Martial arts will require a novice athlete to buy special clothing and equipment, shoes are no exception. The latter is also called wrestling shoes. Further success and advancement in the chosen field depends on the correct choice of equipment. A mistake will lead to the fact that it will hamper movement during classes and may even lead to injury. While a high-quality and comfortable form will allow you to forget about your existence, and immerse yourself in training.
The type of sport practiced dictates its own requirements for footwear. Wrestling shoes are used by athletes for martial arts and sambo. Soft sports shoes will protect your feet from possible injuries and withstand significant loads.
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Why are wrestling shoes better than sneakers?
Every novice athlete is faced with a dilemma: is there a need for special shoes, or just use the usual sneakers. Wrestling shoes have undeniable advantages over sneakers.
- Material. For the manufacture of narrow-profile footwear, high-quality, durable and environmentally friendly material is used. They are: genuine leather, polyester, suede, nylon and mesh. The latter is the best option for those who suffer from profuse sweating. Wrestling shoes made of this material provide maximum air access to the feet. Expensive models are made of genuine leather. It should be soft and pleasant to the touch.
- Protection. High-quality wrestling shoes protect the ankle and toes from various kinds of injuries. To do this, the overwhelming number of manufacturers add protectors to the design in the area of the toes, bones and other vulnerable parts of the leg. This reduces the risk of injury while exercising. This insert is almost invisible in the sock.
- Sole. In wrestling shoes, it is created taking into account possible loads on the material. The outsole is usually made from rubber, rubber, polyurethane and mixtures thereof. The thickness and weight of the sole is influenced by the type of combat practiced. For example, for freestyle wrestling and sambo, the best option is a thin and lightweight rubber sole, for good grip and mobility of the fighter. Heavyweights are advised to turn their attention to a massive cast sole that can withstand heavy loads. Junior wrestling shoes provide maximum comfort and convenience for a young athlete, since the load is significantly reduced in comparison with adults, and the correct fit of the leg comes first to ensure trouble-free blood circulation.
- Surface grip. One of the many important factors that determine the choice. The outsole has a tread pattern that depends on the purpose and affects the level of grip in the ring.
- Softness. One of the most overlooked parameters. Professional athletes recommend carefully measuring shoes before purchasing. If you buy in an online store, then pay attention to models from materials that have already been worn before. Well-known brands supply certificates with the product, which describe the actual parameters. Leather has the highest softness, but inferior to all available materials in terms of durability.Technological progress to create synthetic substitutes in no way inferior in softness and having high indicators of strength during operation.
- Lacing. It must be strong and reliable, otherwise sprains and fractures of the ankles cannot be avoided. The lacing made of modified synthetics has proven itself positively. It forms a strong knot that will not break. Special attention is paid to the length of the laces; when tied, the ends do not protrude beyond the shoe. Otherwise, injury cannot be avoided.
What are they?
Martial arts shoes are divided according to the type of sports discipline. Each of them requires a certain modification, depending on the purpose and class (amateur, professional).
- Freestyle wrestling. An active and mobile type of martial arts that requires, first of all, the ability to withstand heavy loads from shoes. For the manufacture of the outsole, materials must be used that contribute to a strong grip with the base, while the base is soft and flexible. Natural and synthetic leather is the best option that successfully copes with the task. Synthetic leather substitutes from renowned manufacturers are head and shoulders above natural material. This is due to the fact that the skin stretches over time and loses its presentable appearance.
- Greco-Roman wrestling. The main quality of such wrestling shoes is endurance. Throughout the lessons, the shoes must cope with all the maneuvers of the athlete.In this type of martial arts, not only the physical fitness of the participant is important, but also his endurance. To be successful it is important that the sole does not slip on the surface of the ring. A mixture of rubber and polyurethane is able to give the shoe the necessary stability. These wrestling shoes are characterized by a high heel counter to soften the force of the blow and make it possible to stand on their feet after applying it. Lacing, or fastener securely fixes the foot and avoids unnecessary injury.
