Choosing a Pair of Wrestling Kneepads

Wrestling kneepads protect your knees during shots, scrambles and bottom work. Choose a low-profile sleeve that fits snugly without sliding, has enough padding for practice, and is allowed in competition. Many wrestlers wear one on the lead knee.

Kneepad options

TypePros
Low-profile sleeveLight, flexible, competition-friendly
Padded sleeveMore protection for practice
Knee sleeve with gel paddingComfort on hard mats
Brace (medical)Support after injury; check legality

Fit and care

  • Measure around the knee for sizing.
  • It should stay in place during drills.
  • Wash and dry after each practice.
  • Replace when elastic loosens.
  • Keep a spare in your bag.

Frequently asked questions

Are kneepads allowed in competition?

Yes, as long as they meet the rules for padding and covering.

Should I wear one or two?

Many wrestlers wear one on the knee they shoot on; others wear two.

Do kneepads prevent injuries?

They reduce bruising and mat burns, but do not replace good technique.

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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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