ASICS Men's MATCONTROL 3 Wrestling Shoes - Stable, Flexible Mat

In this review of the ASICS Men's MATCONTROL 3 wrestling shoes the bottom line is clear: these are a durable, stable mat shoe built for wrestlers who need reliable support and flexible movement during practice and competition. The MATCONTROL 3 is best for athletes who value ankle support, a locked-in fit and outsole flexibility; its combination of a flexible upper, medial side support unit and outsole flexion grooves makes it a practical choice for on-mat performance. The review finds the shoes break in quickly for many users and deliver solid traction and durability without unnecessary frills.

Key Features

• Flexible outsole: Flexion grooves in the outsole improve natural foot flex for better movement and transition during takedowns and scrambles.
• Concealed laces: A shoelace garage in the eyestay keeps laces tucked and reduces distractions or loose ends during matches.
• Supportive midfoot: A medial side support unit provides added stability when changing direction or planting on the mat.
• Water-saving sockliner: The solution dye sockliner reduces overall water usage by about 33% and lowers carbon emissions by about 45%, offering a more sustainable component.
• Durable construction: Built to withstand regular practice, the shoe balances a flexible upper with materials designed to resist wear in training environments.

Who It's For

The MATCONTROL 3 is aimed at wrestlers - from high school competitors to club athletes - who need a shoe that transitions well between practice and matches while offering reliable ankle support and good on-mat traction. It is a solid choice for athletes who prefer a shoe that breaks in quickly and holds up through repeated sessions.

Runners who want a lightweight training shoe or casual wearers seeking general sneakers should look elsewhere; this model is purpose-built for mat sports and focuses on stability and grip rather than cushioned long-distance comfort.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good ankle support and stability from the medial side unit for aggressive footwork.
• Comfortable fit for many users with quick break-in and dependable durability in practice.
• Flexion grooves in the outsole enhance natural flex and mat feel for better maneuvering.
• Shoelace garage keeps laces secure so they do not interfere in matches.

Cons

• Some users report a narrow fit, so those with wider feet may need to size up or try first.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The ASICS MATCONTROL 3 is a practical wrestling shoe that blends flexibility, stability and durability at a sensible value for on-mat athletes. Wrestlers who prioritize ankle support, a secure fit and effective traction will find this shoe worthwhile; those with particularly wide feet should try before buying or consider a wider option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shoes run true to size?
Many customers report they run true to size, but some find the fit narrow so trying them on or considering a half size up is recommended.

Are these shoes good for competitions?
Yes, the MATCONTROL 3 is designed to transition from practice to matches with features like the shoelace garage and outsole traction aimed at competition use.

Is there an eco benefit to the sockliner?
The solution dye sockliner reduces water usage by about 33% and lowers carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional dye processes.