Does your young athlete dream of pinning their opponents and hearing the roar of the crowd? Wrestling is an amazing sport that builds strength, discipline, and confidence. But before they step onto the mat, they need the right gear. And when it comes to wrestling shoes for kids, choosing the perfect pair can feel like a real challenge.
There are so many brands, styles, and features to consider! It’s tough to know which ones offer the best support, grip, and comfort for growing feet. You want shoes that will help your child perform their best without causing blisters or discomfort. Getting it wrong can lead to frustration and even injuries, taking the fun out of the sport.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down everything you need to know about wrestling shoes for youth. You’ll discover what makes a great wrestling shoe, learn about the key features to look for, and get tips on finding the perfect fit. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing shoes that will support your young wrestler’s journey on the mat.
Our Top 5 Wrestling Shoes For Youth Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Wrestling Shoes For Youth Detailed Reviews
1. adidas Boy’s HVC Wrestling Shoe
Rating: 8.5/10
The adidas Boy’s HVC Wrestling Shoe in Black/Charcoal/Metallic Gold is built for young wrestlers. It helps them stay focused on the mat. This shoe offers a great combination of features to support their performance.
What We Like:
- LIGHTWEIGHT DURABILITY: These shoes won’t weigh down a young athlete. They are built to last through tough training sessions.
- CONSISTENT MAT CONTACT AND SUPERIOR GRIP: The design helps wrestlers maintain solid footing. This means they can move with confidence and power.
- BREATHABLE AND DURABLE single-layer mesh: The mesh material keeps feet cool and comfortable. It also holds up well to the demands of wrestling.
- ELASTICIZED LACE RETENTION COVER SYSTEM: This feature keeps laces securely tucked away. It prevents them from coming undone during a match.
What Could Be Improved:
- Fit: Some young wrestlers might find the fit a bit snug. It’s always a good idea to try them on if possible.
- Color Options: While the black, charcoal, and gold is stylish, more color choices could appeal to a wider range of preferences.
Overall, the adidas Boy’s HVC Wrestling Shoe is a strong contender for young wrestlers. It provides the support and grip needed for success on the mat.
2. ASICS Kid’s Matflex 7 Grade School Wrestling Shoes
Rating: 9.3/10
The ASICS Kid’s Matflex 7 Grade School Wrestling Shoes in Black/White, size 3.5, are built for young wrestlers. These shoes offer comfort and support on the mat. They feature a special sockliner that helps the environment, making them a smart choice for parents and young athletes.
What We Like:
- The E.V.A sockliner provides cushioning for comfort during long practices and matches.
- A mesh insole is included to keep feet cool and dry by improving ventilation.
- The solution dye sockliner is a great eco-friendly feature that significantly reduces water usage and carbon emissions.
- These shoes are designed to give young wrestlers good grip and stability on the wrestling mat.
- The black and white color scheme is classic and looks great.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the focus is on performance, some kids might prefer more vibrant color options.
- Durability over multiple seasons of intense training could be something to watch.
Overall, the ASICS Kid’s Matflex 7 Grade School Wrestling Shoes are a solid option for young wrestlers. They combine essential performance features with a commitment to sustainability.
3. Sisttke Kid’s Wrestling Shoes Youth Boxing Shoes Mid Top Sneakers Black
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to dominate the mat with the Sisttke Kid’s Wrestling Shoes Youth Boxing Shoes Mid Top Sneakers in Black! These shoes are built for young athletes who demand performance and comfort. They are designed to help you move quickly and stay in control during any match. This wrestling shoe is a must-have for wrestling professionals from all backgrounds.
What We Like:
- Zero drop design helps kids feel more connected to the ground.
- Wide width sole gives young feet plenty of room to spread out.
- Lightweight feel means less drag and more speed.
- Minimal style looks cool and keeps things simple.
- Made with strong **stitch down overlays and microfiber leather** for durability.
- **Mesh panels** let your feet breathe and stay cool during intense matches.
- The **thin and firm sole** gives great feedback from the mat.
- A **shoelace garage** keeps laces tucked away and prevents them from coming untied.
- The **rubber sole** is **anti-skid** and **wear-resistant** for long-lasting use.
