Equipment
The 10 Best Wrestling Shoes Ranked
What are the best wrestling shoes?
The best wrestling shoes will provide a distinct advantage for any level of athlete.
They promote grip advantage on the mat, protect the feet from any damage, and maintain comfort and breathability during every match.
Wrestling shoes are arguably the most important piece of gear that a wrestler owns. From a tactical advantage, they can help a wrestler stay on the mat longer, fight harder, and hold on until the buzzer.
The 10 Best Wrestling Shoes
Our product lists are created by researching the best-reviewed products from the most reputable web sources.
To determine the best wrestling shoes money can buy, we considered the quality, brand reputation, user reviews, and the design and materials used.
Here’s our list of the 10 best wrestling shoes:
In A Rush? Here’s Our Top Pick:
10. Adidas Men’s Wizard 4 Wrestling Shoes
It’s important to trust the pros when it comes to investing in wrestling shoes. There’s no doubt that Adidas knows what they are doing when developing these types of athletic shoes.
These wrestling shoes feature soft, breathable mesh on the upper portion of the shoe to maintain airflow during matches.
In a wide assortment of colors and sizes, athletes of all ages will benefit from wearing these wrestling shoes any time they step into the ring.
Pros
- Open mesh upper for breathability
- Rubberized sole for improved grip
- Completely flat soles for improved combat speed
- Variety of color options
Cons
- Designed for narrow feet
- They take time to break in like most shoes tend to
Bottom Line
Adidas has consistently created high-quality wrestling shoes that don’t require a small fortune. With these on your feet, you’ll be confident any time you step into the boxing ring.
They’re incredibly lightweight while still offering a high-performance option for most wrestlers.
9. ASICS Unisex Snapdown 2 Wrestling Shoes
For a quality mid-range wrestling shoe, ASICS leaves no stone unturned. These unisex wrestling shoes are designed with superior traction for improved flexibility and grip.
You’ll be confident anytime you step onto the wrestling mat that you’ve got ankle support and shoes with performance on your side.
Pros
- Synthetic and rubber soles
- Unisex fit for all wrestlers
- Synthetic skin suede increases breathability
- Single-layer mesh cools feet during use
- Stretchy laces for quick adjustments
Cons
- Narrow design, not ideal for wide feet
Bottom Line
For a lightweight shoe that provides durability and style, the ASICS Unisex Snapdown 2 style is one of the best on the market today.
If you’re seeking breathability and comfort, this may be the perfect pair of wrestling shoes for you.
8. Otomix Men’s Stingray Wrestling Shoes
Otomix Men’s wrestling shoes are a great pair for training, MMA, wrestling, and strength training programs incorporated into a fitness routine.
Wrestlers will enjoy superior traction and stability with an unlimited range of motion in these wrestling shoes.
The shoe soles are glued and sewn on in separate pieces for durability and guaranteed quality. Additional padding in the ankle area will provide extra support for the right fit.
Pros
- Padded liner for ankle support
- Lightweight option with a good grip
- Ultra-light flat, rubber sole
- Variety of color options for personal preference
Cons
- Ideal for wide feet
- The quality of laces leaves much to be desired
Bottom Line
When it comes to wrestling shoe selections, options are an important factor.
Wrestling and boxing shoes that come in various colors and sizes are popular for wrestlers from all different walks of life. This is exactly what the Otomix wrestling shoes offer.
With lightweight durability and a solid grip, you’ll love these wrestling shoes for their comfort and feel any time you step on the mat.
7. Adidas Adizero Varner Mens Wrestling Shoes
Deflect picks and score takedowns with the Adidas Adizero Varner men’s wrestling shoes.
These two-piece engineered mesh wrestling shoes will have you feeling light and quick when you step on the mat.
Welded uppers support quick escapes, while the outsole has durable grips for stability.
Pros
- Mesh lining and lace-up closure
- Lightweight upper for the agile wrestler
- Broken-in feel right out of the box
- Ideal for all sorts of training and practice
Cons
- Not for people with wide feet
Bottom Line
Quality wrestling shoes don’t have to cost a pretty penny. Thanks to Adidas, beginners, and seasoned veterans can find the perfect shoe for their needs in the sport.
These wrestling shoes are great for kicks, MMA, and many other training purposes. Whether you have wide or flat feet, these shoes will support your ventures on the mat.
6. Nike Men’s Inflict 3 Wrestling Shoes
For unstoppable comfort, durability, and traction, these Nike Men’s Inflict 3 wrestling shoes are a prized choice.
Featuring great flexibility and soft materials, wrestlers will stay cool and dry during matches in these shoes.
With supportive mobility and arch support, many athletes use these for lower-body workouts and in place of running shoes.
