Wrestling is an old sport that has transformed through the ages. In the days of yore, ancient Greeks competed in the Olympic Wrestling and used to fight barefoot. The Roman culture followed in their footsteps but they introduced leather sandals to ensure that wrestlers had better stability and increased support in the ring for maximum performance. Fast forward to today, modern wrestlers are required to put on their gear before they set foot in the ring. One of the most important things they must wear is wrestling shoes.
Wrestling shoes are conformed tightly to the feet to provide you with a solid connection to the ground. They also have high arches and are designed to protect your feet. Cushioning and padding in these shoes protect the sole while strong ankle support prevents your feet from injuries like a sprain and athlete’s foot. If you are serious about wrestling, it is important that you invest in a good pair of wrestling shoes.
There are currently a lot of options available in the market, which can make it hard for you to find the right pair of shoes for the sport. But don’t worry as we are here to help you out. We will list some of the best wrestling shoes so that you can choose a pair that suits your needs and your wallet. Before we talk about these shoes, let us take a look at some important features you should consider when shopping for wrestling footwear.
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Things to Consider When Shopping for Wrestling Shoes
· Traction
Traction is an important factor to consider when you are searching for wrestling shoes because you don’t want to lose your grip while fighting an opponent. Almost every wrestling shoe utilizes some type of rubber compound for the sole. Rubber is used because it helps provide better traction on different surfaces that wrestlers fight on.
The sole of the wrestling shoes must have good contact with the mat. If it’s too slick, you would slip and if it is too sticky, you won’t be able to move around the ring. Modern wrestling shoes generally have two types of soles – the non-split sole and the split sole.
The non-split sole is essentially a piece of rubber. It is more rigid, light, and doesn’t wear down quickly. The split sole adds more flexibility and gives more control to the wrestler. However, it is less durable than the non-split sole.
· Breathability
A lot of movement is involved in wrestling, which means that you must deal with perspiration on your feet. Therefore, you should look for a breathable pair of shoes that would prevent a buildup of your moisture and keep your feet breathing; otherwise, your shoes would start to feel heavier, compromising your movement.
Find a wrestling shoe that features an upper made from a breathable mesh material so that air can easily flow into your feet. More breathability will make you feel better in the ring and it is also good for overall foot health.
· Fit
Some of the wrestling moves involve lifting the opponent off their feet. These moves put a lot of weight on your feet, which is why it is important to have shoes that are comfortable and can ease the stress on your feet. Shoe design plays a major role in that. Uppers made from a soft material like synthetic leather generally allow for a more comfortable fit. The sides should be flexible too so that you can easily move around the ring. The toe box also matters because if your toes are cramping or rubbing against each other, you could suffer from calluses, bunions and other foot problems.
However, too much room in the shoes can cause injury. Therefore, make sure to get the wrestling shoes that are the right fit for you.
· Support
Your ankles experience a lot of stress while you are trying to take down your opponent. This is why it is important for you to get a wrestling shoe that gives good support to your ankles. A high ankle length can help in this regard as it’ll wrap nicely around your ankles when you tie the laces and help keep them stable in your moves. You could also get a pair of shoes that features Velcro ankle straps. They will ensure a tight fit, so your ankles will feel more secure.
While it is important to have support in the ankles, this support shouldn’t come at the cost of flexibility. Your wrestling shoes should allow good mobility in the ankle joint so that you can move adequately.
· Comfort
Some wrestlers might be able to wear a pair of uncomfortable shoes because it gives them an advantage in a certain way. However, most people won’t go with an uncomfortable wrestling shoe because it will be a distraction in a fight. So when you are shopping for wrestling footwear, make sure that the shoes you are planning to buy are comfortable and won’t cause any discomfort even during long hours of wear.
· Durability
The durability of wrestling shoes is another important factor to consider when shopping for wrestling footwear. You don’t want to spend a bunch of cash on something that won’t last long. If you spend a hundred dollars on a new pair of wrestling shoes and they fall apart halfway through the season, it means that they were a poor choice. So make sure to carefully consider the durability of the shoes before you buy them.
How to Clean Your Wrestling Shoes
The things you will need to clean your wrestling shoes include a soft cloth, container, and warm water. First, fill the container with warm water. Don’t add any type of soap or chemical cleaner because it could damage your shoes. Place the soft cloth in the water and then squeeze the water out of it. You don’t want the cloth to be too soaked; just damp is enough. Then, start cleaning your wrestling shoes in soft circular motions. Avoid scrubbing too hard as it could damage the materials of your wrestling shoes. If the laces are dirty, remove them and wash them with warm water.
