11 Best Wrestling Shoes in 2021

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ASICS Men’s Split Second 9: Best Overall Wrestling Shoe

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ASICS Unisex Snapdown 2: Best for Mid-Level Wrestlers

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Adidas Performance Men’s Adizero XIV: Best for Mat Wrestlers

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Growing up, you probably thought wrestling was real. Later, you discovered it was just a show to entertain people. That must have stirred up your interest and have you decided to take wrestling as a favorite sport. Either you are a professional, or you are an amateur while at it, there are things you will need. One of such things is a wrestling shoe. See the Best Shoes for Walking.

Most people may not see how essential a wrestling shoe is until they discover it has so much to do with improving skills and enhancing movement. Wrestling shoes are a lot different from regular shoes, based on the kind of features they are made of. Also, the qualities they possess make the difference too. Thus, if you belong to this category of people, you need the best wrestling shoe more than ever.

Fortunately, this guide talks about the 11 best wrestling shoes currently available on the market. They have been selected using specific criteria, which would be discussed later below. Also, their respective pros and cons have been highlighted. All of these so that you have an idea of what you are signing up to use.

Additionally, the buying guide part of the article should put you through any situation you find yourself with wrestling shoes. It is with the sincere hope that you get to choose the best shoe for yourself after reading this review article.

The 11 Best Wrestling Shoes Reviewed

Below is a list of the best wrestling shoes with their reviews. These shoes are available as men’s, women’s, as well as unisex.

1

ASICS Men’s Split Second 9: Best Overall Wrestling Shoe

One of the best brands to get wrestling shoes from is ASICS. There are many shoes from this brand, but ASICS Men’s Split Second 9 is an exception. It has a remarkable design, i.e., split-sole, which makes it one of the reasons why most people prefer them. This pair of shoes has outstanding statistics for flexibility, weight, support, Traction, and comfort. It is also a right choice of shoe to use under duress and promote health, as well as fitness.

While ASICS Men’s Split Second 9 has a pleasant feel on the underfoot, it offers support more than anything. This attribute is with the snug fit provided by the pair of shoes. Therefore, you are assured to be in the best form while facing your opponent. Also, this shoe has a synthetic and mesh upper that brings about breathability and durability, simultaneously. The split rubber sole makes the shoe lightweight, and the tread pattern provides it with superior Traction. Indeed, it is high-performance footwear that would make wrestling easy for you.

Key Features:

  • Rubber Sole
  • Tread Pattern
  • Synthetic and Mesh Material
  • Split-Sole Design
  • Professional Type

Specification:

  • Men’s Shoe
  • Red/Black Color
  • Brand name: ASICS
Pros
  • One of the best wrestling shoes for wide feet
  • Superior Traction and Excellent Snug Fit
  • Suitable for Professional Wrestlers
  • Sole is different but outstanding
Cons
  • Sizing may be a problem

2

ASICS Unisex Snapdown 2: Best for Mid-Level Wrestlers

Another ASICS shoe for wrestling that you will love is ASICS Unisex Snapdown 2. This shoe is considerably right for intermediate wrestlers because of its design and style. It is a perfect choice for people looking for shoes with enhanced perfromance. Additionally, it offers stability and control are kept at the highest.

ASICS Unisex Snapdown 2, as the name implies, is an excellent choice for both male and female wrestlers. This pair of shoes has a unique technology – Integrated Lace Garage for top-notch Security and accessibility. Also, it has a full-length rubber outsole that enhances stability and durability. With this feature, there is Serra Dial Traction Pods that improves both Grip and Flexibility of the shoe. Most importantly, the synthetic and single-layer mesh upper material makes sure airflow is seamless, preventing the buildup of moisture from the foot. Thus, there is a higher chance of improving your skills with the shoe.

Key Features:

  • Synthetic and Mesh Material
  • Serra Dial Traction Pods
  • Integrated Lace Garage Technology
  • Rubber Sole
  • Synthetic Skin-Suede
  • Intermediate Type

Specification:

  • Unisex Shoe
  • Brand name: ASICS
  • Stone Grey/Classic Red Color
Pros
  • A suitable choice for intermediate wrestlers
  • Snug fit and Comfortable
  • Supportive with fantastic Traction
  • Improved with advanced tech for Security
  • Available for both men and women
  • Breathable, Flexible, and Lightweight
Cons
  • Narrow width – not suitable for wide feet

3

Adidas Performance Men’s Adizero XIV: Best for Mat Wrestlers

You probably must have seen a lot from Adidas. Adidas Performance Men’s Adizero XIV is their most popular wrestling shoe with performance. The purpose this pair of shoes serve is to make sure you get to use your mat with ease. Whatever grip you need, the soles provide. This reason is why it is only available to professional/advanced wrestlers. It is worth a good value for money if you consider all the features it has.

