2022 BEST WRESTLING HEADGEAR- In-Depth Review
Updated: Apr 8, 2022
Wrestling headgear is used during practice and competition as a form of personal protective equipment. By cushioning the impact of blows to these parts of the head, they protect the ears and chin. Therefore, we have compiled a list of the top wrestling headgears so that you do not waste your time and money on cheap headgears that don't work.
How We Tested
Based on a rigorous research process, we recommend these products in order to cut through the noise and find the best products available in this space. To compile this list, we studied thousands of reviews, consulted wrestling community members, and conducted hours of research. Here are our picks for the best wrestling headgears on the market today.
BEST OVERALL:
Cliff Kleen Signature Headgear
Where to buy: SOLD by DICKS's Sporting Goods
Price Check: Amazon
What you need to know: Wearing Cliff Keen Signature wrestling headgear helps keep you mentally focused to escape a pin. Cliff Keen patented the revolutionary foam E41 headgear 50 years ago, which is the source of the Signature's design. The inner shell is stronger than ever, using special polycarbonate composite (super fancy plastic) to make the headgear stronger, lighter, and extremely durable. Fully encased with VNF foam, it feels like a little pillow strapped to your head. These ear guards have proven their place in wrestling with their lightweight, comfortable protection and reduced friction on the mat with their smooth design.
What you'll love: This extremely lightweight headgear has a power tab strapping system so you can quickly adjust it on the fly. It also includes an SP94 Chin Strap.
What you should consider: Some consumers have complained about a lack of sound clarity, which could make hearing coaches difficult.
Nitty Gritty Details:
Sizing- One Size Fits Most
Color- 8 Options
Material- Plastic, Foam
Strap Technology- Vinyl
Number of Straps- 5
Styling- Old School
Sound Clarity- Low
Adustability- Hard
Sweat Resitance- High
Cup Profile- Normal
RUNNER UP:
Cliff Keen Adult F5 Tornado
Where to buy: SOLD by DICK's Sporting Goods
Price Check: Amazon
What you need to know: Keep your opponent at bay while protecting yourself with the Cliff Keen Tornado. Newly designed based on NASA research, the F5 is significantly lighter than previous versions so you can stay focused on your competition instead of being weighed down by extra bulk. This wrestling headgear has a 4-strap PowerTab strapping system for an improved, faster fit. The F5 also features greater audible sound technology to help you hear coaches and is 43% lighter than its predecessors.
What you'll love: This headgear has over 20 different colors and designs for you to choose from. A power tab strap for a faster fit. The plastic shell also has ventilated air holes for increased sound audibility so you can hear coaches.
What you should consider: Although adjustable, a few consumers have complained the headgear is too small and the velcro straps can come undone.
Nitty Gritty Details
Sizing- One Size Fits Most
Color- 20 Options
Material- Plastic, Foam
Strap Technology- Velcro
Number of Straps- 5
Styling- Modern
Sound Clarity- High
Adjustability- Easy
Sweat Resistance- Low
Cup Profile- Normal
HONORABLE MENTION:
Adidas Response Earguard AE 100
Where to buy: SOLD by DICK's Sporting Goods
Price Check: Amazon
What you need to know: Adidas Response Ear Guard is one of the most stylish and high-quality headgears available today. The strap holder and the chin cup are included. Although not for everyone, a chin cup can often make for a more comfortable fit without choking. Injected molded plastic earcups are covered in soft foam padding and have a sleek, low-profile design. Adjustable vinyl straps ensure a perfect fit. An Adidas Logo with its classic three stripes gives this ear guard that extra flair.
What you'll love: The headgear is offered in 11 different colors and comes with the classic Adidas stripes on the side of the ear cup. With the foam padding, an internal injection-molded ear cup further protects the ears.
What you should consider: Some users have reported that this headgear can be difficult to adjust and the vinyl straps are not very durable and have snapped after only a few matches.
Nitty Gritty Details:
Sizing- One Size Fits Most
Color- 11 Options
Material- Foam Shell, Vinyl Straps
Strap Technology- Vinyl
Number of Straps- 5
Styling-Old School
Sound Quality- Low
Adjustability- Hard
Sweat Resistance-High
Cup Profile- Normal
WORTH MENTIONING:
Asics Agressor Earguard
Where to buy: SOLD by Asics
Price Check: Amazon- is not available
What you need to know: In five color options, the Asics Aggressor Earguard offers the high-quality protection that wrestlers deserve. Aggressor gives you excellent protection and impact absorption. It uses a sturdy shell lined with gel padding. You don’t have to worry about any shock reaching your head.
What you'll love: Featuring a quick adjustable strap system, high-impact gel resistant padding, a low profile classic look, and an injection-molded polypropylene shell, this one's made for true competitors.
What you should consider: There is a possibility that this headgear may be initially difficult to adjust. Several people have also complained about low sound quality and sweat accumulation on the straps.
Nitty Gritty Details:
Sizing- One Size Fits Most
Color- 5 options
Material-Polyproplene shell
Strap Technology- Velcro
Number of Straps- 5
Styling- Old School
Sound Quality- Low
Adjustability- Easy
Sweat Resistance-High
Cup Profile- Normal
ALSO CONSIDER:
Asics Snapdown Headgear
Where to buy: SOLD by ASICS
Price Check: Amazon
What you need to know: Gain additional power in snapping down your opponent with this high-quality wrestling headgear designed by Asics. Featuring a fully adjustable ear strap and foam molds to reduce friction and deliver the most comfortable and custom fit, the Snap Down Earguard features additional padding and a molded foam shell.
What you’ll love: This durable headgear has a snap-on chin cup to stay more secure when in a match or heavy practice. Accessories Included Chin Cup, Two Strap Slot Holder
What you should consider: Some consumers say the vinyl straps take a while to break in and properly fit your head.
Nitty Gritty Details:
Sizing- One Size Fits Most
Color- 6 Options
Material-Foam
Strap Technology- Vinyl
Number of Straps- 5
Styling- Old School
Sound Quality- Low
Adjustability- Hard
Sweat Resistance-High
Cup Profile- Normal
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