrestling shoes of all time.
Special Features
Durable synthetic material with rubber sole
The body is made from synthetic material, which is not only strong and durable but also easy to clean. A rubber sole accompanies this, which is flexible allowing for easy movement when you are in the ring. This combination ensures that it serves you in the long-term.
Convenient lace garage
This pair of shoes comes with a lace closure to help you fasten it so you have a great fit. Considering that different individuals will have different fitting, it comes with long laces. In an effort to ensure that the laces are not exposed, it features a lace garage. This will keep the laces tacked in and prevent tripping.
Duo sole outsole
It features a duo sole outsole, which plays the role of reducing weight while at the same time boosting flexibility. This feature is also responsible for maintaining traction with the aim of retaining stability. This reduces the chance of accidentally tripping.
Lightweight thus easing maneuverability
With a lightweight pair of shoes, you will be able to maneuver in varying positions with ease. Maneuverability comes with flexibility and allows you to move without feeling the extra load.
Pros
Cons
The Adidas Men’s Combat Speed 4 takes up one of the best positions as it delivers on functionality, comfort, as well as flexibility. It is feature rich to ensure that you can take on your opponent without worrying of accidents. Other than functionality, they also come with a great design. In an effort to meet individual likes and preferences, these shoes come in a great design with quite a number of colors to choose from. Looking at its key features, it is strong and durable while at the same time boosting ease in maneuverability.
Special Features
Durable leather material with rubber sole
The body of the shoe is made from leather material. This material is strong and durable and requires easy maintenance. This material is also breathable allowing you to keep going even during the hot seasons. The sole is made from rubber making it flexible. This also boosts maneuverability.
Breathable mesh lining and TPU stripe support
In an effort to further boost breathability, it comes with a breathable mesh lining. A TPU stripe accompanies this to help provide better support.
Split suede outsole with EVA midsole
If you are looking to achieve the right amount of spin on the mat, this is a great feature to consider. In an effort to boost comfort, it features an EVA midsole. The midsole also promotes a sock-like fit.
Hoop and loop ankle strap closure
It comes with laces to help you fasten it in an effort to provide a better fitting. In an effort to keep the laces in position, it has hoop and loop ankle strap.
Pros
Cons
The Adidas Performance Men's Adizero Wrestling XIV Wrestling Shoes are recommended for the elite level wrestlers or serious wrestler. This shoe is recognized as the signature-wrestling shoe for Jake Varner. While they deliver on functionality and performance, they also come with a great design and color combination to suit individual preferences.
Special Features
Synthetic and textile material on body
The body is made of synthetic material with patches of textile. This combination not only makes it strong and durable but also helps to boost performance. With simple maintenance, it will serve you in the long-term.
Durable yet flexible rubber sole
The outsole is made from rubber. This material is durable and flexible so it helps to make the right movement on the mat. It also offers a firm grip on the mat.
Die-cut EVA midsole
In an effort to ensure comfort, it features a die-cut EVA midsole that provides sufficient cushioning. Other than comfort, it also allows for ventilation thus boosting maneuverability.
Compact lightweight design
This shoes offer a compact design that will provide a great fit while at the same time remaining lightweight to ease with maneuverability.
Pros
Cons
The ASICS Men's Cael V7.0 Wrestling Shoe boosts its functionality by boosting performance as well as breathability. Considering that it was named after the Olympic gold medalist Cael Sanderson, you can be sure that it comes with great features and specifications. While it performs well on the mat, it also has a great. While there are other series of this shoe, this V7.0 model aims at improving performance and meeting the needs and specifications of serious wrestlers.
Special Features
Durable leather and synthetic body with rubber sole
The body is made from a combination of leather and synthetic materials each patched strategically to help boost functionality. The leather material promotes breathability. The material combination enhances durability.
Ecsaine and open mesh upper
This feature comes in handy in boosting breathability. It will control your sweating thus helping to keep your feet dry. This is important in wrestling as it prevents discomfort and allows you to concentrate on the match.
Convenient lace garage
This pair of shoes comes with a lace closure to help you fasten it so you have a great fit. Considering that different individuals will have different fitting, it comes with long laces. In an effort to ensure that the laces are not exposed, it features a lace garage. This will keep the laces tacked in and prevent tripping.
Flexible split sole design
This sole design plays a major role in ensuring comfort.