You should also clean the insides of your wrestling shoes to avoid skin irritation. You can use warm water for this too, but again avoid using chemical detergents. Shake out excess dirt and then use a damp cloth to clean the insides of the shoes. Let the shoes dry for about half an hour.
Read Also: Best Cheap Running Shoes
Our Top 3 Choices
Best Overall Choice: ASICS Aggressor 4 Men’s Wrestling Shoes
Premium Product: Otomix Men’s Stingray
Best Value: ASICS Men’s JB Elite
Best Wrestling Shoes
1. ASICS Men’s Dan Gable Ultimate 3 Wrestling Shoe
Named after the legendary wrestler, Dan Gable, the ASICS Men’s Dan Gable Ultimate 3 is one of the best wrestling shoes. Gable has assisted ASICS in designing these shoes, so you should expect great performance from them. The Dan Gable Ultimate 3 features an Ecsaine upper, which allows for incredible feel and breathability to keep your feet cool and sweat-free during the match. The compression-fit bootie system is one unique aspect of the Ultimate 3 Wrestling Shoe and it supports the uppers, providing exceptional flexibility and cushioning.
The split-sole allows for quick execution of the move with great traction. There is a total of three traction zones, which allow for precise balance and control, giving you the ability to swiftly dodge your opponent’s punches. The PU traction pods in the outsole act like suction pods, further improving traction. Despite having so many features, the Ultimate 3 Wrestling Shoe is still lightweight.
Pros of the Asics Men’s Dan Gable Ultimate 3 Wrestling Shoe
- Lightweight
- Solid traction
- Breathable uppers
- Compression-fit bootie system
Cons of the Asics Men’s Dan Gable Ultimate 3 Wrestling Shoe
- Wears out fast
2. ASICS Men’s Dan Gable Ultimate 4 Wrestling Shoe
The ASICS Men’s Dan Gable Ultimate 4 Wrestling Shoe is an upgraded version of the Dan Gable Ultimate 3. It features an integrated upper and outsole. Compared to the previous versions, this one is considerably lighter and has better grip. It also boasts a slightly raised heel and improved ankle system. Moreover, Dan Gable Ultimate 4 is designed with a compression-fit bootie system. This system is surrounded by polyurethane support pods that offer ample flexibility. The tongue of these shoes features a less bulky version of ASICS’ lace garage technology to ensure that the pair meets regulations for professional competitions.
The outsole of the Dan Gable Ultimate 4 is made with a rubber compound to provide you with solid traction on mat surfaces. These wrestling shoes are available in a variety of colors, so you should be able to find a pair that suits your style. Overall, the Dan Gable Ultimate 4 is a pretty solid option for anyone looking for high-quality wrestling footwear.
Pros of the ASICS Men’s Dan Gable Ultimate 4 Wrestling Shoe
- Split-sole design
- Rubber outsole offers good traction on mat surfaces
- Compression-fit bootie system
- Lightweight
Cons of the ASICS Men’s Dan Gable Ultimate 4 Wrestling Shoe
- Sizing issues
- Not the most durable offering
3. ASICS Men’s JB Elite
The ASICS Men’s JB Elite is named after Olympic freestyle wrestling champion Jordan Burroughs. It looks like a retro wrestling shoe and is available in five different colors. This shoe meets professional tournament regulations, so you can use it for competitive wrestling.
The uppers of the ASICS JB Elite are made with synthetic leather and single-layer mesh for breathability and comfort. It will prevent your feet from sweating, to ensure that your performance isn’t compromised. The overlays are TPU, which allow for ventilation and a snug fit. These shoes also feature a split rubber sole for enhanced flexibility and traction. The lacing garage of the ASICS Men’s JB Elite is integrated with eyelets and slots for protection and personalized fit. It also has a thinner tongue for a lightweight design.
The ASICS Men’s JB Elite is also reasonably priced. We normally see manufactures cutting corners on quality to reach a lower price point. But, this isn’t the case with the JB Elite and this pair offers great value for money.
