NEW WRESTLERS: THE FOUNDATION OF WRESTLING

Wrestling is more than a sport. It is a vehicle for transformation. It sharpens the mind, strengthens the heart, and reveals the depth of a person’s character. The skills learned on the mat become the foundations of life off the mat. A new wrestler does not just learn moves. They learn who they are, who they can become, and what it takes to grow.

COURAGE

Every wrestler begins with courage. Starting is never easy. Wrestling is demanding, and in the beginning, it can even feel intimidating. Stepping onto the mat means facing the unknown and choosing to grow through challenge. The greater the challenge, the more courage it requires, and the more courage it builds.

HEART

Once the journey begins, the heart is tested. Wrestling exposes desire and reveals how deeply you are willing to push. It takes heart to fight through adversity. The heart of a wrestler becomes the engine of their growth. Take heart and rise to every challenge placed in front of you.

DETERMINATION

Some days, the hardest thing you will ever do is keep wrestling. Progress is not always obvious. Breakthroughs come after long stretches of struggle. Determination is the ability to stay committed when it feels slow, frustrating, or heavy. Keep showing up. Keep moving. Every moment builds the next.

BELIEF

Wrestlers learn to believe long before they win. They trust that the work will pay off. That belief becomes belief in themselves. The harder you work, the more you want it. The more you want it, the harder you work. Every step onto the mat is an act of belief and faith. And the byproduct is a deep-rooted confidence that lasts a lifetime.

WRESTLING SHOES

Wrestling shoes are special, and each serves a different purpose. They’re light, comfortable, and designed to grip the mat at every angle. For your first year, the most important thing is finding a shoe that fits comfortably and makes you feel confident when you step on the mat. Finding your preference comes with time and experience; don’t stress this step. 

Recommended:

Unisex: Colt 4.0, JB1, Courage
Lightweight, breathable, priced right, and available in a wide range of colors for both boys and girls.

  • JB1 was designed with 7x World Medalist Jordan Burroughs, made to work for every level, from a first-year wrestler to an elite athlete.

Female-Specific: Hildebrandt
Our first women’s-specific wrestling shoe, anatomically built based on feedback from Olympic Medalist Sarah Hildebrandt. Made to fit and support the unique structure of the female foot.

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HEADGEAR

Protection is important. Wearing headgear not only protects the head from minor hits and snaps, but also protects the ears from bruising, abrasions, and potential cauliflower ear. Wearing good-fitting headgear is key to keeping your ears in great shape. 

Recommended:

  • Elite Headgear – Ideal for beginners.

  • RUDIS Airflow Headgear – Our most advanced model, designed to reduce heat, minimize sweat, and improve hearing during practice and competition.

SOCKS

Wearing the right socks not only provides you with a layer of comfort and protection but can also give you an extra boost of confidence. From low-cut socks for training, multi-pack crew socks for practice, or vibrant 2-packs for matches, there’s a sock for every occasion. 

Recommended:

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SHIRTS & SHORTS

Comfort is key. Showing up to practice ready to go in comfortable, athletic clothes will keep you feeling good from start to end of practice. It’s recommended to wear a shirt and shorts, but sometimes sweatpants can help add a layer of warmth and protection. 

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WRESTLING SHOE COVERS

Wrestling shoes are meant for the mat, and the mat only. They don’t belong in the street, the grass, or especially not in the mud. Wrestling Shoe Covers give your wrestling shoes a second layer of protection and hygiene. Whether it’s walking into practice, stepping off the mat for a drink, or walking around a tournament, sole covers are made for off the mat. 

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BACKPACK

When it comes to storing your gear, there’s a bag for every scenario. Whether you’re heading to a weekend-long tournament or a quick practice, keeping your gear together and safe is important. 

Recommended:

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This is what a new wrestler needs. Not perfection. Not talent. Just the courage to begin, the heart to continue, the determination to endure, and the belief that each day on the mat is shaping a stronger, wiser, more complete version of themselves.

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