Having the right gear is key to staying safe, comfortable, and confident on the mat. Thankfully, wrestling doesn’t require much to get started—just a few essential items to set you up for success:

• Wrestling Shoes – Lightweight and durable, these shoes are designed to provide the grip and flexibility needed for quick movements and stability.
• Singlet – A form-fitting, one-piece uniform worn during competitions. It allows freedom of movement and meets official match requirements. (There are styles specific for girls.)
• Headgear – Crucial for protecting the ears and helping prevent cauliflower ear, especially during intense matches or frequent training.
• Mouthguard – While optional, a mouthguard adds an extra layer of protection and is recommended, particularly for athletes with braces.
• Practice Gear – Compression shirts, athletic/compression shorts, and knee pads are great for daily training. They offer comfort, support, and protection.

Choosing the Right Sports Bra for Wrestling

A well-fitting sports bra is an essential part of a female wrestler’s gear. It supports performance, comfort, and confidence during both practice and competition. Here’s what to look for:

1. Supportive, Not Restrictive - Choose a bra that minimizes movement without restricting breathing or putting strain on your shoulders. It should offer firm support while still allowing full range of motion and comfort during intense activity.
2. Full Coverage - Look for a bra that provides solid coverage to avoid accidental exposure during matches—especially when singlets shift or ride low. The right coverage helps you focus on your performance, not adjusting your gear.
3. No Plastic, Metal, or Lace - Avoid bras with plastic clips, metal hooks, or ties, as they can come loose, cause injury, or disqualify you from competition. Stick to smooth, durable fabrics without lace or decorative elements.

*TIP Try before you buy. When shopping, test the bra by moving like you would on the mat—jump, do jumping jacks, run, and hit your wrestling stance. Wrestling is fast-paced and unpredictable, so the right bra should stay secure and supportive through it all.

One of the keys to success on the mat is making sure your hair is secure and out of your face. This helps you stay focused, keeps you safe, and ensures you follow wrestling rules.

Recommended Wrestling Hairstyles:

• Braids
• Two Dutch Braids: Two Dutch braids are easy to do, keep hair tightly secured, and stay in place during even the toughest matches.
• Half Braids with a Half Ponytail: This style is great for medium-length hair. Braid the top section and secure the rest in a ponytail—braiding the ponytail itself adds extra security.
• Cornrow Braids: The ultimate for keeping all hair out of your face. Cornrows take more time and may need gel to stay neat, but they’re super secure.
• Ponytails
• Tight Ponytails with Extra Hair Ties: A simple, quick option. Use multiple hair ties to make sure it stays put. For longer hair, wrap the ponytail into a bun for extra control.
• Braided Ponytail: If your hair is long, braid the ponytail to keep it from swinging around or getting in the way.
• Hair Covers: If you choose to use a hair cover, it must be made of solid, non-abrasive material and securely attached to your headgear. (Bandanas are not allowed.) Hair covers are optional, but if you use one, it must meet the official requirements.

General Hair Tips:

• Use Secure Hair Ties: Choose strong, soft hair ties that won’t break or slip out. Avoid clips, pins, or anything hard—these aren’t allowed in matches.
• Practice Your Style: Try different hairstyles during practice to see what works best for your hair type and how long it takes to do.
• Consider Your Hair Type: Pick a style that matches your hair’s length and texture.
• Use Hair Products: Gel or similar products can help keep your style neat and prevent loose strands.
• Bring Extras: Always keep extra hair ties in your bag—just in case! No hard or metal hair accessories are allowed.

Questions? Need a demo?

**Always check with your coach if you’re unsure about a hairstyle or accessory.

**Ask your coach or a teammate for help with braiding or securing your hair. We want everyone to feel confident and comfortable on the mat!

Let’s keep our hair game strong and our focus on wrestling!