Pros of the ASICS Men’s JB Elite
- Great value for money
- Durable and comfortable
- Breathable
- Split rubber sole enhances flexibility and traction
- Meets tournament regulations
Cons of the ASICS Men’s JB Elite
- Runs somewhat small
4. ASICS Men’s JB Elite III Wrestling Shoe
Designed with the help of the famous Jordan Burroughs, the JB Elite III is one of the most popular wrestling shoes ever made by ASICS. It boasts the same features that were seen in the first two incarnations of the ASICS JB Elite, but several have been improved. The uppers of the JB Elite III are made with open mesh material to ensure that your feet stay sweat-free and breathable. The lace garage system features traditional laces and eyelets with an addition of a leather pocket at the top that allows you to tuck in the laces.
The ASICS JB Elite III is constructed with seamless materials that reduce the probability of friction and irritation caused by conventional seams and stitches. The outsole features a split-sole design, adding good traction and great flexibility to help you make quick transitions in the ring. This rubber outsole is good for gripping on rubber mats, vinyl mats, and polyethylene foam.
The ASICS JB Elite III is great in terms of comfort, flexibility, and breathability. However, they aren’t the most durable offering and may wear out fast if you use them for competitive wrestling.
Pros of the ASICS Men’s JB Elite III Wrestling Shoe
- Open mesh uppers
- Comfortable
- Seamless contraction
- Lace garage technology
Cons of the ASICS Men’s JB Elite III Wrestling Shoe
- Run small
- Durability issues
5. ASICS JB Elite IV
The ASICS JB Elite IV is a slightly modified version of the Elite 3. It features breathable mesh uppers with synthetic overlays to improve durability, without compromising on breathability. The lace-up allows for a custom fit while a hook-and-loop closure at the tongue secures laces while improving stability.
The updated and integrated lacing features a less bulker tongue and meets tournament regulations. The rubber outsole of these shoes is just as good, if not better than that of the Elite 3. This rubber outsole is good for gripping.
Pros of the ASICS JB Elite IV
- Rubber outsole
- Breathable
- Comfortable
Cons of the ASICS JB Elite IV
- Not too durable
6. Otomix Men’s Stingray
Made from a suede material, the Otomix Men’s Stingray can provide your feet with comfort and protection. They have solid traction to ensure that you have good control over your feet while you take on an opponent. A stiff yet comfortable collar is there to provide adequate support to your ankles, without compromising on mobility. As a result, you should be able to execute your moves swiftly and knock down the opponent to go for the pin.
One of the things we like about the Otomix Men’s Stingray is their breathability. The suede uppers allow air to flow into the shoes, ensuring that your feet remain dry and cool. These shoes are also lightweight, so you should be able to easily move around the ring. The Otomix Men’s Stingray has a long tongue, which supports the entire forefoot area and cushions your instep. These shoes also have ankle straps, so you can tighten them to firmly secure your ankles, preventing unnecessary movements.
Pros of the Otomix Men’s Stingray
- Ankle straps for extra support
- Solid grip
- Breathable
- High range of motion
Cons of the Otomix Men’s Stingray
- Expensive
7. Adidas Men’s Adizero Wrestling XIV-M
The Adidas Men’s Adizero features two-piece mesh uppers that allow for maximum breathability, ensuring that your feet stay cool and sweat-free. The mesh is made of synthetic/textile material, which is light in weight to ensure that your flexibility isn’t compromised in any way. These shoes don’t require any breaking in and you should find them suitable right out of the box. The design of the Adidas Men’s Adizero should allow you to use them both as a casual shoe and a wrestling shoe.
The outsole of these shoes is made of rubber and features V-shape traction patterns that provide a solid grip, especially on mat surfaces. The ankle-length of this pair is slightly elevated to protect your ankle against impact and keep you stable. It also maintains a good range of motion to help you easily move around the ring.
The Adidas Men’s Adizero has some issues when it comes to fitting as some customers who bought this pair found it a poor fit. Keep this in mind if you are really considering buying these shoes.
Pros of the Adidas Men’s Adizero Wrestling XIV-M
- Lightweight
- Good traction
- Breathable
- Good ankle support
Cons of the Adidas Men’s Adizero Wrestling XIV-M
- Fitting issues
- Expensive
8. ASICS Men’s Snapdown Wrestling Shoe
If you want to buy a pair of quality wrestling shoes without putting a dent in your wallet, the ASICS Men’s Snapdown is worth considering. It’s mid-level footwear, which means that the shaft measures approximately mid-top from the arch. The uppers are made with a combination of single-layer mesh and skin-suede that enhance breathability and flexibility to optimize your performance in the ring. These shoes sport a full-length rubber outsole that provides excellent traction, ensuring that you don’t lose your grip while wrestling an opponent.
