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Wrestling Essentials: Wrestling Equipment List

wrestling essentials

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Like all combat sports and Martial arts, wrestling has just many risks of getting injured. It is common for wrestlers to deal with problems like bruises, rashes, sprains, cuts, and much more.

However, if you focused on wearing adequate protective gear, you would have to worry less about these issues. Instead, you could confidently train and progress in your wrestling journey.

In this article, we will be covering all the wrestling equipment essentials you will need to get started, what each piece of equipment is for, and the best brands to buy it from.

wrestling essentials
Credit: Danny Phillips

Wrestling Essentials

Wrestling is like any other combat sport or Martial Art, which is why you need to get some safety gear, especially if you are a beginner at a young age.

Remember, you do not need to get the whole wrestling gear catalog of a store, instead, a handful of the wrestling equipment essentials will do the trick.

Essentials like knee pads, headgear, wrestling mats, shoes, grappling shorts and wrestling singlets if you plan to compete soon are all you need to progress at wrestling while being safe.

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Wrestling Knee Pads

Knee pads are an important piece of gear in amateur wrestling! They play an important role in protecting your knees from impact, friction, and injuries during intense training sessions and matches.

Knee pads are typically made from durable materials like neoprene or foam padding to provide adequate cushioning and support while allowing for flexibility and unrestricted movement. They also feature reinforced stitching for extra durability, secure straps to keep them in place during high-velocity movements, and a snug fit to prevent slippage.

By wearing knee pads, you can confidently execute takedowns, sprawls, and other techniques efficiently, without worrying about discomfort or potential knee injuries.

Best Wrestling Knee Pads

wrestling essentials
Credit: Danny Phillips

Wrestling Headgear

Wrestling headgear is a must-have piece of equipment for amateur wrestlers! Its main purpose is to protect your ears from getting injured or damaged during training or matches, especially when executing takedowns or grappling on the mat. Combined with a mouth guard, you are as safe as can be on the mats.

Most manufacturers make their headgear from durable materials like leather or synthetic leather filled with foam padding. They also have adjustable straps to provide a comfortable and secure fit. Most wrestling headgear has a hard outer shell to absorb impact and soft inner padding for cushioning. There are also ventilation holes to keep you cool and comfortable during intense bouts.

Most wrestling headgear also comes with removable ear guards to increase airflow around the wrestler’s head.

Best Wrestling Headgear

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Wrestling Shoes

A good wrestling shoe is one of the most important wrestling gear investments you will make, this is because there are many differences between wrestling shoes and regular gym shoes. There are a few different types of wrestling shoes available, including high-top and low-cut shoes, each offering different levels of ankle support and flexibility.

Wrestling shoes are designed to provide traction, stability, and agility on the mat. This allows wrestlers to move quickly, accurately, and confidently during matches. These athletic shoes are typically made from lightweight and durable materials like synthetic leather or mesh to offer better breathability and comfort.

Some unique features of wrestling shoes include a snug fit for minimal slippage, a grip that comes up to the sides of the shoe, a thin sole for better grip, and reinforced toe caps for added durability.

If you want to purchase new wrestling shoes, make sure to try out a few different brands, this is because the size can vary a bit. Loosely fitted wrestling shoes cause more harm and good in your training and matches.

Best Wrestling Shoes

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Grappling Shorts

In wrestling, if you decide to wear shorts, you have to understand that gym shorts won’t cut it. Instead, wrestling shorts are recommended as they are designed to provide freedom of movement, comfort, and durability during rough training sessions and matches.

Wrestling shorts are mostly made from high-quality materials like spandex or polyester blends to offer stretchiness, flexibility, moisture-wicking properties, and high resistance to wear and tear. Grappling shorts often have reinforced stitching for added durability and a secure waistband to keep them in place during intense movements. They also have stretch panels for enhanced mobility during training sessions.

By wearing grappling shorts, wrestlers can focus on their techniques without restrictions, allowing for fluid movements and agility on the mat.

Best Grappling Shorts

wrestling essentials
Credit: Danny Phillips

Training Equipment

When it comes to training for wrestling, several key pieces of equipment can help you improve your skills and performance on the mat. Some essential training gear includes wrestling shoes, knee pads, headgear, grappling shorts, and a wrestling singlet.

Wrestling shoes provide traction and support for quick movements, while knee pads protect your knees during intense training sessions. Headgear is crucial for protecting your ears during grappling, and grappling shorts offer flexibility and comfort for fluid movements.

A wrestling singlet is the standard uniform for matches, allowing for freedom of movement while showcasing your team spirit. By having the right training equipment, you can train effectively, stay safe, and perform at your best in wrestling.