Pros
Cons
The Adidas Wrestling Men's Response 3.1 Wrestling Shoe is highly recommended for the advanced wrestler. They are strong durable, lightweight, as well as comfortable. They also offer great fitting with the effort of boosting your comfort and therefore, preventing distractions. While they deliver on functionality, they also have a great design with outstanding color variations.
Special Features
Durable synthetic and fabric material body
In an effort to boost durability as well as performance, this pair of shoes is made from a synthetic material with some fabric to boost breath-ability.
Rubber thick outsole
The outsole is made from thick rubber. Rubber material is known to be flexible and this allows wrestlers to move their feet in any direction with ease while at the same time ensuring that its structure remains good as new.
Lace closure
These pair of shoes features a lace closure to help you fasten it so you have a great fit and remain in position. Considering that different individuals will have different fitting, it comes with long laces to ensure that you do not run out of lace.
3-layer spacer design
This design promotes adequate ventilation. This is an ideal feature especially during the hot seasons as it will keep you dry and prevent discomfort.
Pros
Cons
If you are serious about wrestling but you are on a tight budget, this ASICS Matflex 5 is here to back you up. It’s an entry level mid-top designed shoe. But, they didn’t compromise on comfort or durability. ASICS is known for making wrestling shoes, so they know what their users want. This shoe is also used for boxing and weightlifting. It’s light on the feet, comfortable and breaks in quickly. If you are not wrestling, you can use it as a gym shoe or do some light cardio workout with the Matflex 5 by ASICS. At this price range, it makes a pretty good deal.
Special Features
Durable suede material with mesh lining
Most of the ASIC shoes are designed this way. It makes their shoes really light and flexible. They break in easy. On the toe, it’s very flexible. The mesh lining gives a good airflow so that your feet won’t sweat much.
Flexible gum rubber sole
This pair has a pretty interesting sole design. It’s quite unique, to be honest. It has got some round ball pivot points and linings edged in the sole. It’s thick and made for giving you a good grip on the rubber mat. It’ll even reduce your chances of slipping on any surface other than a mat.
Lightweight and breathable linings
It has a good generic design. The tongue is light and flexible. Just like any other low to mid-top shoes, you won’t have great ankle support. So, keep that in mind when you buy a pair of these. The mesh lining gives a good breath-ability though. Which makes up for the lack of ankle support.
Faster getting in and out of these shoes
While these shoes don’t have a velcro-strap, the lace on these shoes provides good support and firm grip. You can put it on fast and take them off fast.
Pros
Cons
Jordan Burroughs. The man, the myth, the legend. This ASICS Men’s JB Elite is his signature shoe. These were designed for world and Olympic champion. Stunning looking wrestling shoes by ASICS. It has a very lightweight design and made out of a very durable and breathable mesh. The synthetic overlays really create a secure fit which is kind of a big deal for a wrestling shoe. It has a nice sleek and seamless design that gives these shoes a premium look. With the JB Elite, you’ll get the mobility and the flexibility you need without sacrificing durability.
Special Features
Designed for the best
This version of the JB elite comes with a split rubber sole design. FYI there are three versions out there. But each with their unique style and features. It gives the wrestler great flexibility while keeping a seamless look. If you already got the skills, all you need is a good shoe to help you on your way.
Neo-retro upper with a breathable lining
The upper is made out of synthetic leather. There is a durable single layered mesh lined with the TPU overlays which gives the required comfort without sacrificing ASICS famous durability. Seamless all the way.
Durable suede without losing comfort
It comes with a durable skin suede with seamless single layer breathable mesh on top. You’ll have unrivaled durability which will last through the season without any major damage to the shoe.
Comfortable footbed and integrated lace guard
It’s time to take a look at the inner section of these shoes. Inside, you’ll get ventilated panel as well as a cushioned foot-bed for increased comfort. The lace garage keeps the rope laces out of the way.
Pros
Cons
Take your wrestling game to the next level with the ASICS Men's Aggressor 2 Wrestling Shoe. The Aggressor series has made a solid reputation over the past years. Not only they look gorgeous right out of the box, they are also highly functional. Most probably the only pair in the ASIC wrestling shoe line up that doesn’t snap after a single season of intense wrestling training. Put them on, get compliments by your mates and kick your wrestling skills up a notch with the new and improved Aggressor 2 Wrestling Shoe by ASICS.
Special Features
Lightweight and enhanced flexibility
This radical wrestling shoe is flexible in construction. On the upper, it uses sued textile-like material with plenty of detailed stitching. The high riding heel and forefoot sections provide a solid grip in any position.
