ASICS Men's MATCONTROL 3 Wrestling Shoes - Flexible, Supportive

In this review of the ASICS Men's MATCONTROL 3 wrestling shoes, the bottom line is simple: these are designed for wrestlers who want a durable, supportive shoe that still allows natural foot movement. The MATCONTROL 3 stands out because it balances a flexible upper and targeted medial support so athletes can shift, sprawl, and drive without feeling restricted. Reviewers praise the comfort and ankle support, and the built-in shoelace garage keeps ties tucked during matches, making this a reliable choice from practice to competition.

Key Features

• Flexible outsole: Flexion grooves in the outsole let the forefoot bend naturally, improving connection with the mat during quick pivots and shots.
• Concealed laces: A shoelace garage in the eyestay keeps laces tucked and reduces the chance of loose ties distracting or catching during a bout.
• Medial stability unit: A support unit on the medial side increases stability for lunges and directional changes common in wrestling.
• Flexible upper construction: The upper moves with the foot for dynamic motion while still providing structure where it is needed for support.
• Sustainable sockliner: The solution dye sockliner lowers overall water use by about 33% and cuts carbon emissions by about 45%, a small but meaningful environmental benefit.

Who It's For

The MATCONTROL 3 is best for high school and collegiate wrestlers, club competitors, and training partners who want a single shoe for both practice and matches. Its blend of flexibility and medial support helps athletes who rely on quick footwork, ankle stability, and reliable traction on mat surfaces.

Wrestlers with very wide feet or those who prefer heavily cushioned competition shoes may want to try them on before committing, as some customers report a narrower fit. Those seeking extra insulation or shoes built primarily for casual wear should look elsewhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good balance of flexibility and support useful for dynamic wrestling movements.
• Durable construction that customers note breaks in quickly and lasts through heavy use.
• Shoelace garage keeps laces tucked and secure during matches.
• Solution dye sockliner reduces water use and carbon emissions compared with standard dyeing.

Cons

• Fit may run narrow for some users, so trying on or sizing consideration is recommended.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The ASICS MATCONTROL 3 is a practical, well rounded wrestling shoe that delivers meaningful flexibility without giving up stability, making it a good value for competitors and regular trainers. It is particularly suited to athletes who prioritize mat feel and ankle support; shoppers with wider feet should check fit before purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for competition?
Yes, the MATCONTROL 3 is built to transition from practice to matches with secure lacing and stable support.

Do they run true to size?
Many customers find them true to size, but some report a narrow fit so trying on is advised for wide-footed wrestlers.

What sustainability feature do they include?
They use a solution dye sockliner which reduces water usage by about 33% and cuts carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional dyeing.