Wrestling Singlet (Custom Team Singlets by Rudis)

Most of the time, if your kid is competing in High school wrestling programs they will have singlets pre-made for your kid. If you are in club wrestling chances are you will be paying a team fee to get a custom singlet from your coach’s provider of choice. For whatever reason, if you want to go off and buy your own singlet for your own personal use to train in we will always recommend going with Rudis, a true leader in the gear space within the niche of wrestling.

The custom Team Singlets produced by Rudis are the epitome of excellence in the world of wrestling attire, offering a blend of functionality, efficiency, style, and personalization.

Internationally recognized brand Rudis excels in providing custom team singlets that not only meet the rigorous demands of amateur wrestling but also allow teams to beautifully express their unique identity through customizable designs. The brand takes pride in their singlets which are meticulously crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring a perfect balance of comfort and durability on the mat at all times.

Rudis’ attention to detail shines through in every stitch and seam. The endless customizable options offered by Rudis allow teams to showcase their national colors, logos, and team spirit proudly, making each singlet an excellent representation of unity and pride.

Whether in the heat of competition or the intensity of training, these high-quality singlets stand out as a symbol of excellence and team solidarity in the world of amateur wrestling.

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Our pick on the best wrestling headgear to wear this upcoming wrestling season

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Conclusion

Having the right wrestling gear is crucial for any wrestler looking to excel in their sport.

From wrestling shoes to knee pads, headgear, grappling shorts, and custom team singlets, each piece of equipment plays a vital role in enhancing your performance, ensuring safety, and promoting team unity and discipline.

By investing in high-quality gear that fits well and is designed specifically for wrestling, athletes can train effectively, compete with precision and confidence, and showcase their skills with pride. The right gear not only provides adequate comfort and protection but also instills a powerful sense of professionalism and dedication to the sport.

So, whether you’re a seasoned wrestler or just starting your wrestling journey, having the proper gear can make a significant difference in your training, performance, and overall experience.

  • cameron allen founder of grapplers graveyard

    Current Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Blue Belt training under Thiago Ximenez in Scottsdale, Arizona. Over 5 Years of BJJ Experience and experience wrestling, boxing, and more!

    View all posts

Wrestling Essential Items

We bought and tested the gear so you don't have to.

Excellence First

Grapplers Graveyard prides itself on chasing excellence in every aspect of life. The mats are just a practical way to put these principles into practice. Here you will find reviews and recommendations of all the best wrestling gear.

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Wrestling Content

Wrestling Shoes

Best Asics
  • Primary Rating:
    4.7
  • Primary Rating:
    4.0
Best For Women
  • Primary Rating:
    4.6
  • Primary Rating:
    4.7
  • Primary Rating:
    4.2
Top Rated
  • Primary Rating:
    4.8
  • Primary Rating:
    4.2
  • Primary Rating:
    3.9
Best For Women
  • Primary Rating:
    4.5
Best Splurge
  • Primary Rating:
    4.5
  • Description:

    RUDIS Wrestling Shoes pays homage to the life of a warrior while also serving as a weapon for those seeking victory in battle on the mat. Rudis shoes are not only crafted to perfection but also extremely lightweight.

  • N/A
Best Overall Adidas
  • Primary Rating:
    4.6
  • Primary Rating:
    4.1
  • Primary Rating:
    4.2
Best Asics
Primary Rating:
4.7
Description:
$98.00
Primary Rating:
4.0
Description:
$99.95
Best For Women
Primary Rating:
4.6
Description:
$69.95
Primary Rating:
4.7
Description:

Asics Agressor 5s are some of the best wrestling shoes on the market. Get a high-quality product without breaking the bank.

$98.00
Primary Rating:
4.2
Description:
$109.99
Top Rated
Primary Rating:
4.8
Description:
$180.23
Primary Rating:
4.2
Description:
$59.95
Primary Rating:
3.9
Description:
$47.95
Best For Women
Primary Rating:
4.5
Description:
$69.95
Best Splurge
Primary Rating:
4.5
Description:

RUDIS Wrestling Shoes pays homage to the life of a warrior while also serving as a weapon for those seeking victory in battle on the mat. Rudis shoes are not only crafted to perfection but also extremely lightweight.

N/A
Best Overall Adidas
Primary Rating:
4.6
Description:
$53.98
Primary Rating:
4.1
Description:
$90.00
Primary Rating:
4.2
Description:
$59.95
02/20/2026 10:01 am GMT

Headgear

Our Pick
  • Primary Rating:
    4.8
  • Description:

    The Matman Wrestling Headgear is a classic, no-nonsense protective headgear that we genuinely love and train in ourselves—built to stay secure while you scramble, shoot, and defend. Its reliable fit, durable construction, and comfortable ear protection make it a go-to choice for wrestlers of all levels who want solid protection without bulk or distraction.