Pros
- Breathable mesh upper
- Gum rubber outsole and forefoot straps
- Versatile color options
- Impressive ankle support
Cons
- Expensive price point
Bottom Line
For proper grip, ankle support, and a perfect fit, it’s no wonder so many wrestlers chose these Nike shoes during training and matches.
These are the perfect shoes for a variety of activities, which is how most wrestlers use them.
5. Nike Men’s Fury Wrestling Shoes
Nike is one of the top contenders for the best wrestling shoes on this list, and for good reason.
The Nike Fury wrestling shoes are the cream of the crop in terms of design, materials, and breathability.
With ankle support and sturdy traction, these may be the perfect wrestling shoe for you.
Pros
- The sole is made from synthetic rubber
- Superior breathability
- Impressive lockdown and traction
- It comes in black, gray, and blue
Cons
- Not water resistant
- No tongue in the shoe, so they can’t be loosened much
Bottom Line
You can’t go wrong with Nike wrestling shoes – prove us wrong!
With superior traction, a rubberized sole, and a good grip, wrestlers of all heights and weights will experience comfort and speed in these wrestling shoes.
Just like the best weightlifting shoes, Nike Fury wrestling shoes offer stability and foot support during tough fights and quick movements.
4. Adidas Mat Wizard Hype Wrestling Shoes
Not every wrestler has narrow feet, and it seems like many wrestling shoes are designed for this demographic.
The Adidas Mat Wizard Hype wrestling shoes cater to heavier wrestlers with wide feet.
While many new wrestling shoes are difficult to break in and take time to get comfortable, these will feel like they were made for your feet.
Pros
- Rubberized sole
- They fit true to size
- Unisex fit
- Stylish white and silver colors
- Suitable for wide feet
Cons
- No noteworthy cons to report
Bottom Line
With a unique design, durable soles, and a strong grip, many wrestlers choose to wear this pair of Adidas wrestling shoes over any other shoe.
If you have wider feet than average or need wiggle room, this is a great wrestling shoe option for you.
When you purchase wrestling shoes, ensuring the width, as well as length, and fit can be challenging. It’s good to know Adidas is designing their wrestling shoes for all different sizes; no wonder they’re one of our top picks!
3. ASICS Men’s Matcontrol Wrestling Shoes
Advanced and beginner wrestlers alike will agree that some of their favorite wrestling shoes are made by ASICS.
It’s no surprise why – the brand seems to understand exactly what athletes need on the wrestling mat, during training, when lifting weights, and much more.
When a sport requires shoes with proper grip and durability, the ASICS Matcontrol wrestling shoes check every box. One pair will last you for many matches, and you’ll probably be back to purchase another pair of the same shoes.
Pros
- Integrated lace garage technology
- Ankle padding support
- Made from synthetic and mesh for breathability
- Affordable price tag
Cons
- These shoes run small; most users recommend sizing up at least half a size
Bottom Line
For a soft, comfortable pair of wrestling shoes that protect the ankles, prevent potential injuries or slipping on the mat, and offer quality materials, ASICS has gotten the job done right.
When you shop for any type of athletic shoe, the most important piece to consider is the comfort of your feet. If your feet hurt, you aren’t going to be performing at your maximum.
Just as you would purchase cross-training shoes based on comfort, be sure to select the best shoes based on comfort and stability for wrestling.
2. ASICS Men’s Dan Gable Evo 2 Wrestling Shoes
ASICS provides the right pair of wrestling shoes for athletes all over the world.
Created to honor the great wrestling legend Danny Mack Gable, the Dan Gable Evo 2 wrestling shoes nod to his style and perseverance in the sport.
Thoughtful features in these wrestling shoes include a sturdy grip and mesh soles for breathability and comfort. Enjoy moisture management to avoid any slipping.
The ASICS Evo 2 split-sole shoes are high on our list for many reasons, and the quality is unmatched.
You’ll enjoy a responsive rebound thanks to the non-slip performance of the grip on these shoes. Additionally, watch your combat speed improve as you gain confidence on the mat.
Pros
- Come in bright, flashy colors
- Mesh sole for breathability
- Ortholite sockliner improves moisture management
- Excellent grip for wrestlers of all skill levels
- Many use these split-sole shoes for running
Cons
- Run half a size small
Bottom Line
Wrestlers require shoes that are durable and can last through a lot of wear and tear. That’s the name of the game, after all.
It should come as no surprise that ASICS continues to offer the best wrestling shoes that money can buy. The Dan Gable Evo 2 model is no different.
1. ASICS Men’s Cael V7.0 Wrestling Shoes
ASICS provides the best performance and quality wrestling shoes that money can buy.