Padded collar and tongue
The Aggressor 2 comes with a lightly padded collar and tongue for added comfort. A breathable fabric on the inside for comfort. Not the most padded shoes out there but the support and grip it gives makes up for it.
Good traction with great durability
It has a super sticky and aggressive duosole outsole. The synthetic material used in the construction will give you long lasting durability and a really secure fit once you lace up. You’ll have a good grip at the bottom and at the sides as well.
Lace-up closure with hook and loop strap
Rather than using the standard lace-garage, it has a lace-up closure with a hook and loop strap. You’ll have a proper fit with this one. In the tongue section, you have plenty room to stick your excess laces.
Pros
Cons
You can’t simply ignore the Dan Gable Ultimate 4. Brought to you by ASICS, this split sole wrestling shoe has a synthetic design which makes them lightweight and very supportive. It’ll give you a real sensory feel. Dan Gable Ultimate 4 has great stability and comfort. It has a low-profile midsole and outsole design. You’ll be quicker on your feet, you don’t have to worry about traction and most important of them all, your feet won’t swell up in these shoes. It’s named after Dan Gable, so let’s see if it lives up to the name.
Special Features
Split sole design for maximum flexibility
The rubber sole will give you great traction on the mat. You don’t have to worry about slipping. If you look at the bottom of these shoes, you’ll see the unique traction zones which are specifically designed for wrestlers. In terms of flexibility and grip, this outsole is the best in its class.
Exceptional fit with structural support
It has an exceptional fit. ASICS calls it their “compression-fit bootie system. It has polyurethane injected areas around the front and at the back around the heel to give you a little more structural support.
Padded around the ankle with breathable lining
It has a nice cushioning around the ankle section to give you some support. The padding around the collar is very soft. Inside the shoes, you’ll have a cushioned footbed. The soft lining will give you plenty of breathability.
Uniquely designed lace garage
On the tongue, there is a little lace guard. It’s smaller than most other shoes in this list but works like a charm. No more laces hanging out of your shoes, tuck them in and you don’t have to worry about your laces during the match.
Pros
Cons
It’s just hard to go wrong with this classic Adidas wrestling shoe. The HVC2 speed shoe is all about performance with a touch of modern style. The traditional Adidas logo on the sides with unmatched quality in construction makes these shoes a great value for your buck. Synthetic material all the way with mesh lining that offers durability, comfort and lighter in weight. With the full-length hard rubber sole and three neatly placed ball bearings aka pivot points, you will get maximum grip and flexibility out of these shoes.
Special Features
Durable synthetic leather & synthetic suede
The upper body of this shoe is made using a durable synthetic leather and suede that not only increases the longevity but also makes it much lighter than its predecessor. It’ll offer you long-lasting support and won’t snap during your match.
Breathable single layer mesh for comfort
Open mesh design that allows more room for your feet to breathe. The single layer mesh lining keeps your feet cool and comfy in the summer. You can also use this as a gym shoe. Makes it the perfect summer workout shoe.
Rubber sole for maximum grip
It’s a flat rubber sole with smooth pivot points that gives the grip you need on the wrestling mat. It also increases maneuverability. The pivot points are slightly elevated which will help you make accurate footwork on the mat.
Convenient lace strap
It wouldn’t be considered as a wrestling shoe if it didn’t have any lace strap. The Adidas HVC2 Speed Shoe comes with an elastic lace strap. There is a Velcro strap on the side. It keeps you laces secured.
Pros
Cons
How to Choose the Best Wrestling Shoes
Consideration 1. Shoe Fit
This consideration plays a key role in boosting performance. Wrestling shoes should fit closely and prevent leaving space between your feet and the shoe. If you get a loose fitting shoe, your traction, speed, ease in maneuverability as well as stability will be altered.
Consideration 2. Durability
The material the shoe is made from determines its durability. Good wrestling shoes are made from lightweight material. Choose between a vented mesh, leather, suede, or nylon. These materials allow for easy airflow and prevent an extra load on your feet. The material will also affect the price of the shoes. More affordable shoes will be made from nylon whereas the mid-range shoes will have vented mesh material and the more costly shoes will have sued or leather
Consideration 3. Traction and grip
Traction helps to boost on performance and it works hand in hand with the sole type. There are majorly two types of traction patterns. A v-shape traction pattern is recommended for the heavyweight wrestler. Circular traction patterns best suit lightweight wrestlers as it promotes more pivot movements and prevent accidental slips. Traction will help you stay on the ground while boosting your grip so you do not fall easily.