The kind of sole Adidas Performance Men’s Adizero XIV has, is unique – suede sole. It works alongside rubberized inserts for maximum Grip and Traction. It would even surprise you that this shoe has an incredible fit, as it molds into your feet effortlessly. Also, the lightweight body makes it more useful; thus, you can move around with ease without being drawn back. Finally, it has a stylish design, so that you could look better while at your opponent.

Key Features:

  • Synthetic and Fabric Material
  • Lace-Up Closure
  • Suede Outsole
  • 2 Engineered Meshes
  • Rubberized Inserts
  • Professional Type

Specification:

  • Brand name: Adidas
  • Men’s Shoe
  • Black/White Color
Pros
  • Breathable and Comfortable with its 2 engineered meshes
  • One of the ideal choices for professional mat wrestlers
  • Inserts are firm and powerful
  • Stylish design and supportive body
  • Easy to move around with – lightweight
  • Enhanced Grip and Traction
Cons
  • Breathable, but retains odor

4

Adidas Unisex Matflex 6: Best Durable Shoe

Also, one of the top Adidas wrestling shoes is the Unisex Matflex 6. This footwear was designed for 2 sole purposes – improve performance on a wrestling mat and provide superior durability. This pair of shoes is suitable for professionals, based on its design, quality of material, and performance. However, it has a lightweight body, which makes it easy to carry or maneuver in a wrestling ring.

Adidas Unisex Matflex 6 has a mesh insole that promises to keep the foot comfortable always. This feature would also help improve the flow of air and circulation of blood around the feet while in use. There is a lightly padded collar and tongue for extra comfort; thus, you can be guaranteed that it would maximize all its potentials. With its full-length rubber outsole, Traction is enhanced to its maximum for an excellent performance. Additionally, the safety and Security of this pair of wrestling shoes depend on the integrated lace garage technology. Overall, it is a durable choice of shoe.

Key Features:

  • Mesh Insole
  • Mesh Upper with Synthetic Overlays
  • Full-length Rubber Sole
  • Light Padded Collar and Tongue
  • Integrated Lace Garage Technology
  • Supportive Hi-Top Silhouette
  • Professional Type

Specification:

  • Brand name: Adidas
  • Black/Silver Color
  • Unisex Shoe
Pros
  • Available in several color patterns
  • Can be used by either gender
  • Improves and boosts a wrestler’s confidence
  • Provides maximum Grip and Traction
  • Super supportive and Comfortable to use
  • Offers arch support with its silhouette design
Cons
  • Runs very small

5

Nike Men’s Speedsweep VII: Best Wrestling Shoes for Boxing

While mentioning the names of famous brands in the shoe business, Nike is always going to be one. On the best wrestling shoes, Nike Men’s Speedsweep VII is an excellent choice to pick. The reason is that it has exclusive features that enhance skills and performance. Significantly, it is one of the best wrestling shoes for boxing, based on its design. Using this pair of shoes, you are assured of breathability and flexibility.

Nike Men’s Speedsweep VII delivers cushioning with the help of its Die-cut EVA Sockliners. They are also the feature responsible for breathability or the absorption of moisture from the feet. Also, the mesh upper enhances airflow within the shoe, so that it stays comfortable and dry all day. As regards your stability, it is all dependent on the gum rubber outsoles available. Lastly, this pair of wrestling shoes have a split-suede and leather material that makes it look pleasant and durable.

Key Features:

  • Leather and Mesh Material
  • Split Suede Upper
  • Gum Rubber Outsoles
  • Die-cut EVA Sockliners
  • Mid-top Style

Specification:

  • Brand name: Nike
  • Men’s Shoe
  • Black/White Color
Pros
  • One of the best wrestling shoes for boxing
  • Maximum Stability and Flexibility
  • Easy to put on, as well as supportive in nature
  • Beautiful appearance and Lightweight body
  • Superior Cushioning for comfort
  • Offers optimum arch support
  • Most durable pair of wrestling footwear worth the money
Cons
  • Sizing issues

6

Adidas Wrestling Men’s Combat Speed 4: Best Lightweight Shoe

Are you an advanced wrestler looking for something ultra-lightweight? Adidas Wrestling Men’s Combat Speed 4 is the answer you seek. This pair of shoes was designed so that it could give comfort in the best possible way, including having a lightweight. Other attributes it has that makes it worth the price are excellent durability and flexibility. It feels so great on the foot as it is also breathable. Movement back and forth in a wrestling ring is made possible with this beautiful piece.