The ASICS Men’s Snapdown Wrestling Shoes feature a traditional lacing system with eyelets and support slots. These shoes are available in three colors that all look great. It is important to note that people who have used the Snapdown have found some issues with the size so be careful if you are ordering this pair online.
Pros of the ASICS Men’s Snapdown Wrestling Shoe
- Inexpensive
- Full-length rubber outsole provides good traction
- Breathable and flexible uppers
- Integrated lace garage
Cons of the ASICS Men’s Snapdown Wrestling Shoe
- Sizing issues
9. ASICS Men’s Dan Gable EVO 2 Wrestling Shoes
The ASICS Men’s Dan Gable EVO 2 is one expensive pair, but its features justify its price. It features a porous mesh insole that keeps your feet dry and cool for maximum comfort while the California lasting technology gives you the stability to dodge your opponent’s lethal attacks. The Ortholite sockliner cushions your every step and comes with moisture management abilities.
The ASICS Men’s Dan Gable EVO 2 Wrestling Shoes feature a split-sole with unique traction patterns to provide you with a solid grip in the ring and more responsive rebounds. These shoes are quite durable, so they can be a good option for competitive wrestling. Unfortunately, they are available in only one color so you don’t have many options when it comes to style.
Pros of the ASICS Men’s Dan Gable EVO 2 Wrestling Shoes
- Durable
- Breathable
- Good traction
- Moisture management abilities
Cons of the ASICS Men’s Dan Gable EVO 2 Wrestling Shoes
- Available in one color
- A bit pricier
10. ASICS Women’s Aggressor 3 Wrestling Shoe
The ASICS Women’s Aggressor 3 is one of the most durable wrestling shoes. It has plenty of great features and still comes with an affordable price tag, which makes it an option considering. The upper is constructed with an Ecsaine material that is very comfortable and breathable. The tongue of these shoes is also mesh and lightweight.
The outsole of the ASICS Women’s Aggressor 3 utilizes a durable and sticky rubber compound that offers solid traction to ensure that your feet stay on the ground. This outsole features molded teeth for better balance. These shoes have a split-sole design, made of traction pods that should give you precise foot control for those slick moves. The ASICS Women’s Aggressor 3 also features an integrated lace garage and allows the laces to be tucked in for protected.
Pros of the ASICS Women’s Aggressor 3 Wrestling Shoe
- Ankle cushioning
- Breathable and comfortable
- Great traction
- Split-sole design
- Reasonably priced
Cons of the ASICS Women’s Aggressor 3 Wrestling Shoe
- Toe box is a little narrow
11. ASICS Aggressor 4 Men’s Wrestling Shoes
If you are a professional wrestler looking for a pair of durable, comfortable and breathable wrestling shoes, the ASICS Aggressor 4 should be on your shortlist. These shoes have all the advanced features and technology you would expect from ASICS. The uppers are made with a combination of fabric and suede materials, which makes these shoes flexible and breathable, ensuring that your feet stay cool and dry. Inside the shoe, you get EVA footbeds that offer adequate comfort and support. On top of that, the ankle area is padded to protect your ankles and keep them comfortable.
The ASICS Aggressor 4 features a unique DuoSole outsole, which reduces weight and offers better flexibility, without compromising on traction and durability. These outsoles have molded teeth for superior control and balance. This pair also has ankle cushioning that would lend you extra comfort, support, and stability. The ASICS Aggressor 4 has everything one would want from wrestling shoes, which is why we can easily recommend it to you.
Pros of the ASICS Aggressor 4 Men’s Wrestling Shoes
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Breathable
- Great ankle support
- DuoSole outsole
Cons of the ASICS Aggressor 4 Men’s Wrestling Shoes
- Can be a little tight on wider feet
12. ASICS Men’s Cael V6.0 Wrestling Shoe
The ASICS Men’s Cael V6.0 is one of the best wrestling shoes currently available in the market. It is 100 percent manmade, so you should expect great durability from it. The uppers of these shoes are made from a combination of Ecsaine and mesh to ensure maximum breathability. At the heel of the Cael V6.0, you will find the signature of Cael Sanderson, indicating that this shoe was designed by the Olympic Gold Medalist Cael Sanderson. He used his experienced and incorporated innovations with a classic feel to create a high-performance wrestling shoe.
