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The Key Differences Between Boxing Shoes vs. Wrestling Shoes

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What You Need to Know About Boxing Shoes vs. Wrestling Shoes

Boxing and wrestling are on opposite ends of the martial arts spectrum. Boxing is a striking combat sport, while wrestling is a grappling art. Despite this, it’s not unheard of for practitioners in either discipline to use the shoes of the other. As a result, you may wonder what the key differences are between boxing shoes vs. wrestling shoes. Keep reading to find out. 

Boxing Shoes

Whether you’re an aspiring pro boxer or simply a hobbyist, the proper boxing shoes will help support your training regime. Here’s how boxing shoes and wrestling shoes differ in design, comfort, and functionality while training or sparring. 

Ankle Support

Boxing is performed upright; the only time a boxer will be on the ground is if he trips or gets knocked out. For this reason, boxing boots offer a high-cut design that provides stability and ample ankle support. Other benefits of this high-top style include:


  • Reduces ankle rolls 
  • Lower risk of injuries
  • Throw cleaner punches
  • More efficient dodging mechanics

Outsole Grip

Boxing shoes typically use a quarter to half-inch flat rubber outsole that offers sufficient gripping texture. This outsole grip gives you support for lateral front and back movements. The shoe also provides cushioning for the demands of the sport. So, manufacturers produce boxing shoes with ample cushion support to accommodate padded ring and bag work training

Wrestling Shoes

The right-fitting wrestling shoes give wrestlers a competitive edge. Proper footwear in this martial art (like boxing) can be a make-or-break difference. Wrestling shoes are designed to stabilize foot mechanics and improve performance by protecting feet and ankles. Let’s take a look at a few wrestling shoe details and how they compare to boxing shoes. 

Ankle Support

Wrestling is a grappling martial art, which means you’ll be on the ground a lot, covering steep angles. As a result, you need sufficient grip and traction. Wrestling shoes provide ample ankle support but aren’t as high-cut as boxing shoes. That’s simply due to the differences in how the two sports are performed. Again, boxing is upright, while wrestling is based on the ground. 


Other benefits of wrestling shoes include:


  • Added comfort 
  • Stronger traction on sweaty mats
  • Protects your feet
  • Prevents rolls, sprains, and other injuries

Outsole Grip

One key difference you’ll notice with wrestling shoes is their more aggressive outsole grip design. Practitioners work deep angles on the sides and balls of their feet using leverage and power to gain dominant positions. As a result, the outsole grip of wrestling shoes requires much more traction than boxing shoes. 

Conclusion

Boxing shoes and wrestling shoes are essential fighting equipment for their respective disciplines. Each shoe has its unique set of features designed specifically for its sport. For this reason, it’s critical to have the right shoes to get the most out of your performance. And the best part? We at Fight Co can help.


For over a decade, we’ve been selling products from top brands. We have the largest range of martial arts clothing and fight equipment so you can find everything in one online store. So, if you’re ready to take your training to the next level, view our martial arts training equipment today.

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