- A **unique pattern** on the sole provides excellent flexibility and traction.
What Could Be Improved:
- The mid-top design might not offer enough ankle support for some styles of wrestling.
- More color options could appeal to a wider range of young athletes.
These Sisttke sneakers offer a fantastic combination of support and ground feel. They are a solid choice for any young wrestler looking to improve their game.
4. ASICS Kid’s Snapdown 4 Grade School Wrestling Shoes
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to dominate the mat with the ASICS Kid’s Snapdown 4 Grade School Wrestling Shoes in Glacier Grey/Lime Burst! These shoes are built for young wrestlers who need speed and stability. They offer a cool look and the performance to back it up.
What We Like:
- Breathable Design: The shoes have stitch-down overlays and mesh underlays. This keeps feet cool and comfortable during intense matches.
- Secure Fit: A special wrapped design on both sides of the shoe hugs the foot. This helps prevent slips and provides extra support.
- Great Traction: The outsole is made to grip the wrestling mat. This means kids can move quickly and confidently without sliding.
- Eye-Catching Style: The Glacier Grey with Lime Burst accents looks sharp and stylish.
What Could Be Improved:
- Durability for Heavy Use: While generally well-made, some reviewers noted that extreme daily use might show wear faster than expected.
- Sizing Nuances: It’s always a good idea to check the sizing chart carefully, as some kids find they run a little snug.
These ASICS Snapdown 4 wrestling shoes offer a fantastic blend of comfort, support, and grip for young athletes. They are a solid choice for any aspiring wrestler looking to step up their game.
5. ASICS Men’s Matflex 7 Wrestling Shoes
Rating: 9.0/10
Step onto the mat with confidence in the ASICS Men’s Matflex 7 Wrestling Shoes. These shoes, in classic Black/White and a size 6.5, are designed to support your every move. They offer a snug fit to help you feel connected to the mat, which is crucial for quick changes in direction and powerful takedowns. The materials used are focused on both performance and a more sustainable manufacturing process.
What We Like:
- Breathable mesh underlays keep your feet cool and comfortable during intense matches.
- Supportive overlays provide extra stability, helping you maintain balance during various wrestling maneuvers.
- The E.V.A sockliner offers great cushioning, making the shoes feel comfortable underfoot.
- The solution dye sockliner is a cool feature that helps save water and reduce carbon emissions during production.
What Could Be Improved:
- Fit Note: These shoes might feel narrow for some athletes. If you need a wider fit, you’ll want to consider the SNAPDOWN 4 WIDE shoe instead.
Overall, the ASICS Matflex 7 wrestling shoes are a solid option for wrestlers looking for support and comfort. Just be sure to check the fit if you have wider feet.
Choosing the Best Wrestling Shoes for Young Athletes
Getting the right wrestling shoes for your young champion makes a big difference on the mat. These shoes help them move fast, grip well, and stay safe. This guide will help you pick the perfect pair.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
1. Excellent Grip
Wrestling is all about staying on your feet. Shoes with good grip have special rubber soles that stick to the mat. This helps your child make quick moves and avoid slipping. Look for soles with patterns or grooves that offer extra traction.
2. Ankle Support
Young wrestlers need strong ankle support. Shoes with high tops or snug ankle collars help protect against sprains and twists. This support gives them confidence to try new moves.
3. Lightweight Design
Heavy shoes slow a wrestler down. Lightweight shoes let your child move freely and quickly. They feel less tired, which means they can focus more on the match.
4. Breathable Materials
Wrestling is a sweaty sport! Shoes made with breathable materials, like mesh, allow air to flow. This keeps feet cool and dry, preventing discomfort and blisters.
5. Secure Fit
The shoes should fit snugly but not too tight. A good fit means the shoes won’t slip off during a match. Look for shoes with laces that tie securely or straps that offer extra hold.
Important Materials
The materials used in wrestling shoes affect their performance and how long they last.
1. Rubber Soles
Rubber is the best material for shoe soles because it provides excellent grip. Different types of rubber offer varying levels of stickiness and durability. High-quality rubber grips the mat without being too sticky.
2. Synthetic Leather and Mesh Uppers
Many youth wrestling shoes use a mix of synthetic leather and mesh. Synthetic leather offers durability and support, while mesh provides breathability. This combination keeps feet comfortable and the shoes strong.