The ASICS Cael V6.0 comes with a rubber outsole designed with maximum flexibility. In the rear of the sole are traction pods that act like suction cups to help improve your foot control and balance. The lace garage sports an eight-eyelet closure system for adequate fit. The ASICS Cael V6.0 also incorporates a ComforDry sockliner that should provide you maximum cushioning while creating a drier and cooler environment.
One problem with ASICS Men’s Cael V6.0 is that it doesn’t provide solid traction on slippery mats. If this is a deal-breaker for you, we suggest you look elsewhere.
Pros of the ASICS Men’s Cael V6.0 Wrestling Shoe
- Comfortable and durable
- Rubber outsole
- Breathable
- Split-sole technology
- Lace garage
Cons of the ASICS Men’s Cael V6.0 Wrestling Shoe
- Not the best traction
13. ASICS Men’s Cael V7.0 Wrestling Shoe
This is an improved and upgraded version of the Cael V6.0 featured above. The major change is in the uppers as they have been redesigned to improve breathability and comfort. The uppers of the Cael V7.0 are made with a combination of Ecsaine synthetic leather and air mesh material, which improves breathability to prevent a buildup of moisture. The lacing garage has also been upgraded and it now features more solid laces and eyelets for an enhanced fit. The laces can also be tucked in.
The outsole of the ASICS Men’s Cael V7.0 is constructed with a rubber compound to improve traction. The split-sole design with traction pads should offer you better control and grip, improving your performance in the ring.
If you are planning to order the ASICS Men’s Cael V7.0, keep in mind that these shoes run small. So you might have to order a size up, especially if you have wider feet.
Pros of the ASICS Men’s Cael V7.0 Wrestling Shoe
- Split-sole
- Rubber outsole
- Breathable uppers
- Lightweight
- Lace garage
Cons of the ASICS Men’s Cael V7.0 Wrestling Shoe
- Sizes run small
14. ASICS Men’s Cael V8.0 Wrestling Shoes
The Cael V8.0 Wrestling Shoes is an improved version of the V7.0 discussed above and it delivers the same, if not better, performance than the previous version. It is a bit pricier than the previous models, but the features and specifications justify the cost. The Cael V8.0 is lightweight and comfortable, so you should be able to wear it during long fights. These shoes feature a mesh and synthetic upper to ensure good breathability so your feet would stay dry and sweat-free.
The ankle area of the ASICS Cael V8.0 is generously padded to improve comfort and flexibility. These shoes incorporate a traditional lace-up closure with a lace garage that keeps the laces securely in place, eliminating the risk of tripping during fighting or training.
One unique feature of this pair is that it comes with an internal elastic sleeve, replacing the conventional tongue to provide a sock-like fit. There is also an Ortholite sockliner that wicks away sweat and moisture. The outsole of the Cael V8.0 is made with rubber for good traction on all types of wrestling surfaces. Like the V7.0, the Cael V8.0 also has some sizing issues so be careful when ordering it online.
Pros of the ASICS Men’s Cael V8.0 Wrestling Shoes
- Rubber outsole
- Ortholite sockliner
- Lace garage
- Comfortable and flexible
- Breathable and durable
Cons of the ASICS Men’s Cael V8.0 Wrestling Shoes
- Sizing issues
15. Adidas Wrestling Men’s Combat Speed 4-M
The Adidas Wrestling Men’s Combat Speed 4-M features an upper made with a single-layer mesh to provide a sock-like fit and ensure maximum breathability. So your performance won’t be compromised due to moisture and sweat building up on your feet. The materials used in the Combat Speed 4-M make it very durable, so you won’t have to worry about replacing it any time soon. The outsole of these shoes is made with a strong rubber compound that should provide you with solid traction, preventing the likelihood of you losing your grip while moving or running in the ring.
One of the things we like about Combat Speed 4-M is that these shoes are lightweight, so they should provide you with good agility and speed. It also features a die-cut EVA midsole and supportive TPU with three stripes and a side panel for outstanding flexibility. These shoes tend to run a little small, so order a size up.
