Asics Ultratek Wrestling Shoes
It’s that time of the season again when wrestlers start looking for a new pair of shoes. We wanted to put something together to help people out to find the right pair of shoes for their feet, without spending a fortune. Let us know what you think and if you have any questions.
Finding The Correct Size
The first thing you should do is measure your foot to determine your normal shoe size. A typical pair of wrestling shoes will generally run one half to one full size larger than your normal shoes, depending on the brand that you choose. Check out our wrestling shoes sizing charts for more brand specific info. Keep in mind that your new wrestling shoes will probably stretch somewhat after a few practices and that they should fit fairly snugly.
Brand Selection
When shopping for wrestling shoes, you can put your trust in “battle tested brands” such as Asics, Adidas, Infinity, and Brute. A good quality-wrestling shoe will normally last a year or two; it all depends on how much you wrestle. Keep in mind that comfort is extremely important. Look for a shoe that features a good rubber sole and high ankle support. The higher quality wrestling shoes are made out of a lightweight material that breathes well. It is recommended that you try on several different brands to find the one best suited for you. Don’t hesitate to ask the salesperson for help. If you are still not sure which shoe to purchase, try to get a recommendation from your coach or your teammates.
If you are buying your wrestling shoes online, go to the store first to try them on. Once you know what kind you want, shop around to get an idea of pricing. Many times you can find a better deal (and selection) online than what you can find at your local sporting goods store.
Color and Style
Many manufacturers offer a wide selection of colors to choose from. Select a color that agrees with you and goes well with your other equipment.
Choose either a split sole or a non-split sole shoe. Split sole shoes have two pieces of rubber on the sole of the shoe, which tend to be a little more comfortable and provide better traction. It also makes the shoe more flexible as it is able to bend in the middle more. Non-split sole shoes have a single piece of rubber as the sole of the shoe, which provides for better stability and some will actually argue it has better traction.
Price
Wrestling shoes generally range in price from $30.00 up to $125.00. It is recommended that you purchase a more affordable style if you are new to the sport. If you are operating on a really tight budget, you may want to consider purchasing a used pair. You might even try to strike a deal on a used pair of shoes with one of your teammates.
A note to parents: if your child is new to the sport, we recommend that you save your money the first couple seasons before you go all out and get the best shoes on the market. Yes, shoes are some of the most important pieces of weapons in a wrestlers arsenal, but if they’re good, they’ll be able to function no matter what’s on their feet.
Some Key Points To Remember…
Your wrestling shoes must have a nice snug fit to them. Make sure that you have selected a pair that conforms to local rules and regulations. Many areas now say that the laces of shoes must be covered. It is easy to find a pair of shoes that covers the laces, or by a cover for them; or you can simply wrap athletic tape around them. Be aware of what the regulations are in your area before you make the purchase.