3. Padded Collars and Tongues
Padding around the ankle and on the tongue adds comfort and protection. It helps cushion the foot and prevents irritation from rubbing.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make wrestling shoes better, while others can make them worse.
What Makes Them Better:
- Strong Stitching: Well-made shoes have strong stitching that holds the parts together. This makes the shoes last longer.
- Flexible Soles: Soles that can bend easily help wrestlers move their feet naturally.
- Reinforced Areas: Areas that get a lot of wear, like the toe and heel, are often reinforced to make them tougher.
What Makes Them Worse:
- Cheap Glue: If shoes are held together with weak glue, they can fall apart quickly.
- Stiff Materials: Stiff shoes are uncomfortable and make it hard to move.
- Poor Ventilation: Shoes that don’t let air in can make feet sweaty and uncomfortable.
User Experience and Use Cases
Parents and young wrestlers often share their experiences.
What Users Say:
Many parents report that their children feel more confident and stable when wearing good wrestling shoes. They notice improved performance and fewer slips during practice and matches. Kids often like shoes that look cool, but they also appreciate when their feet don’t hurt after a long session.
When to Use Them:
Wrestling shoes are designed specifically for wrestling. They are perfect for:
- Wrestling Practice: They provide the grip and support needed for drills.
- Wrestling Matches: They are essential for competition to ensure safety and optimal performance.
- Grappling Sports: Some wrestlers also use them for other grappling sports where mat traction is important.
Avoid using wrestling shoes for running or other sports, as this can wear down the special grip and damage the shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How should youth wrestling shoes fit?
A1: Youth wrestling shoes should fit snugly, like a glove, with no extra room. Your child’s toes should be close to the end, but not crammed. There should be no slipping when they walk or move their feet inside the shoe.
Q2: Can my child wear regular sneakers for wrestling?
A2: No, regular sneakers are not suitable for wrestling. They do not offer the same grip, ankle support, or flexibility needed for the sport. Using the wrong shoes can lead to injuries.
Q3: How do I clean wrestling shoes?
A3: You can clean wrestling shoes with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid putting them in the washing machine, as this can damage the materials and glue. Always let them air dry completely.
Q4: What is the best age to buy wrestling shoes?
A4: It’s best to buy wrestling shoes when a child starts participating in organized wrestling, usually around ages 5-7, depending on the program’s requirements.
Q5: How long do youth wrestling shoes typically last?
A5: The lifespan of wrestling shoes depends on how often they are used and the quality of the shoes. With regular use, they might last one to two wrestling seasons.
Q6: Should I buy wrestling shoes a size larger?
A6: It is generally not recommended to buy wrestling shoes a size larger. A proper, snug fit is crucial for performance and safety. If the shoes are too big, they will not provide adequate support and can cause the foot to slide inside, leading to blisters or injuries.
Q7: What is the difference between wrestling shoes and boxing shoes?
A7: While both are designed for combat sports, wrestling shoes have flatter, stickier soles for mat grip and often higher ankle support. Boxing shoes are typically lighter, have thinner soles, and offer more ankle flexibility for footwork.
Q8: Are there specific brands that are better for youth wrestling shoes?
A8: Several reputable brands like Adidas, Nike, and Asics make excellent youth wrestling shoes. It’s often more about finding the specific model that fits your child’s foot shape and wrestling style well.
Q9: How important is the sole pattern on wrestling shoes?
A9: The sole pattern is very important. It’s designed to maximize grip on the wrestling mat, allowing for quick pivots, stops, and starts. Patterns with different textures and grooves enhance traction.
Q10: Can my child wear wrestling shoes for other sports?
A10: It’s best to only wear wrestling shoes for wrestling. Their unique sole design is optimized for the mat and can wear out quickly on other surfaces. Using them for other sports can also reduce their grip for wrestling.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
David Ruperto is a Footwear Engineer with expertise in 3D printing, design, and pattern making. With a background in Fine Arts from CUNY and training from SLEM and Cordwainer’s Savannah, he blends creativity with innovation. Based in New York, he shares his knowledge on BestForShoes.com, helping others explore the world of footwear.