  • $39.97
Best Overall
  • Primary Rating:
    4.8
  • Description:

    The Adidas Wrestling Protective Headgear is a durable, comfortable ear-protective headgear designed to help prevent cauliflower ear and other impact-related injuries while you wrestle. It’s a solid choice for athletes who want trusted protection from a reputable brand, combining a secure fit with breathable padding that stays comfortable through intense training and competition.

  • $38.50
  • Primary Rating:
    4.4
  • Description:

    Cliff Keen Wrestling Headgear is another top-notch brand in the wrestling world. Their headgear is known for its exceptional quality and performance. Cliff Keen offers a variety of headgear options that prioritize comfort, protection, and style.

  • $49.89
  • Primary Rating:
    2.7
  • Description:

    The Gold BJJ Headgear is a lightweight protective headpiece made to help reduce impact and abrasion during training without feeling bulky or restrictive. It’s a practical choice for grapplers who want simple, comfortable protection in live rolling or drilling while still maintaining awareness and mobility on the mats.


  • $34.95
Our Pick
Primary Rating:
4.8
Description:

The Matman Wrestling Headgear is a classic, no-nonsense protective headgear that we genuinely love and train in ourselves—built to stay secure while you scramble, shoot, and defend. Its reliable fit, durable construction, and comfortable ear protection make it a go-to choice for wrestlers of all levels who want solid protection without bulk or distraction.


$39.97
Best Overall
Primary Rating:
4.8
Description:

The Adidas Wrestling Protective Headgear is a durable, comfortable ear-protective headgear designed to help prevent cauliflower ear and other impact-related injuries while you wrestle. It’s a solid choice for athletes who want trusted protection from a reputable brand, combining a secure fit with breathable padding that stays comfortable through intense training and competition.

$38.50
Primary Rating:
4.4
Description:

Cliff Keen Wrestling Headgear is another top-notch brand in the wrestling world. Their headgear is known for its exceptional quality and performance. Cliff Keen offers a variety of headgear options that prioritize comfort, protection, and style.

$49.89
Primary Rating:
2.7
Description:

The Gold BJJ Headgear is a lightweight protective headpiece made to help reduce impact and abrasion during training without feeling bulky or restrictive. It’s a practical choice for grapplers who want simple, comfortable protection in live rolling or drilling while still maintaining awareness and mobility on the mats.


$34.95
02/21/2026 04:01 am GMT

Knee Pads

Our Pick
  • Primary Rating:
    5.0
  • Primary Rating:
    4.7
  • Description:

    The McDavid Hex Knee Compression Sleeves are supportive, low-profile knee sleeves designed to help reduce discomfort and provide joint stability during wrestling, grappling, or high-intensity training. They’re a solid choice for athletes who want reliable compression and protection without bulky padding, helping keep knees warm, supported, and ready for extended sessions on the mats.

  • $31.17
  • Primary Rating:
    4.9
  • Primary Rating:
    4.4
  • Description:

    The Cliff Keen Wrestling Bubble Kneepad is a classic, high-impact knee pad built specifically for wrestling and grappling athletes who need extra protection in live training. Its thick, cushioned “bubble” design absorbs contact and friction with the mat, helping protect your knees during takedowns, scrambles, and long sessions without sacrificing mobility.

  • $23.50
Our Pick
Primary Rating:
5.0
Description:

#1 rated knee sleeve from Grapplers Graveyard. Extremely comfortable and stylish without breaking the bank. Comes with two leg sleeves with purchase.

$20.99
Primary Rating:
4.7
Description:

The McDavid Hex Knee Compression Sleeves are supportive, low-profile knee sleeves designed to help reduce discomfort and provide joint stability during wrestling, grappling, or high-intensity training. They’re a solid choice for athletes who want reliable compression and protection without bulky padding, helping keep knees warm, supported, and ready for extended sessions on the mats.

$31.17
Primary Rating:
4.9
Description:

The RUDIS Supreme Cushion Black Single Wrestling Knee Pad is built for the toughest of wrestlers.

$39.99
Primary Rating:
4.4
Description:

The Cliff Keen Wrestling Bubble Kneepad is a classic, high-impact knee pad built specifically for wrestling and grappling athletes who need extra protection in live training. Its thick, cushioned “bubble” design absorbs contact and friction with the mat, helping protect your knees during takedowns, scrambles, and long sessions without sacrificing mobility.

$23.50
02/21/2026 04:00 am GMT

Off Season Training Programs

12 Week Wrestling Program

Embarking on a 12-week wrestling off-season conditioning program can be the game-changer you’ve been seeking. Whether you’re a seasoned wrestler or new to the sport, this program offers a unique opportunity to elevate your skills and endurance.

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