Best Wrestling Shoes for Deadlifting in Competition

I am looking for the best wrestling shoes for deadlifting in competition. I have an upcoming meet in Calgary and I want a shoe that is incredibly thin but provides good ankle support. I have seen a lot of the top guys using Asics or Adidas wrestling shoes for their pulls.

I like that they are usually much cheaper than dedicated deadlift shoes but still offer that flat sole and great grip. My main concern is that the sole might be too narrow for a sumo stance. I do not want my foot to roll over the edge of the shoe when I am pulling five hundred pounds.

Which wrestling models do you all recommend? I am looking for something that is durable and meets the IPF requirements. If you have a specific pair that has lasted you through multiple seasons of competing please let me know. I am ready to get that new personal record!

For deadlifting, most people are looking for minimal stack height and a flat, stable sole. Wrestling shoes fit that bill perfectly. The Adidas HVC 2 or Mat Wizard are solid, affordable choices. They're thin but the ankle support is usually decent for lifting.

I've always used ASICS Aggressors. They're super grippy and feel like socks but with just enough support. Been using the same pair for years now, they hold up great.

StrongmanScott, if you want *incredibly thin*, have you considered just going socks? Some federations allow it, and you literally can't get thinner.

I use the Nike Speedsweep VII. They're pretty good, not too bulky but still give that locked-in feel around the ankle. Price point is decent too.

Anyone tried the Rudis Colt 2.0s? Heard good things about their grip and how low they are.

For competitions, you gotta make sure whatever you pick is allowed by your federation's rules. Some are stricter about shoe type than others.

StrongmanScott, are you pulling conventional or sumo? That might influence shoe choice slightly, though less so than with squat shoes.

I found the Nike Tawas to be excellent. Minimal sole, great traction, and the higher cut gives that extra bit of confidence for ankle stability. Definitely worth a look.

I've seen a few guys at my gym just use Converse Chuck Taylors. Not wrestling shoes, but they're super flat and stable. Ankle support isn't as good though.

I'm a big fan of the Sabo Deadlift shoes. Not wrestling shoes, but designed specifically for deads. They're basically flat with a very grippy sole and good ankle strap.

I've had my Adidas Adizero Varner 2s for years. Super light, thin, and the grip is insane. They're a bit pricey but worth every penny for a comp shoe.

If you struggle with ankle mobility, make sure whatever shoe you get doesn't restrict it further. A higher cut can sometimes be counterproductive if your ankles are stiff.

I've heard good things about the Venum Giant wrestling shoes too. Anyone have experience with those for deadlifts?

Don't overthink it. Any flat-soled wrestling shoe will do the job. Pick one that's comfortable and fits your budget. The difference between top-tier and mid-tier is marginal for deadlifts.

I just wear my old beat-up Vans. Super flat, good sole. No ankle support, but I like the freedom. It's really personal preference.

I prefer the wrestling shoes that have a bit more padding around the ankle, like some of the older Asics models. Gives me a psychological edge, feeling more 'protected'.

Has anyone actually measured the stack height difference between popular wrestling shoes? I'm curious if the 'thinnest' ones are significantly different.

Think about how much movement you get in your feet when deadlifting. You want something that allows natural spread and grip without letting your foot slide around.

Ultimately, the best shoe is the one you feel most confident and stable in. Try a few on if you can, even if it's just at a sports store. Feel trumps spec sheet sometimes.