Athletic shoes are a big investment. You want to make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck, and that starts with making sure they fit just right. Here’s a quick guide on how to make sure your wrestling shoes fit like a glove…or rather, how to make sure they don’t feel like one.
There’s a big difference between a shoe that’s too small and one that’s too big. If your shoe is too small, it’s going to be extremely uncomfortable. Your toes are going to feel cramped, and you’re likely to experience blisters and other issues. On the other hand, if your shoe is too big, it’s going to feel sloppy and it’s going to be difficult to get the proper traction when you need it most. So how can you tell if a shoe is too small or too big?
How Should Wrestling Shoes Fit
Snug Fit That Allows Natural Movements
The best wrestling shoes should be tight, but not too tight. Wrestling shoes should be snug around the heel and mid-foot, with a little extra room in the toe box which will allow natural movements that help you balance. You want your wrestling shoes to absolutely avoid a loose fit you won’t be able to move as well and it can cause blisters. Personally, I like being able to go through simple drills and movements without feeling like I’ve cut off circulation to my toes.
Stability and Ankle Support
Wrestling shoes need to provide maximum stability and ankle support. Wrestling shoes should have a high-top design or else they won’t provide ankle support or prevent sprains or injury. High top wrestling shoes provide extra protection to avoid injury from sudden and unexpected movements. If they aren’t high-top they aren’t real wrestling shoes.
Traction and Grip
The grip of the shoe needs to be good enough to provide traction on sweaty and smooth mats, which will allow you to provide maximum power through your legs. If the grip isn’t good you are going to lose no matter your wrestling style or how good you are at combat sports. The importance of grip is why most wrestling shoes have split sole bottoms to help improve traction. The split sole is standard in the wrestling world since it provides more flexibility and grip. That’s why I recommend rubber soles with a split sole where there are two different sections to the sole, unlike running shoes where the sole is one whole piece.
Lightweight
Wrestling is all about speed and power, so it’s important to make sure your shoes are lightweight. Avoid shoes with heavy midsoles or added materials that bulk up the shoe and slow you down, because you will lose in the end.
When choosing wrestling shoes you should take these factors into consideration and try on different sizes and styles until you find the perfect fit. If you follow this process and focus on these aspects then buying wrestling shoes should be easy. With a little time and effort, you’ll be able to find the perfect wrestling shoes for you that will help you perform your best on the mat.
Process for Finding Wrestling Shoes That Fit
- First, take a look at the size chart for whatever wrestling shoes you are looking to buy. Most size charts will have a general guideline for what size shoe you should wear based on your weight and height. However, keep in mind that every person is different, so don’t hesitate to try on a few different sizes to see what feels best when buying wrestling shoes.
- Don’t focus on getting the most expensive shoes more money doesn’t mean better for you. There are good quality wrestling shoes at multiple different price points.
- Order your wrestling shoes from a place with free returns. That way you can order multiple sizes to ensure you get the right fit for your wrestling shoe.
- Once you have found a good pair try to place your fingers between the shoe and ankle. If they fit easily, you may want to consider a smaller size. If you have cut off circulation you might want a slightly larger size.
- Ensure that when you have the wrestling shoe on the laces are not fully tightened. You want this in case the shoe stretches out as you wear it you will have some wiggle room to tighten the shoes again.
- Make sure they feel lightweight. You need to ensure they feel light on your feet because this will help with speed and power on the mat. Try them out in different positions to make sure they feel good during different movements. Jump, run, pivot, and practice some wrestling moves to see if the shoes are stable enough for you. Pay attention to the materials of the shoes and ensure they are breathable and flexible. You want a material that will be able to stretch as needed, absorb sweat, and still provide support for your body.
Things to avoid to ensure you have a good fit
- Overlooking lacing system: Opt for shoes with a lacing system that allows you to adjust the fit to your preference. This ensures a secure and customized fit.
- Prioritizing style over fit: While aesthetics are nice, don’t prioritize style over finding a well-fitting pair of wrestling shoes. Performance and comfort should be your primary concerns.
- Buying based on brand alone: Different brands have varying shoe designs and sizing, so don’t assume your usual shoe size will be the same across all brands. Always check the size chart for each specific pair.
- Rushing the decision: Take your time when selecting wrestling shoes. Rushing the decision may result in choosing the wrong fit, leading to discomfort and hindering your performance.
- Ignoring reviews and recommendations: Take advantage of online reviews and seek advice from experienced wrestlers or coaches. They can offer insights into different shoe models and brands, helping you make an informed decision.
- Overlooking toe space: Make sure there’s enough room for your toes to move comfortably without feeling cramped. Too much pressure on your toes can lead to discomfort and potential injuries.
By being mindful of these factors and making informed choices, you’ll increase your chances of finding wrestling shoes that fit well and provide the support needed for your wrestling endeavors. A well-fitted pair of wrestling shoes can significantly enhance your performance and overall experience on the mat.
We know that finding the perfect pair of wrestling shoes can feel daunting and hopefully we have helped you answer the question how are wrestling shoes supposed to fit? Just follow these simple guidelines and you’ll be sure to find a pair that fits just right. And once you do, we guarantee they’ll be your new best friend come match day.