Wrestling is the world's oldest sport. Evidence of wrestling can be traced all the way back to ancient Egyptian times. The first Olympic wrestling match was recorded in 708 BC. The earliest form of wrestling proved to be a violent contest between two combatants. But much of the brutality was eliminated as the Romans introduced a less violent version of the sport. Wrestling remained popular throughout the Middle Ages in countries such as England, France, and Japan.

Wrestling continued to increase in popularity as it found its way to America

by way of the early colonists. The sport was also quite popular among Native Americans. The “catch-as-catch-can“ style finally developed into the modern form of collegiate wrestling today.

The first national wrestling tournament took place in New York City in 1988. The first modern day Olympic Wrestling Match was held in 1904 in Saint Louis, Missouri. The first NCAA Wrestling Championships were held in 1912 in Ames, Iowa.

Some Important Considerations When Purchasing Wrestling Shoes

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. Keep in mind that your new wrestling shoes will probably stretch somewhat after a few practices. Remember, the fit should be fairly snug.

Brand Selection

When shopping for wrestling shoes, you can rely on “battle tested brands" such as Asics, Nike, Adidas, Infinity, and Brute. You can purchase these popular brand name shoes online or at typical “brick and mortar" stores. 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.

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 tend to be a little more comfortable and provide 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. The Internet is also a good place to locate and purchase used wrestling equipment.

Some Key Points To Remember…

Your wrestling shoes must have a nice snug fit to them. Make sure that you have selected a pair, which features a strong sole and high ankle support.