Pros of the Adidas Wrestling Men’s Combat Speed 4-M
- Breathable
- Offer good agility and speed
- Die-cut EVA midsole
- Supportive TPU
- Durable
- Lightweight
Cons of the Adidas Wrestling Men’s Combat Speed 4-M
- Sizes run small
16. Adidas Men’s Pretereo III Wrestling Shoes
The Adidas Men’s Pretereo III features a supportive heel structure and ankle zone for maximum comfort and protection. They come with a single-layer mesh upper to provide adequate breathability while being lightweight. The suede midsole features anti-slip lining for consistent contact and solid traction, ensuring that you don’t lose your footing while wrestling.
The outsole of the Adidas Men’s Pretereo III Wrestling Shoes provides consistent grip in all directions. Customers who have used these shoes found it a good fit and quite comfortable. These shoes are also a good option for people with wider feet as they feature a wide toe-box.
Pros of the Adidas Men’s Pretereo III Wrestling Shoes
- Anti-slip lining
- Rubber outsole
- Lightweight
- Breathable uppers
Cons of the Adidas Men’s Pretereo III Wrestling Shoes
- Not too durable
17. Adidas Wrestling Men’s Response 3.1
The Adidas Wrestling Men’s Response 3.1 is made of fabric and synthetic materials with mesh uppers to provide maximum breathability and comfort. These shoes are designed with allover ClimaCool ventilation that ensures your feet are well-aerated. The midsole of this pair complements the outsole, providing plush comfort and contact responsiveness.
The outsole of the Adidas Wrestling Men’s Response 3.1 is designed with a double flex rubber compound that should provide a solid grip on all types of wrestling surfaces. A lightweight split-forefoot ADIWEAR Radical Curve is added to the outsole to make it easier for you to spin and move around the ring while maintaining your grip and posture. The Adidas Response 3.1 also features a lace cover system that keeps the laces tucked away, preventing you from tripping and falling. A hook-and-loop closure is also there to further reinforce the fit and provide support to your ankles to adequate stability.
Pros of the Adidas Wrestling Men’s Response 3.1
- Ample ankle support
- Rubber outsole
- Breathable
- Flexible
Cons of the Adidas Wrestling Men’s Response 3.1
- Not too durable
18. Adidas HVC Men’s Wrestling Shoes
The HVC Wrestling Shoes is another great pair from HVC that you can use for training and actual fighting. It is available in only one color, so you won’t get many options when it comes to design. The sole of the HVC is made with a rubber compound that gives you good stability and traction on wrestling mats. The uppers feature synthetic suede and leather construction for durability and comfort. They also have single-layer mesh for breathability and comfort.
The HVC Wrestling Shoes also has a lacing garage that allows for a personalized fit. Most of the customers who have used these shoes had positive things to say about it, which serve as a testament to its quality. Despite being comfortable, breathable, and durable, the HVC Wrestling Shoes are inexpensive. So you can get this pair without breaking a bank.
Pros of the Adidas HVC Men’s Wrestling Shoes
- Breathable
- Lacing garage to prevent trips
- Rubber outsole for solid traction
- Durable
- Inexpensive
Cons of the Adidas HVC Men’s Wrestling Shoes
- Sizing issues
19. Adidas Men’s HVC 2
The Adidas Men’s HVC 2 is an upgraded and improved version of the HVC featured above. It has been redesigned keeping the things that were good on the previous model while improving on factors that weren’t too satisfying. This pair comes with synthetic leather and suede uppers combined with mesh material that adds breathability, preventing your feet from sweating. The lacing garage keeps the laces elasticized and secure while a Velcro strap allows you to personalize the fit for maximum stability.
The Adidas HVC 2 also features a full-length one-piece rubber outsole that offers superior grip and mat contact to help you pull off those quick maneuvers. Despite being an upgraded version of the HVC, this pair comes with an affordable price tag. Moreover, it is available in several colors so you should be able to find a pair that best suits you.
There isn’t much to complain about the HVC 2; however, one issue that you should know about is that the sizes run a little small.
Pros of the Adidas Men’s HVC 2
- Durable construction
- Mesh uppers offer breathability
- One-piece rubber outsoles offer excellent traction
- Reasonably priced
Cons of the Adidas Men’s HVC 2
- Sizes run a little small
20. ASICS Men’s Matflex 3 Wrestling Shoe
Last but not least, we have the ASICS Men’s Matflex 3 Wrestling Shoe. It is one of the least expensive pairs available in the market and despite this, it offers pretty decent features. These shoes are designed with California Slip Lasting, which improves comfort and stability. The uppers are made with a breathable mesh material that’s stitched around the canvas and fastened to the midsole
The rubber outsole of the ASICS Men’s Matflex 3 underneath offers exceptional traction or control, so you should be able to make those quick moves without worrying about losing your grip on the mat. The lacing garage of these shoes is integrated and designed for a personalized fit. There is a slot on the tongue that should prevent it from sliding down. The lacing garage complies with the rules of professional tournaments, so you can wear the Matflex 3 to your wrestling matches.
