Section 03

Wrestling Singlet Buying Guide

Get the right uniform on day one — without overspending on something they'll outgrow in a season.

Quick picks

Best Option For…

Best first singlet

Matman Youth Lycra

Affordable, breathable, fits true. $25–$35.

Best on a budget

Brute Lycra Solid

Reliable for one full season under $30.

Best for growing kids

Cliff Keen Compression

4-way stretch, holds size up well. $40–$55.

Best for advanced

Asics / Adidas Sublimated

Locked-in fit, premium fabric. $60–$90.

Style options

Singlet vs Two-Piece

Traditional Singlet

Pros

  • USAW & folkstyle legal
  • Snug fit prevents grip
  • Classic look

Cons

  • Some kids feel exposed
  • Locker-room dread
Best for: Most youth wrestlers — required for most events

Two-Piece (Compression Top + Shorts)

Pros

  • More body confidence
  • Easier bathroom breaks
  • Great for practice

Cons

  • Not legal at every tournament — check rules
  • Top must stay tucked
Best for: Newer wrestlers, freestyle/Greco events that allow it

Fight Shorts + Rashguard

Pros

  • Very comfortable
  • Doubles for camps & open mats

Cons

  • Rarely tournament-legal
  • Loose fabric = grip risk
Best for: Practice only — not for sanctioned matches

Brand comparison

How Each Brand Fits

Brand
Fit
Notes
Cliff Keen
True to size
Gold standard. Lasts multiple seasons.
All levels
Asics
Slim
Sleek competition cut. Great compression.
Intermediate+
Brute
Standard
Affordable, durable, kid-friendly designs.
Beginner+
Matman
Standard / Wide
Best youth budget option. Solid first singlet.
Beginner
Adidas
Slim
Premium feel, modern cut. Pricier.
Intermediate+

Sizing

Singlet Size Chart

Fit rule: A singlet should hug the body — no loose fabric an opponent can grab. If it's snug but your athlete can breathe and move freely, it fits. When between sizes, size up for growing kids.

Size
Weight
Height
YXS
45–60 lbs
3'8"–4'2"
YS
60–75 lbs
4'2"–4'6"
YM
75–95 lbs
4'6"–4'10"
YL
95–115 lbs
4'10"–5'2"
AS
115–135 lbs
5'2"–5'6"
AM
135–160 lbs
5'6"–5'10"

Care & longevity

Make It Last

Wash cold

Cold water, gentle cycle, inside out. Heat destroys lycra.

Hang dry

Never tumble dry. Heat shrinks the panels and warps the fit.

Own two

One for practice/back-up, one clean for tournaments. Avoids race-day panic.