Wearing socks with wrestling shoes is a common question among wrestlers. Not like other martial arts (BJJ,MMA), It is mandatory to wear shoes in wrestling tournaments. On the one hand, socks can provide added support and protection for the feet and ankles.
On the other hand, some wrestlers prefer to wear shoes without socks or may be concerned about added weight or reduced ventilation.
In this article, I will explore the potential benefits and risks of wearing socks with wrestling shoes and the factors to consider when deciding whether to wear them in a wrestling match or not. I will also share some tips for wrestlers who choose to wear socks and explore alternative options for wearing wrestling shoes without socks.
How many pairs of wrestling shoes and socks you as a starter
As a starter, it is a good idea to have at least two pairs of wrestling shoes and several pairs of socks. This will allow you to have a spare pair of shoes and socks in case one pair gets dirty or wet, and it will also give you the option to wear a fresh pair if you have multiple wrestling matches in one day.
It’s always a good idea to have a few extra pairs of socks on hand, as they can get sweaty and need to be changed frequently. In general, it’s better to have more than not enough, especially when it comes to shoes and socks for wrestling.
Benefits of wearing socks with wrestling shoes
Cushioning and support:
Socks can provide added cushioning and support for the feet and ankles, which can be especially important for wrestlers who are prone to foot or ankle injuries or who are participating in long or intense practices or matches. Choose split sole shoes which are more flexible to wear and provide great ankle support.
Moisture-wicking:
Socks can help wick moisture away from the skin, which can prevent blisters and other foot irritation.
Protection:
Socks can add an extra layer of protection between the skin and the wrestling shoes, which can help to reduce the risk of foot infections and other skin irritation.
Comfort:
Some wrestlers may find that socks provide added comfort and a more secure fit in their wrestling shoes.
Customization:
Wearing socks with wrestling shoes allows wrestlers to customize their footwear to suit their personal preferences and needs.
Risks of not wearing socks with wrestling shoes
There are several potential risks to consider when deciding whether to wear socks with wrestling shoes:
Increased risk of blisters and foot irritation:
Without the added cushioning and moisture-wicking provided by socks, the skin on the feet is more vulnerable to rubbing and chafing. This can lead to blisters and other foot irritation, especially during long or intense practices or matches. So try to avoid wearing ankle socks with your shoe.
Increased risk of foot infections:
Without the added protection of socks, the skin on the feet is more exposed to bacteria and other contaminants in the wrestling shoes. This can increase the risk of foot infections and other skin irritation.
Reduced ventilation:
Some wrestlers may be concerned about the added weight or reduced ventilation that comes with wearing socks with wrestling shoes. While this is a valid concern, there are many lightweight and breathable sock options available that can help to address these issues.
Personal preference:
Some wrestlers simply may not like the feel of wearing socks with their wrestling shoes and may prefer the feel of bare feet in their shoes. This is a matter of personal preference, and wrestlers should choose what feels most comfortable for them.
5 Tips for wearing socks with wrestling shoes
- It’s important to choose socks that fit properly. Socks that are too small can be constricting and uncomfortable, while socks that are too large can bunch up and cause blisters.
- To keep your feet dry and comfortable, consider using foot powder or other blister-prevention products. These products can help to reduce moisture and friction on the skin, which can help to prevent blisters and other foot irritation.
- There are many different types of socks available for wrestling shoes, including socks that are designed for specific purposes (such as moisture-wicking or extra cushioning). Try out a few different types to find the best fit and feel for your wrestling shoes or flip-flops.
- Some wrestling shoes are more breathable or have more padding than others, which can affect the need for socks. Consider the type of wrestling shoes you use when deciding whether to wear socks and choose socks that complement your shoes.
- To keep your feet feeling fresh and comfortable, be sure to replace your socks regularly. Wearing worn-out or dirty socks can increase the risk of foot irritation and infections.
Alternatives to wearing socks with wrestling shoes:
Foot liners or insoles:
Foot liners or insoles can provide some benefits of socks (such as cushioning and moisture-wicking) without the added weight or bulk. These products can be inserted into the wrestling shoes and help reduce friction and moisture on the skin.
Bare feet:
Some wrestlers may prefer to wear their wrestling shoes without socks at all. While this option may not provide the same level of cushioning and protection as socks, it can be a good choice for wrestlers who prefer the feel of bare feet in their shoes.
It’s important to note that each wrestler’s needs and preferences are different, and what works best for one person may not work as well for another. So choose your wrestling gear wisely. It’s a good idea to try out the different sock and wrestling shoe combinations to find what works best for you. Remember socks are essential like knee pads, mouth guard, shoes etc.
Final verdict
The decision of whether to wear socks with wrestling shoes comes down to what feels most comfortable and effective for each individual wrestler. Selecting the right shoe for the right pair also plays a vital role in this case. Whether you decide to wear socks or go sockless, it’s important to make an informed decision based on your own needs and preferences.
