Wrestling shoes are designed to provide a lightweight, flexible shoe for maximum comfort and movement. But for the wrestler who has flat feet or fallen arches, finding a shoe that fits properly and provides enough stability can be challenging. Wrestling shoes made for flat feet prevent pronation where the foot rolls medially, placing excessive stress on the ankle and knee while providing an overall comfortable fit and durable sole.
Wet Test
To find out what foot type you have, most shoe companies and stores recommend the "wet test." The wet test is important because the information can be used to determine the right type of wrestling shoe that matches your individual foot type. The wet test is performed by getting your foot wet and stepping on a dark surface to see the imprint of your foot. A flat foot will display a complete impression of the foot with little to no arch.
Stability
If you have flat feet, your wrestling shoes should provide enough lateral support to the outside and inside to protect your ankles and knees during a match. Your movement pattern when your foot strikes the ground is to roll medially to the inside. As a result, a wrestling shoe for flat feet will feature reinforced materials on the inside of the sole and arch to reduce pronation. However, the physical demands of wrestling require additional stability and support to the outside of the shoe.
Sole
The sole on wrestling shoes for flat feet should be a carbon rubber compound that promotes traction and durability. You can choose a split-sole or non-split sole shoe, depending on your personal preference. As a general rule, split sole shoes are more comfortable and have better traction than non-split shoes.
Overall Fit
Wrestling shoes made for flat feet should fit properly throughout the toe, width and heel area. The toe area should have a glove-like fit that allows you to move your toes comfortably while standing. The width should fit comfortably without stretching the upper material over the midsole; the heel should provide a snug fit.
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