Adidas Wrestling Men’s Combat Speed 4 has a snug fit, but this is due to the kind of features it has. For instance, it has an integral support strap that enhances accessibility, as well as security. The unique feature works with the TPU 3-stripes also designed in the shoe. The Die-cut EVA Midsole, on the other hand, makes sure the foot stays comfortable all-day long. Also, it has split suede design to give it a stylish appearance and enhanced Traction when worn into a ring. Generally, this shoe is the tight, yet comfortable shoe you need to be better at wrestling.

Key Features:

  • Leather Outsole
  • Split Suede Design
  • Leather and Synthetic Single-Layer Mesh Upper
  • Professional Type
  • Integral Support Strap
  • Die-cut EVA Midsole
  • TPU 3-Stripes

Specification:

  • Brand name: Adidas
  • Black/Blue Beauty Color
  • Men’s Shoe
Pros
  • Gives a snug fit with features present
  • Accessibility and Security is made easy
  • Ultra-lightweight body for maximum performance
  • Supportive and Flexible in quality
  • Enhanced Traction and Grip
  • Provides the right level of spin
Cons
  • Straps are not so durable

7

ASICS Men’s Cael V8.0: Best for New Wrestlers

With much emphasis on how outstanding ASICS has been, here is another product that would catch your fancy. ASICS Men’s Cael V8.0 is a suitable choice for people who want to try out wrestling for the first time. You could also use it if you want to migrate to the next level – intermediate. This is an exciting choice of a shoe concerning its features and body material. Also, it has an advanced tech for top-notch performance. In essence, you wouldn’t regret using this pair of shoes.

ASICS Men’s Cael V8.0 follows the standard lacing system for wrestling shoes, i.e., Integrated Lace Garage Technology. This feature would help to ensure the shoe stays fitted and tight to the foot when it is time to wrestle. The upper material of this pair of shoes is a synthetic material that is breathable and durable. Also, arch and heel support are guaranteed with the design of the shaft, which is mid-top. To the list of vital features, there is an internal elastic sleeve called the Mono-Sock Fit that provides comfort.

Key Features:

  • Synthetic Material
  • Rubber Sole
  • Integrated Lace Garage Technology
  • Super Suede Ecsaine
  • Mono-Sock Fit
  • The shaft is mid-top from arch
  • Beginner Type

Specification:

  • Brand name: ASICS
  • Men’s Shoe
  • Black/White/Blue Color
Pros
  • One of the best choices for beginners
  • Provides all the necessary support and comfort needed by the foot
  • Durable soles with excellent Traction
  • Offers a maximum speed
Cons
  • Runs small sometimes

8

ASICS Men’s Omniflex-Attack 2: Best Wrestling Shoe for Grip

Are you in need of a wrestling shoe that will improve the condition of your feet? ASICS Men’s Omniflex-Attack 2 would be the perfect one for you. This shoe has an innovative design to make sure wrestlers get the best when they are in a ring. It is smooth and topnotch in performance. Based on reviews from intermediate wrestlers, this footwear is the active apparel for your wrestling career.

ASICS Men’s Omniflex-Attack 2 has a unique flexion fit proprietary upper that offers both comfort and support. This pair of shoes help you to stay fit with the compression-fit bootie system present. Also, accessibility and Security are both provided by the standard lace garage technology for closure. Overall, this shoe has an Omniflex rubber sole that provides an ultimate grip and Traction throughout the day.

Key Features:

  • Omniflex Sole Design
  • 100% Synthetic Material
  • Lace Garage Technology
  • Flexion Fit Proprietary Upper
  • Compression-Fit Bootie System
  • Intermediate Type

Specification:

  • Brand name: ASICS
  • Men’s Shoe
  • True Blue/Shocking Orange Color
Pros
  • Offers support and comfort simultaneously without hassle
  • Stability and Closure are extraordinary
  • Superior Grip more than any ASICS shoe
  • Innovative design and healthy benefits
Cons
  • Sizing issues may occur

9

ASICS Men’s JB Elite III: Best Flexibility Shoe

With a personality like Jordan Burroughs – a Four-Time World Champion and a Two-Time Olympic Champion attesting to the efficacy of ASICS Men’s JB Elite III, you can only hope for the best. This pair of shoes is made to improve your skills and boost your confidence on the mat. It is the incredible footwear with premium features for performance. In simple terms, it is the most flexible shoe for wrestling to own.