- Hand-to-hand combat. Such a struggle will require high mobility from the practitioner. Lightweight wrestlers made of artificial or natural suede will cope with this task. By height, they are divided into low, high and medium. Which indicator to choose, this is influenced by the professionalism of the wrestler and personal preferences. Previous injuries also determine choice. It is difficult to say for whom a certain type of footwear is more suitable. The final decision is influenced by the experience and preference of the athlete. The main thing to remember: for high and medium wrestling shoes, there is a problem with air exchange, not the best lacing, but reliable leg protection.
- Sambo. Sambo shoes provide first-class protection of the ankle against dislocations and possible damage, the heel is soft and low for increased maneuverability. According to the requirements of the competition regulations, such shoes should not have any decorative elements other than laces. Otherwise, the opponent may suffer. The lacing is placed in the center and is fixed with a tongue on the leg. Combination is excluded. The outsole is made of lightweight material and has a special pattern applied to it to increase stability in the ring.
How do you know your exact size?
It is not uncommon for you to purchase wrestling shoes through an online store. Turning to them has many advantages, among which it should be noted such as the frequent price for a similar model is much lower than on the shelves in the city and the choice is much higher.
It is important to know your exact size when buying. Following simple instructions will allow you to find out the necessary parameters without much difficulty:
- the foot is placed on a sheet of paper with full weight transfer to it;
- with a pencil (strictly perpendicular to the surface and as tightly as possible to the foot) the leg is traced. To obtain more accurate results, measurements are carried out for the second leg;
- measure the distance from the extreme point of the heel to the longest toe;
- the width of the foot is measured at the widest point;
- it will not be superfluous to warn the consultant about the features of the leg (if any).
How to choose the right wrestling shoes?
- The size.The most important parameter to pay attention to. In no case is it recommended to buy for growth. This can lead to negative consequences. The foot should fit snugly in such shoes. When purchasing from online stores, you should correctly measure your foot size.
- Material. Natural leather is not the best solution. It is soft and fits the leg well, but at the same time, such wrestling shoes will wear out in a short time. For those who are not eager to frequent stores, you should pay attention to high-quality synthetics. Such models retain their shape and original appearance during a long service life. The material is widely used by well-known brands.
- Protection. It reduces the risk of injury, absorbs impacts and promotes long-term wear. Models with this option exceed the cost of similar ones without it. But many professionals and experts claim it's worth it.
- Convenience and comfort. The results of training and further competitions depend on these qualities. If the wrestling shoes are pressing, rubbing, interfering, they will bring only injuries and disappointments in the future, since painful sensations reduce attentiveness and concentration.
- Sole. The corrugated pattern on it is the optimal solution for those who plan to practice indoors and outdoors. It promotes maximum adhesion to wood, earth and sand.
- Price. Shoe manufacturers produce luxury and budget models. Thanks to this, everyone has the opportunity to choose wrestling shoes according to their needs. Models of average cost are recommended for beginners, they are reliable, of high quality, and if martial arts do not come to taste, their acquisition will cause less regret.
- Colour. Today, designers are developing the latest colors, pleasing to the eye and capturing attention. It is possible to find wrestling shoes that have appeared in famous cartoons, cult films and comics. The main thing is that when choosing a color, quality does not suffer.
The best wrestlers for martial arts
Adidas HVC2
The model is aimed at beginners who are only mastering martial arts. Durable materials promote long-lasting wear. Lightweight and comfortable with a low rise, suitable for all combat sports. Lacing and Velcro for a secure fit. Mesh lining allows the foot to breathe.
Advantages:
- weight 200 g;
- one-piece sole with grooved pattern;
- low profile;
- anatomical cut.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Demix sambo
Wrestling shoes from the well-known brand Demix are suitable for daily martial arts practice for beginners and professionals. They have a breathable upper, thanks to synthetic nubuck and special mesh. The forefoot is additionally protected by a natural suede insert for greater safety.
Advantages:
- tight fit of the ankle;
- thanks to special grooves notches, the shoes can be easily bent to the required position;
- wear-resistant rubber leaves no marks on the surface.
Disadvantages:
- Velcro does not securely fix the leg;
- threads are observed in the places of piercing, which reduce the strength of the product;
- despite the mesh, the legs heat up quickly and are not ventilated.
Asics - Snapdown
The Japanese manufacturer has established itself as one of the best. She has professional footwear and accessories for football, running, tennis and other sports disciplines.
