ASICS Men's Matflex 7 Wrestling Shoes for Men - Durable Grip

In this review of the ASICS Men's Matflex 7 wrestling shoes, the bottom line is simple: these are a budget-friendly, comfortable option for wrestlers and athletes who need reliable traction and lightweight support. The shoe is best for entry-level competitors, club wrestlers, and anyone who wants a versatile mat shoe for training, weightlifting, or martial arts. The standout reason to buy is the full-length gum rubber outsole that delivers consistent grip on the mat while the shoe remains breathable and light.

Key Features

• Full-length gum rubber outsole: provides dependable traction and surface grip so footing stays secure during takedowns and pivots.
• Enhanced breathability: targeted ventilation panels keep the foot cooler during long practice sessions and reduce sweat buildup.
• Lightweight construction: at about 8.3 oz the shoe moves with the foot for quick changes of direction without feeling bulky.
• E. V. A. sockliner: adds immediate underfoot cushioning for comfort during long workouts and repeated impact.
• Solution dye sockliner: manufactured to reduce water usage by roughly 33% and carbon emissions by about 45%, a small environmental benefit in production.

Who It's For

The Matflex 7 suits entry-level wrestlers, high school athletes, club competitors, and cross-training users who want an affordable mat shoe with good traction and breathability. It is a practical choice for coaches stocking practice gear or for anyone who needs a lightweight shoe they can also use for conditioning and gym work.

Those who should look elsewhere include athletes seeking a very narrow race-style fit, specialty freestyle or international competition shoes, or users who require advanced ankle support or custom orthotics. Also consider sizing up if you are between sizes, as this style can run small for some customers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong traction from the full-length gum rubber outsole keeps grip consistent on most mat surfaces.
• Comfortable ride thanks to the E. V. A. sockliner and lightweight overall weight.
• Good long-term value and durability for the price, with many customers noting season-long use.

Cons

• Fit can run small or feel narrow for some users, so many prefer to order a half size up.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The ASICS Men's Matflex 7 is a strong value pick for entry-level and practice-focused wrestlers who need reliable grip, breathability, and lightweight comfort without a high price tag. It performs well across mat work and general training, though buyers should be mindful of the fit and consider ordering a half size larger if between sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shoes offer good traction on competition mats?
Yes. The full-length gum rubber outsole provides dependable traction suitable for practice and many tournament mats.

Should I size up or down?
Many customers report the style runs small or narrow; sizing up a half size is commonly recommended if you are between sizes.

Are these shoes durable enough for a season of matches?
Yes. Customers note good durability and that the shoes can hold up through regular season use with normal training.