ASICS Men’s JB Elite III has a revamped open-mesh upper that improves the flow of air into the foot. It also makes sure it stays comfortable and fitted to whoever wears it. This footwear has a unique split-sole design that makes it flexible as well as durable. Arch support is another vital attribute that it offers with the help of its mid-top shaft. Likewise, this pair of shoes use a lace garage technology for Security.

Key Features:

  • Lace Garage Technology
  • Rubber Sole
  • Synthetic Material
  • Smooth Body Construction
  • Open Mesh Upper
  • Split Sole Design
  • Shaft is mid-top from arch

Specification:

  • Brand name: ASICS
  • Men’s Shoe
  • Rich Gold/Black Color
Pros
  • Streamlined body for comfort
  • Supportive and Durable
  • Topnotch flexible and a perfect fit for anyone
  • Suitable to use for boxing as well as weightlifting
Cons
  • Runs small, sometimes

10

Brute JS25 Elite: Best Alternative Shoe

If you want to take a break from the usual, Brute JS25 Elite is a perfect option to choose. This pair of shoes has a pleasant design for people with classy taste. It is one of the best alternative shoes for intermediate wrestlers. Take a look at its features, and you will be impressed at why it is worth the value of money.

Brute JS25 Elite is a signature shoe manufactured in honor of John Smith – the 6th World Champion, OSU Head Coach, 5th NCAA Champion Coach, and 2nd Olympic Gold Medalist. The asymmetric lacing still makes sure Security and accessibility are topnotch. Also, it uses a flexible rubber sole – a feature that ensures stability and support. Another unique characteristic of this pair of shoes is the sock-like design. The feature gives it the necessary comfort and breathability needed. Indeed, it would work effectively anytime you are ready to wrestle.

Key Features:

  • Asymmetric Lacing
  • Sock-like Design
  • Lace Cover with Velcro Closure
  • Flexible Rubber Sole
  • Removable Sock Liner
  • Intermediate Type

Specification:

  • Brand name: Brute
  • Men’s Shoe
  • Sun/Red/Silver Color
Pros
  • Less sole constriction to aid smooth movement to and fro
  • Ultra-lightweight body
  • Superb Traction with its outsole hones
  • Breathable and Comfortable to wear
Cons
  • Not a suitable choice for wide feet (tight fit shoe)
  • Sizing issues

11

Adidas HVC Speed: Best Cheap Shoe for Wrestling

Do you need any cheap wrestling shoes? Adidas HVC Speed is quite the catch. This pair of shoes has an extraordinary feel on foot. It is best known for its durability as well as flexibility on the mat. Most importantly, it offers arch and heel support so that you can move with ease.

Adidas HVC Speed is a fantastic choice of shoe, as it has lace straps, which are elasticized and lace-up closure. Both features ensure maximum Security and accessibility for the foot. Also, this footwear has a full-length rubber sole that provides stability, support, and enhanced Grip for high performance. While all of these are the right parts of the shoe, Adidas HVC Speed has a unique single-layer mesh that ensures breathability. Considering that, it is worth the price.

Key Features:

  • Synthetic Leather and Suede Material
  • Full-Length Rubber Sole
  • Elasticized Lace Straps
  • Professional Type
  • Single-Layer Mesh

Specification:

  • Brand name: Adidas
  • Men’s Shoe
  • Black/White/Iron-Metallic Color
Pros
  • A suitable shoe for both wrestling and boxing
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Offers ankle and heel support
  • Flexible Beginner and Professional choice
Cons
  • Durability is not as expected

Buying Guide Questions

Have you found shoe(s), you love? Are you uncertain that you are making the right decision? This question-and-answer section should settle all doubts you have as regards wrestling shoes. Besides, they help you to negotiate factors and features to consider before choosing a shoe for wrestling.

Related: Read on the Best shoes for Indoor soccer

Are Nike wrestling shoes good?

Nike is one of the most popular brands in the fashion industry. They have made over thousands to millions of products which are now used extensively in sports such as basketball and running. The reason why they are that famous is that they are known for their premium-quality, smart, fast, and extraordinary taste. Nike gives end-users the right product according to individual taste. It is not a surprise that they have also invested in wrestling too.