Consideration 4. Sole type
The sole is responsible for how well your shoe handles on the ground. The major sole types in wrestling shoes include the split sole and the uniform sole. The split sole is split into two with the back supporting your heel. This is recommended for lightweight wrestlers who are watching on their speed and seek to boost their flexibility. On the other hand, a uniform sole is recommended for heavier wrestles as it aims at distributing your weight thus boosting stability.
Consideration 5. Consumer reviews
Before settling for the best wrestling shoes for boxing or wrestling, it is best that you research and read on a number of customer reviews so you can have a second opinion from the manufacturer. You will be getting information from other wrestlers. In addition, you will have a better understanding on how the shoe in question delivers on performance.
Read related article about best boxing shoes
Benefits of wrestling shoes to the wrestlers
Offers protection
Wrestling shoes are usually cut slightly above the ankle section or at the ankle section to provide support to the wrestler's feet. As we all know wrestling is a game that involves a lot of movements and jumping up and downs and therefore to ensure that the ankle is protected from developing Achilles tendonitis or other injuries, the shoes consist of an ankle cut.
Offers comfort
All sports shoes are designed in a lightweight material such that the wrestler feels like he is not wearing any shoes. The sole of the boots consists of thin rubber material that is light in weight while the upper part of the shoes has a mesh-like fabric material. The material is essential to make sure that the person wearing the boots gets ample free flow of air to keep the feet breathing and preventing sweating which may result in the development of blisters. Also, wrestlers are supposed to wear shoes that do not restrict their movement around the ring, and these boots offer just that.
Secure grip
As we saw earlier all wrestling shoes are designed with an ankle or above ankle cut to provide a secure grip as well. The lacing of the shoes is done from the bottom to the ankle such that you will not need to keep on tightening your boots when they come off. Majority of the shoes also consist of an ankle buckle that provides even a better secure grip.
Safe and healthy
The mat of the wrestling ring tends to trap a lot of dirt which occurs as a result of the excessive sweating of the wrestlers. So the shoes protect one from coming into contact with this dirt hence protecting them from contracting communicable diseases such as the ringworms.
Frequently asked questions about the top wrestling shoes
Question: What is the right fit for the top wrestling shoes?
Answer: This answer will vary depending on what you coach has advised or your comfort. For example, you may be encouraged to wear shoes that do not reach the toes for comfort. Others may opt for a shoe that reaches the toes and tight for that matter. But you should get a shoe that is comfortable and has a good fit. Ensure the shoe is not too fast or too loose as well.
Question: how should I order good wrestling shoes online?
Answer: Wrestling shoes are not made with the usual shoe size numbers. Therefore if you are not able to try the shoe from the shop, it is advisable that you buy a half size smaller than your average shoe size to get a good fit.
Question: Are shoes made for kids too?
Answer: yes some brands do manufacture small sizes for kids. Majority of kids sizes start from size 6 and below although if the kid has big feet they can wear a larger number.
Our recommendation
As we have said before, if you got the skills to be a pro, you need the right set of gears to help you on your way to becoming a pro. In this case, we are talking about getting the right pair of wrestling shoes.
All of the mentioned products are perfect for your next pair of wrestling shoes. However, if we had to pick one, it will have to be the ASICS Men's Matflex 5 Wrestling Shoe. If you want to get the most performance per dollar, you need to give the Matflex 5 a shot.
If you are on tight budget, we would recommend going for the ASICS Men's JB Elite Wrestling Shoe. It’ll last a season or two. That’s just our opinion. You are free to choose any shoe you like.
Final Verdict
Let us summarize the main points in a short sentence. Pick a lightweight shoe that has a good combination of durable and breathable material. Just because a pair costs more than your normal shoe doesn’t mean it’s better.
Also, don’t go for the cheap ones. Because those cheap versions are just going to snap after a couple of days of harsh use. To make sure you get the most bang for your buck, read the buying guide first before going to the review section.
This wraps up our best wrestling shoes reviews and the buying guide. Hope you found your next pair of wrestling shoes from this list.
Sources
1. For determining the size of your shoe, check out this article:
https://healthfully.com/determine-size-wrestling-shoe-12145841.html
2. Here is a more in-depth version of a wrestling shoe buying guide:
http://protips.dickssportinggoods.com/sports-and-activities/more-sports/buy-wrestling-shoes
3. A common confusion that we all go through:
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