Do you need to buy your child a wrestling singlet? If you're not sure where to start, take a look at the top tips to help you find the perfect fit.
Choose a Cut
As uniforms, singlets are fairly standard when it comes to cut. While you won't find wide variations, you may see two main styles — high- and low-cut versions. The high-cut style provides more coverage. These wrestling uniforms come closer to the neck and arms.
In comparison to the high-cut version, the low-cut style has exactly what the name says — a lower cut. Often worn for freestyle or Greco-Roman wrestling, these uniforms dip into the middle of the chest and fall lower under the armpit region.
How do you know which cut to choose? The answer depends on the style of wrestling and your child's comfort preferences. If you aren't sure which style your child will wrestle in or if the team requires a specific type of uniform, ask their coach which cut is the appropriate selection.
Choose a Size
What size is the right pick for your child? Even though you know what size pants and shirts to buy your child, this may not necessarily translate into your child's wrestling gear. Keep in mind that a singlet needs to have a snug fit. You don't want the fabric to gap, drape, or fit loosely in any other way.
While sizes may differ by manufacturer, most are grouped by weight. But that doesn't mean your child will always fit into the size that matches their weight. If that sounds confusing, consider your child's body type. A shorter muscular child may weigh the same as one who is taller and less muscular or thinner. Even though these wrestlers weigh the same, the singlet will fit differently.
Start with the weight-graded size. If the first choice is too loose or too snug (you don't want the material to pinch, bind, or restrict movement), try another size. Different manufacturers may have slightly different sizes or cuts. This means if one type of singlet just won't fit correctly, you may need to switch brands to find the perfect one.
Choose Extras
Along with cut and size, some new wrestling singlets have additional features. These include the type of stitching used, fabric, or leg grippers. If your child is sensitive to the feel of some types of fabrics, try a few different blends until you get one that doesn't distract them from their match. Likewise, explore types of stitching until you find one that doesn't irritate or aggravate your child's skin.
From the style to the size and beyond, the right singlet is only a few steps away. Before your child settles on one, talk to the coach about team requirements, try on a few sizes, and experiment with different styles and fabrics.