Several of their products are used in boxing and wrestling; thus, you can agree that Nike wrestling shoes are good. For example, Nike Men’s Speedsweep VII is its fast-selling product. This choice is because it has an exotic taste and performs excessively in a ring or on a mat. Also, the design is top-notch, as it is best suited for a small area where quick maneuverability is needed.

There are other Nike shoes available, but for fantastic user experience, Speedsweep VII is the ultimate choice.

What are wrestling shoes good for?

Sometimes, you wonder – why are wrestling shoes different from the shoes you wear on a typical day? Why can’t you use running shoes or anything else? Well, the answers are not far-fetched.

First of all, wrestling shoes have been designed to have a similar feel with a barefoot but with excellent cushioning and more Traction. Of course, you are not expected to go into a ring with your barefoot. This shoe would keep you on your toes for as long as you are still facing your opponent. In essence, it provides support to the feet and ankles.

Also, a wrestling shoe is almost similar to a boxing shoe but with little differences. Both of them are used in a ring to wrestle opponents; however, boxing shoes are provided with higher ankle support than wrestling shoes. This extra support would help to prevent injuries. Additionally, boxing shoe soles are smoother than the wrestling shoe soles. Interestingly, there are wrestling shoes that can also be used as boxing shoes from the list.

Related: Check out this review on the Best Boxing Shoes and see the subtle differences between them and wrestling shoes

On the other hand, Rudis wrestling shoes are the most breathable types you will find.

How long do wrestling shoes last?

Nothing lasts forever. At one point in time, the best things you buy, regardless of how durable it is, would fall apart. What matters is: how long you were able to use it and how effective it was during its use? If the answers are relatively right, compared to what the manufacturer promised, then you bought a product that was worth the money.

For wrestling shoes, you are probably going to be using it at most 6 times a week, depending on how much you love wrestling. It could be lesser if you are an amateur or intermediate wrestler and like to do Zumba workouts on the side as well. However, what can be promised is that: the best wrestling shoes should last between 1 to 2 years. On several occasions, it has been observed that expensive shoes do not last longer than cheaper ones; therefore, a top-end wrestling shoe with high durability is going to be an ideal choice.

Do you wear socks with wrestling shoes?

Getting a wrestling shoe is the first step to entering a ring. From the above, it is easy to choose what you want; however, there is something else you might need – socks. Generally, wrestling shoes can be worn bare feet with your shoes or with socks. The reason for the latter is to ensure snug fit as well as breathability.

While you are out choosing what kind of socks to buy, put it in mind that the material has to be Quality Cotton. If you go for other materials, like Nylon, the chances of having moisture around your feet is high. Ensure you are ready to wash the socks regularly to prevent the buildup of germs. Also, the color of the socks should match the color of the shoe.

Should wrestling shoes be tight?

The whole point of having a wrestling shoe on is to make sure you can move fast back and forth in a ring; your shoe needs to be tightly fitted to do that. You don’t want a scenario where your shoes slip off when you are facing your opponent – an epic disaster. What you should be considerate about is that: the shoe should be tight, but not too tight to cause discomfort. Say, a snug fit is appropriate to keep you stable.

To pick a tight shoe that won’t itch or rub against the feet to cause blisters, you should check out the various sizes available. While you are picking, ensure it is your actual size. With all that in consideration, you should have a smooth experience.

How to clean wrestling shoes?

All that has been described of wrestling shoes has never been more accurate. What is left to know is how to clean wrestling shoes to keep its quality intact. Proper care and maintenance make the shoe easy to use as well as improve feet condition. There are three ways to clean your shoe.

Use warm water and dish soap to wipe the shoe all around. Use disinfectants too.

In case there are stubborn stains and scuffs, use toothpaste and brush to clean the surface

If insoles are removable, wash, and dry—also, clean shoelaces either with machine wash or hand wash.

Insider Tip: you can use at home shoe stretcher kits to keep your wrestling shoe in the exact shape you need it to be for the big fight!

Use any of these methods, as deemed appropriate. You can take care of other wrestling gear, equipment and facilities too.

Conclusion

Wrestling is a sport that requires you to give all you have got. While there are many things you need, the shoe is the most vital gear. The reason has been explained already. Besides, everyone deserves a pair of shoes that will be a snug fit, comfortable, and easy to wear. Therefore, this review is your ultimate guide.

Have you seen what you like? The answer should be affirmative because above is a list of the 11 best wrestling shoes available, and you can’t afford to miss that. The whole work has been done to present to you the best choices; it is left to you to check out the features you love. Also, you can compare with the buying guide section for factors that would enable you to choose what is right.