We’ve established they’re the best in the game, so it should come as no surprise that the Cael V7.0 wrestling shoes are the number one choice on this list.
Ultimate comfort is achieved through the convenient lace garage, breathable tongue, and wrestling-specific traction zones through the split sole design.
With an exceptional fit for athletes of various sizes, the Cael V7.0 shoes bring the renowned combat speed of the brand.
There’s no denying that ASICS understands the mechanics and requirements for wrestling shoes better than any other brand on the market.
Pros
- Made from 100% synthetic materials
- Designed with ecsaine material and open mesh upper
- Lace garage to tuck in laces
- Split sole design for optimum performance
- Non-slip design for confidence in the ring
Cons
- Expensive price point
Bottom Line
A wrestler of any skill level will tell you the importance of having a quality, split-sole shoe anytime they step on the mat.
The best wrestling shoes will support your ankles and arches, ensure you have a proper grip on the mat during intense moments, and have traction to win the match.
If you’re going to purchase a pair of wrestling shoes and you can swing this price, we can’t recommend ASICS enough. Wear these shoes on the mat, during training, and during many other workouts.
FAQs About Wrestling Shoes
Every wrestling shoe is different, and it’s essential to understand the fundamentals and benefits of the sport as you shop for the best wrestling shoes for your needs.
Get all your questions answered about wrestling shoes here.
Q: What are the benefits of wrestling shoes?
Wrestling shoes are designed to be lightweight, comfortable, and supportive of the ankles and arches. These kinds of shoes typically have a high-top design to protect the ankles from rolling at any point during wear.
The unique split-sole bottom is designed to provide more traction for wrestlers as they battle it out on the mat.
Because they are lightweight, wrestling shoes are supposed to mimic the feeling of being barefoot on the mat. This allows wrestlers to maintain proper grip and form.
Q: What do wrestling shoes feel like?
Wrestling shoes are designed to be tight-fitting, like the perfect shoe that hugs your foot in the best way.
The fit can take some getting used to, but ultimately, it helps athletes become better wrestlers. They have to learn to control their movements, improve their grip strength, and prevent slippage on the mat.
Q: Do you need to break in wrestling shoes?
Many wrestling shoes do have a break-in period that is slightly uncomfortable but necessary.
Because each wrestling shoe is made from tight, synthetic materials, it’s important to put your shoes on and walk around in them quite a bit before training with them on.
You’ll need to stretch out the material, make sure you like the feel of them, and adjust the laces to your liking.
Many wrestlers wear them for walks or low-impact cardio to break them in, while others may wear them while lifting weights.
Would you step on one of the best treadmills with a brand new pair of running shoes on and expect to run 10 miles? Probably not.
Wrestling shoes also require some attention and wear before you can wear them confidently in a match or training session.
Q: Should wrestling shoes be tight or loose?
Wrestling shoes are designed to mimic the feeling of being barefoot, so they should fit snugly.
The shoes should be a tighter fit than an athletic shoe but still comfortable enough that you have a full range of motion and feel confident in stepping onto the mat.
This type of shoe is also designed to be snug in order to protect the ankles from rolling during combat.
Q: How long do wrestling shoes last?
Depending on how often they are used, wrestling shoes should last at least two years.
For high school and collegiate wrestlers, many get 2 seasons out of each pair of shoes. This also depends on how much money you’re willing to spend on a quality pair of shoes.
Lesser-known brands that are more budget-friendly aren’t always made with the most high-quality materials. Because of this, they won’t last as long as the big names like ASICS and Adidas will.
If you’re purchasing wrestling shoes for daily use or for other activities like cross-training or weight lifting, expect to get a solid year out of them before needing a replacement.
Summary
Comfort, a snug fit, and an ergonomic design are what you should be looking for in the perfect wrestling shoe.
Sport-specific features like a split sole design and reliable ankle support will ensure your performance stays up as you improve your skills on the mat.
The best wrestling shoes will give you the confidence to take on any opponent, and knowing your skills and dedication to the sport will get you a win.
Here’s a quick recap of the 10 best wrestling shoes:
- ASICS Men’s Cael V7.0 Wrestling Shoes
- ASICS Men’s Dan Gable Evo 2 Wrestling Shoes
- ASICS Men’s Matcontrol Wrestling Shoes
- Adidas Mat Wizard Hype Wrestling Shoes
- Nike Men’s Fury Wrestling Shoes
- Nike Men’s Inflict 3 Wrestling Shoes
- Adidas Adizero Varner Mens Wrestling Shoes
- Otomix Men’s Stingray Wrestling Shoes
- ASICS Unisex Snapdown 2 Wrestling Shoes
- Adidas Men’s Wizard 4 Wrestling Shoes
