Cameron Allen
Your legs and feet hold a great amount of importance during any sort of wrestling. Whether it’s conventional wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, or some other form of grappling, it is essential to have unrestricted lower body movement.
This is where wrestling shoes come in. Choosing the best wrestling shoes and wrestling gear, that fit perfectly will bring out your best performance.
How Should My Wrestling Shoes Fit?
When it comes to choosing the right wrestling shoes, the fit is super important for optimal performance. They should fit snugly and tightly, like a second skin, to provide stability and support during your wrestling or grappling sessions.
You want to make sure that your toes have enough room to wiggle and move around freely. The human foot anatomy doesn’t allow your toes to be squished together, so make sure your shoes do not restrict your toe’s range of motion.
Your heel should also be securely locked in place to prevent any slipping during intense movements. The shoes should feel comfortably tight around your midfoot and arch, without any pressure points or discomfort, or restrictions in foot and ankle movement.
It’s always recommended to physically try them on and walk around in them to ensure the fit is just right instead of buying them online, especially if they are your first pair of wrestling shoes.
To buy wrestling shoes that fit you right, make sure to consider all the factors above carefully and you will find yourself with the perfect wrestling shoes.
The off-season is the perfect time to work on developing insane levels of strength, power, speed, and conditioning so you can ragdoll opponents come the season.
Finding the Right Size
Firstly, it’s a good idea to measure the length and width of your feet accurately using a ruler or a measuring tape. Different brands may have slightly different sizing that runs a bit smaller or bigger, so it’s always best to refer to the specific size chart provided by the manufacturer.
It’s also recommended and quite helpful to read customer reviews or seek advice from fellow wrestlers who have used a particular brand or model of wrestling shoe you’re interested in. Trying on multiple sizes and styles like a split-sole shoe or a non-split-sole shoe can also help you determine the best fit for your feet.
Remember, it is not just the length and width of your foot that determines the right shoes for you. Factors like arch, toe, and ankle size also play a role.
Balance, Comfort, and Stability
Balance, comfort, and stability are all key factors that should be considered to buy the best wrestling shoe. Look for wrestling shoes that offer your foot a snug and low-profile fit to ensure balance, efficient movement, ankle support, and adequate shock absorption.
Comfort is key so look for shoes that provide enough cushioning for all your training and match needs. Stability is also very important because of intense and high-velocity movements and therefore you should look for sturdy and stable soles.
Moldability and Material
Wrestling shoes are always made with materials designed to be flexible and also be able to mold to the shape of your feet. Look for shoes made with high-quality leather or synthetic leather that is durable, comfortable, and breathable. Most good quality wrestling shoes should last you over a decade of hard training!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should wrestling shoes be tight or loose?
When it comes to getting wrestling shoes, it’s generally recommended to have a snug and reasonably tight fit rather than being too loose. The reason for this is to ensure proper stability and support for your heels, toes, and ankles during intense training and matches.
A snug fit allows your feet to feel connected to the shoes, providing you with better control, agility,, and a stronger mind-muscle connection on the mat. It also helps prevent unnecessary movement like slipping and reduces the risk of injuries.
However, it should be noted that “snug” doesn’t mean uncomfortably tight, as your toes are crushed together. You should still have enough room inside for your toes to wiggle comfortably and avoid any discomfort, a restricted range of motion is a major indicator that the wrestling shoes fit too tight.
Do I wear socks with my wrestling shoes?
On the topic of wearing socks or not with your wrestling shoes, it all comes down to preference. Some wrestlers prefer to wear socks during training and matches for added comfort, moisture-wicking, and to prevent any potential rubbing or blisters, socks can help prevent sweating which will prevent you from slipping.
On the contrary, many wrestlers prefer direct contact between their feet and the shoes for better grip and control. If you decide to wear socks, make sure they are thin, tight, and breathable to maintain a good feel of the mat at all times.
It is recommended to try out different options during practice sessions to see what works and what feels right for you. Ultimately, the ball is in your court, so go with what feels most comfortable and allows you to give your best performance on the wrestling mat!
Do you have to brake in wrestling shoes?
When it comes to breaking into brand-new wrestling shoes, it’s generally a good idea to do so. Breaking in your wrestling shoes helps to mold them closer to the shape of your feet, making them more comfortable and allowing you to move better on the mat and in real matches.
To break them in, start by wearing them during practice sessions or even just walking around in them for short periods of time. This helps to soften the material and loosen it up a bit to fit perfectly the way your foot is shaped.
It’s important to note that different model shoes from different brands may require different amounts of time to break in, so be patient when buying wrestling shoes and give them an adequate amount of time to adjust to your feet.
When you are done, you’ll have a perfect pair of wrestling shoes that feel like they were made just for you!
Can you wear wrestling shoes outside?
Technically, you can wear your wrestling shoes outside, however, it is not at all recommended. The reason for this is that wrestling shoes are specifically designed for intense use on the mat and the fighting ring.
Most wrestling shoes have thin soles and good ankle support and are not designed for outdoor activities. If you use them outside, not only will the rate of wear and tear increase, but you will also find them to be quite uncomfortable especially if you wear them on rugged and dirty trails and surfaces.
Since the traction and soles are designed to give you optimum performance and grip on the mat, it is recommended that you have a separate good pair of shoes for your outdoor needs and activities. This will allow your wrestling shoes to fit you well and last longer.
Do wrestling shoes run big or small?
When it comes to size, most wrestling shoes are true to size, however, it can vary from different brands and models. Some pairs might run slightly bigger or smaller as they are mass produced for the most common type of foot.
To counter this it is generally recommended to refer to the brands size chart whether you are buying split sole shoes, unisole shoes, high top shoes or most other shoes. Another tip is to physically visit a shop and buy them yourself instead of ordering online.
This will allow you to wear and try multiple models, walk around in them and choose the right pair of wrestling shoes based on your personal preference. Make sure the pair of shoes you choose have enough shock absorption and wiggle room for your toes.
The off-season is the perfect time to work on developing insane levels of strength, power, speed, and conditioning so you can ragdoll opponents come the season.
