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

Our review of the ASICS Men's MATCONTROL 3 wrestling shoe finds it best suited to wrestlers who need stable ankle support and durable construction without sacrificing mat feel. The single biggest reason to buy is the blend of flexibility and stability: the shoe's flexible upper and outsole flexion grooves move with the foot during quick maneuvers while a medial side support unit and shoe construction maintain control, making it a reliable option for both practice and competition.

Key Features

• Flexible outsole: Flexion grooves in the outsole improve range of motion and let the forefoot bend naturally for quick directional changes on the mat.
• Concealed laces: A shoelace garage integrated into the eyestay keeps laces tucked and reduces the chance of loose ends during matches.
• Supportive midfoot: The medial side support unit stabilizes the foot during lateral movement and helps prevent unwanted rolling on takedowns.
• Durable upper: A flexible upper construction is built to move with the foot while resisting wear from frequent practice sessions.
• Lower environmental impact: The solution dye sockliner reduces water usage by approximately 33% and cuts carbon emissions by approximately 45%, lowering the shoe's environmental footprint.

Who It's For

The MATCONTROL 3 suits amateur and club wrestlers who need a shoe that works equally well in practice and on match day, particularly those who value ankle support and a secure lace system. It is also a good pick for athletes who prefer a shoe that bends with the foot for scrambling and rapid direction changes.

Wrestlers who require a very wide fit or custom orthotics may want to try them on first, since customer feedback reports mixed fit impressions with some finding them narrow. Those who prioritize an ultra-lightweight racing feel over stability might prefer a different, lower-profile model.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Stable medial side support unit provides dependable ankle control during matches.
• Flexion grooves and a flexible upper deliver natural foot movement and good mat feel.
• Shoelace garage keeps laces secured and reduces distractions mid-match.
• Solution dye sockliner reduces water use and carbon emissions for a smaller environmental footprint.

Cons

• Fit is mixed across customers; some may find the shoe narrower than expected and should try before committing.
• Not the lightest option for athletes seeking an ultra-minimal feel.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The ASICS MATCONTROL 3 is a well-rounded wrestling shoe for athletes who need a mix of flexibility and support at a fair value; its flexion grooves, medial support and shoelace garage make it practical for match and practice, while the reduced-impact sockliner adds an eco-minded advantage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for competition?
Yes, they are designed to transition from practice to matches with stability and traction suitable for competitive wrestling.

Do they run true to size?
Fit is mixed among customers; many report true-to-size while some find them narrow, so trying them on is recommended.

What environmental benefits does the sockliner provide?
The solution dye sockliner reduces overall water usage by about 33% and lowers carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional dyeing.