The new model is designed for amateur and professional wrestlers. Lightweight and comfortable footwear with secure grip. The upper is made of synthetic leather and breathable textile material. The one-piece outsole is made of flexible, durable rubber. The classic lacing system fixes the foot in the desired position. For the insole, the advanced technology of EVA foam material was used, which has additional damping properties and supports the foot.
Advantages:
- affordable price;
- anatomical shape;
- breathability;
- grippy flexible sole;
- stylish design;
- weight 204 g.
Disadvantages:
- inconsistency between the actual size and the size table;
- traces of glue are visible at the joints.
Green Hill Triumph
Wrestling shoes are developed in cooperation with professionals and Sambo coaches, and are approved by the International Sambo Federation FIAS. They have enhanced protection for the ankles and thumb joints. Due to the increased height in the lower leg area, maximum ankle fixation is achieved. Flexible genuine leather sole does not slip on the surface. The top of the model is made of natural velor and polyester. Due to this, they are not felt on the leg.
Advantages:
- anatomical structure;
- FIAS license serves as a universal admission to any competition;
- polyurethane insole.
Disadvantages:
- are distributed in only one color.
Asics JB Elite 3.0
The original JB Elite was released in honor of Jordan Burrows, multiple World Freestyle Wrestling Champion. More than one generation of new champions trained in these wrestling shoes. Flawless adhesion to the carpet will not leave anyone indifferent, as well as the unique appearance.
The upper is crafted from single layer mesh and TPU coated suede. This made it possible to obtain the model with impeccable ventilation properties and durability.
Advantages:
- outsole made of NC rubber based on rubber;
- high-quality and comfortable foot fixation;
- Flexibility thanks to Split Sole technology;
- versatility. Models are suitable not only for martial arts.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Asics Matflex 5 GS
Children's wrestling shoes are made of high quality materials that will last for a long time, and are in no way inferior to the adult models from the Matflex series.
Breathable mesh and synthetic leather used in the upper ensure maximum ventilation. The natural rubber outsole grips grip on any type of wrestling ground.
Advantages:
- block California;
- flexibility at a high level;
- well thought-out system of fasteners and velcro;
- little weight.
Disadvantages:
- not a common model;
- overcharge.
Nike Freek
Having seen the light in 2015, the model did not make a splash and excitement. Fame did not come to her immediately. It is considered one of the best training shoes today.
The upper part is equipped with a mesh for ventilation and keeping the temperature at an acceptable level. Additional synthetic and natural leather overlays provide the foot with support and additional stability. Symmetrical lacing with reinforced eyelets extends product life.
Advantages:
- Durable synthetic upper with high breathability
- lowered heel counter for maximum mobility;
- sole with a guide line for easier rolling of the foot;
- holes in the sole for ventilation and quick drying of the shoes before training.
Disadvantages:
- high price
Sabo Slay
Classic wrestling shoes designed for Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling. A good choice for training and competition. The soft design is comfortable to move and barely felt on the foot. The non-soiling rubber used for the outsole does not leave marks and, due to the pattern, does not slip on the surface of the carpet. According to the competition regulations, a special strap is used to protect the laces.
Advantages:
- anatomical block;
- for the top, a combination of genuine leather and synthetic materials;
- lace pocket;
- maximum durability is achieved thanks to the reinforced threads that sew the sole to the upper.
Disadvantages:
- only available in two colors.
Adidas Combat Speed 5
A budget model of a timeless classic. The novelty has received original design inserts and decoration in new colors.
The modernized design allows you to reach a new level of convenience and comfort.
Synthetic suede and polyester netting were used in the manufacture. Outsole type and material carried over from earlier models. The best solution for beginners and sports professionals.
Advantages:
- weight 204 g;
- Velcro used as a lace holder;
- ventilated top;
- the sole does not leave marks;
- versatility;
- affordable price;
- stylish design.
Disadvantages:
- insufficient adhesion to the surface.
The models presented above have proven themselves in international competitions and were recognized as one of the best champions. Convenience, comfort, safety - these and many other qualities, so necessary for achieving sports heights, they correspond. And without them it will be much more difficult to conquer the sports Olympus.