Do Wrestling Clubs Provide Loaner Gear, or Do We Need to Buy Our Own?

If your child is new to wrestling, you may wonder whether wrestling clubs typically provide loaner gear or if you’re required to purchase everything yourself. Getting involved in wrestling is exciting, but the costs of shoes, singlets, headgear, and other equipment can add up quickly. The good news is that many wrestling clubs offer solutions that help new wrestlers and their families manage these costs. Understanding what's typically provided and what you'll need to purchase can help you prepare and support your child's entry into the sport.

Loaner Gear at Wrestling Clubs: What to Expect

Many wrestling clubs, especially those geared towards younger wrestlers or beginners, do provide some loaner equipment to help families get started. This gear typically includes basic items such as wrestling shoes, headgear, and sometimes singlets. Wrestling clubs understand that investing in new gear might be a financial challenge, especially when children are just trying out the sport for the first time. By providing loaner gear, clubs reduce barriers for families and allow more kids to experience wrestling without upfront costs.

However, the availability of loaner gear varies widely from one club to another. Some clubs have an extensive inventory of equipment in various sizes, while others may only have limited options or specific items. Often, loaner gear is provided on a first-come, first-served basis or prioritized for first-year wrestlers.

What Gear Do Clubs Typically Loan Out?

Most wrestling clubs that offer loaner gear usually provide items such as:

Wrestling Shoes: Typically, clubs will have a range of used wrestling shoes in various sizes. These loaner shoes help kids try wrestling without immediately investing in specialized footwear.
Headgear: Many clubs provide basic headgear to new wrestlers. Headgear is often mandatory in youth and scholastic competitions, making it an important piece of protective equipment.
Singlets: Some clubs keep a selection of singlets, often older team uniforms or donated gear, to loan out during matches or tournaments. This helps wrestlers feel more comfortable when competing for the first time without the expense of buying new gear.

Availability of loaner equipment often depends on donations, fundraising efforts, or previous wrestlers passing down gear as they grow or move up in age groups.

When Should We Consider Buying Our Own Gear?

Although loaner gear can be a great short-term solution, many families choose to purchase their own equipment after their child commits to wrestling regularly. Investing in personal gear has several benefits:

Fit and Comfort: Personalized gear, especially shoes and headgear, tends to fit better, providing greater comfort and protection.
Hygiene: Owning your gear ensures proper hygiene, as loaner equipment often sees repeated use by different wrestlers.
Consistency and Familiarity: Wrestlers often perform better and feel more confident when using gear tailored specifically to them.

Most clubs recommend wrestlers eventually purchase their own wrestling shoes and headgear after the initial trial period, typically within their first season.

Finding Affordable Gear Options

If you decide to purchase gear, there are affordable ways to do so. Many clubs host gear swaps or sales, where gently used items like shoes, singlets, and headgear can be purchased inexpensively. Additionally, shopping at sporting goods stores during off-season sales or browsing online for discounts can help families find affordable, quality equipment.

Wrestling specialty stores and websites often run promotions on gear bundles, including shoes, singlets, and headgear. Buying used gear through club connections or online marketplaces can also significantly reduce costs.

Communicating With Your Club

Before your child’s first practice, it’s a good idea to reach out directly to your wrestling club or coaches to inquire about loaner equipment. Most coaches and club organizers will clearly explain what gear they provide, what they recommend purchasing, and where you can find affordable options.

Open communication ensures your child will be fully prepared and comfortable from day one, allowing them to focus on learning, training, and having fun.

Loaner Gear Is Helpful, But Owning Gear Has Advantages

While many wrestling clubs offer loaner gear to help families ease into the sport, ultimately purchasing your own wrestling gear provides better comfort, safety, and confidence for your wrestler. Utilizing loaner equipment initially is a great way to introduce your child to wrestling without large upfront costs, but as your child becomes more involved in the sport, having personalized gear becomes increasingly beneficial.

Whether you borrow gear from your club or decide to invest in your own equipment right away, the important thing is ensuring your wrestler feels comfortable, safe, and ready to fully embrace the sport. Wrestling teaches invaluable lessons in discipline, determination, and resilience—and having the right gear ensures your child’s wrestling experience starts on a positive note.