ASICS has cut some corners on quality to reach this price point so the Matflex 3 won’t last a long time. But, it is still a pretty decent choice given the price.
Pros of the ASICS Men’s Matflex 3 Wrestling Shoe
- Rubber outsoles offer exceptional traction
- Inexpensive
- Breathable and comfortable
- Integrated lacing garage
Cons of the ASICS Men’s Matflex 3 Wrestling Shoe
- Not the most durable offering
Final Thoughts
If you really want to improve your performance in the ring and knock down your opponents, pick a pair of wrestling shoes that you find most suitable. With their right wrestling footwear, you would be able to move around the ring quickly, dodge an opponent’s attack and perform your moves with confidence.
We hope you find the information we have provided above helpful. Armed with this knowledge about wrestling shoes, you should be able to find a pair that suits your needs and your wallet. If you are still struggling to find a suitable pair, we’ll make things even easier for you. If you recall, we mentioned our top picks earlier. Now we’ll elaborate on our top three choices and let you know why the ASICS Aggressor 4 Men’s Wrestling Shoes is the best overall choice, what makes the Otomix Men’s Stingray the best premium wrestling footwear, and why we believe that the ASICS Men’s JB Elite is the best value offering out of all the products mentioned in the list. If you have already chosen a pair that you want to buy, feel free to skip this section; otherwise, continue reading to select the right wrestling shoes.
Best Overall Choice
The ASICS Aggressor 4 Men’s Wrestling Shoes has everything that a wrestler could want in their footwear, which makes them the best overall choice footwear. The uppers of these shoes are made with a combination of fabric and suede materials, which makes them flexible and breathable, ensuring that your feet stay cool and dry. Inside the shoe, you get EVA footbeds that offer adequate comfort and support. On top of that, the ankle area is padded to protect your ankles and keep them comfortable. The ASICS Aggressor 4 also features a unique DuoSole outsole, which reduces weight and offers better flexibility, without compromising on traction and durability. This pair also has ankle cushioning that would lend you extra comfort, support, and stability.
Premium Product
If you can afford to buy high-end wrestling shoes, then the Otomix Men’s Stingray is the best option for you. These premium shoes would keep your feet comfortable and protected while you face your opponent. They have solid traction to ensure that you have good control over your feet. A stiff yet comfortable collar is there to provide adequate support to your ankles, without compromising on mobility. The Otomix Men’s Stingray is also extremely breathable – the suede uppers allow air to flow into the shoes, ensuring that your feet remain dry and cool. These shoes are also lightweight, so you should be able to easily move around the ring. The Otomix Men’s Stingray has a long tongue, which supports the entire forefoot area and cushions your instep. Moreover, these shoes feature ankle straps, so you can tighten them to firmly secure your ankles, preventing unnecessary movements.
Best Value
If you want a pair of wrestling shoes that gives you the best bang for your buck, we suggest you go with the ASICS Men’s JB Elite. Named after Olympic freestyle wrestling champion Jordan Burroughs, the JB Elite looks like a retro wrestling shoe and is available in five different colors. This shoe meets professional tournament regulations, so you can use it for competitive wrestling. The uppers of the ASICS JB Elite are made with synthetic leather and single-layer mesh for breathability and comfort. It will prevent your feet from sweating, to ensure that your performance isn’t compromised. The overlays are TPU, which allow for ventilation and a snug fit. These shoes also feature a split rubber sole for enhanced flexibility and traction. We normally see manufactures cutting corners on quality to reach a lower price point. But, this isn’t the case with the JB Elite and this pair offers great value for money.
Now pick a pair from our list and step in the ring with confidence to knock down your opponents and pin them. When deciding to buy wrestling, consider the factors we discussed earlier including the traction, breathability, fit, support, comfort, and durability.
We have provided detailed information on wrestling shoes but if you are still finding it hard to select a pair or have any questions to ask from us, feel free to contact us. We’ll be more than happy to assist you in finding a pair of shoes that would help improve your performance in the ring.