10 Items to Pack for a Wrestling Match

Pack your wrestling bag the night before: singlet, wrestling shoes, headgear, warm-ups, mouthguard (if needed), spare laces and tape, water, healthy snacks, a towel, and any skin or medical forms.

The 10 essentials

ItemWhy
SingletRequired uniform
Wrestling shoesTraction and ankle support
HeadgearRequired ear protection
Warm-upsStay warm between bouts
MouthguardRequired with braces; recommended otherwise
Spare laces and tapeShoes must be taped or secured in some codes
WaterHydration
Healthy snacksEnergy between matches
TowelSweat and hygiene
Medical or skin formsNeeded for skin checks

Packing tips

  • Use a checklist every time.
  • Keep shoes in a separate bag.
  • Pack a spare singlet for long tournaments.
  • Bring a phone charger for bracket apps.
  • Label everything.

Frequently asked questions

Do shoelaces need to be taped?

Many rulebooks require laces to be secured with tape or a lace keeper.

Is a mouthguard required?

Wrestlers with braces are generally required to wear one.

What snacks are best?

Fruit, sandwiches, pretzels and granola bars.

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Sam Ayed
Sam Ayed

Sam Ayed is a soccer player, coach and lifelong sports enthusiast. As the editor of Sportmentary, he writes and reviews the site's guides, checks rules content against the official rulebooks of each sport's governing body, and keeps pages updated when those rules change.

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