Wrestling doesn’t require any fancy or expensive equipment to get started. Most guys start with a pair of shorts and a t shirt and this works fine. Guys who have trained casually for several years or cross trained in multiple sports might never invest in wrestling gear however for those training regularly there are a few pieces of equipment which will provide benefit.
Clothing
For wrestling competition a singlet is worn. The wrestling singlet provides support and flexibility with assigned colours allowing competition officials to easily identify each competitor. When training in the gym there is no required uniform. As with all combat sports clothing should not contain zips or buttons for safety reasons. An alternative to training in a wrestling singlet is gym shorts or sweat pants along with a t shirt. Club kit is available for those wanting to represent the team!
Wrestling Boots
Wrestling boots are light and flexible providing additional traction against the canvas when training. For those who have trained barefoot the difference in grip is very notable when comparing the same movements wearing wrestling boots. Adults wrestling boots cost between £40 and £150 and you get what you pay for! A £40 pair of boots will suit someone training casually a couple times a week and last around a year. For those training on a more regular basis investing in a mid range boot will save money longer term.
Wrestling boots are often confused with boxing boots. Although the two items may look similar the difference is in the sole of the boot. Wrestling boots have a soft sole to provide greater flexibility the difference is noticeable when shooting for a leg attack or scrambling for top position following a takedown.
Ear Guards
Wresters are known for having cauliflower ears. This occurs after getting repeated blows to the ear. The impact of repeated takedowns in training and competition add to the chance of ear injury. To prevent cauliflower ear or prevent additional ear damage while training an ear guard can be worn. Ear guards cost around £30 and are a durable piece of kit. While training ear guards can become displaced during contact so it is important to purchase an ear guard which fits correctly to reduce displacement.
Gum Shield
A gum shield is recommended for anyone wanting to wrestle. An inexpensive piece of kit a gum shield protects your teeth, gums and tongue from accidental injury during training. A decent quality gum shield can be purchased for around £10 and most mould using a boil and bite method. Place the gum shield in a mug of boiling water, remove and allow too cool for a few seconds, bite down on the gum shield and mould accordingly.
Knee Pads
Knee pads can be used to reduce the impact of the wrestling mat on the knees. Over time the body become conditioned to the movements used in wrestling and the impact of repeated contact with the mat does not cause irritation. Beginners may see greater benefit from knee pads when learning techniques. As a person becomes more experienced movements become smoother and reduce impact on the knees due to higher quality technique.
Knee pads cost around £20 and will not need to be replaced often. When buying wrestling knee pads it is important to ensure they are a snug fit to prevent unwanted movement during training.