Best Wrestling Protective Headgear of 2026

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

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Wrestling protective headgear is an essential accessory for wrestlers of all levels to protect their ears and head from injury during training and competition. These headgears are designed with soft padding and a snug fit to ensure maximum protection without compromising mobility. They come in various styles and colors to suit different preferences and are made of durable materials that can withstand the rigors of the sport. Most headgears are also adjustable, making them suitable for wrestlers of different ages and head sizes. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned wrestler, investing in a good quality protective headgear is a wise decision to prevent unnecessary injuries and ensure a safe and enjoyable wrestling experience.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Cliff Keen Wrestling Headgear - Black/Black Cover #TOP 1
Cliff Keen Wrestling Headgear - Black/Black
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Cliff Keen Chin Cup Strap Cover #TOP 2
Cliff Keen Chin Cup Strap
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Great Call Athletics Nelson Wrestling Headgear Pro Cover #TOP 3
Great Call Athletics Nelson Wrestling Headgear Pro
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Wrestling Protective Headgear

#TOP 1

Cliff Keen Wrestling Headgear - Black/Black

8139646
Black / Black
One Size
Cliff Keen Wrestling Headgear - Black/Black Cover
Cliff Keen Signature Wrestling Headgear (Black/Black)

This Cliff Keen wrestling headgear is a best seller and features a two-tone design in black. It provides excellent protection for wrestlers, with a category of wrestling protective headgear.

What We Like
Outstanding comfort and fit
Durable material
Effective ear protection
Highly adjustable straps
Lightweight design
What We Don't Like
Initial odor for some users
May not fit adults well
#TOP 2

Cliff Keen Chin Cup Strap

White
One Size
Cliff Keen Chin Cup Strap Cover
Chin Cup Strap for Cliff Keen Wrestling Headguard

The Cliff Keen Chin Strap is designed to fit securely on Cliff Keen wrestling headgear, as well as many other brands. This one-size strap ensures a comfortable and reliable fit, so you can focus on your match without worrying about your headgear shifting. By providing extra support around your chin, it helps keep your headguard in place during intense wrestling sessions. Whether you're training or competing, the Cliff Keen Chin Strap offers a simple and effective way to enhance your protective gear's stability and comfort.

What We Like
Comfortable fit
Secure and stays in place
Good value
Strong material
Easy to connect
#TOP 3

Great Call Athletics Nelson Wrestling Headgear Pro

NEL-007
Black/Black/Black
Adult
Great Call Athletics Nelson Wrestling Headgear Pro Cover
GCA Nelson Adult Wrestling Headgear Pro Adjustable Ear Guard D1 | BJJ MMA Universal Fit (Black/Black/Black)

The Great Call Nelson Headgear is designed for wrestlers who thrive under pressure and need reliable protection. It stays securely in place during intense scrambles and extended matches, giving you steady control without distraction. Its CoreShell Impact Frame spreads out impacts to protect your ears, while the ShockLock Gel Foam cushions against repeated contact and mat friction, helping to prevent cauliflower ear without bulky padding. The ClearWave Ports improve sound clarity by up to 37%, so you can hear your coach’s instructions clearly and react quickly during matches. Plus, it fits a wide range of head sizes, growing with you from youth to college competition.

What We Like
Secure, non-slip fit
Superior ear protection
Comfortable chin pad
Modern, stylish design
Reliable strap system
#TOP 4

adidas Wrestling Response Protective Headgear

Black
One Size
adidas Wrestling Response Protective Headgear Cover
adidas Wrestling Response Protective Headgear, Black/White, Adult Size

The adidas Wrestling Response Protective Headgear is a low profile and soft foam cover with adjustable vinyl straps. It features an injection molded internal plastic ear cup, soft chin pad and soft foam covered ear cups. It is designed for adult wrestlers and is adjustable to fit most sizes. Customers have praised the headgear for its comfort and protection, although some have found it difficult to adjust.

What We Like
Snug, secure fit
Comfortable, lightweight design
Easy strap adjustment
Durable ear protection
Good for long hair
What We Don't Like
Slight chin strap discomfort
Material could be more durable
#TOP 5

Cliff Keen Tornado Wrestling Headgear

FBA_1420147
One Size
Cliff Keen Tornado Wrestling Headgear Cover
Cliff Keen Tornado Wrestling Headgear (Black/Black/Black)

The Cliff Keen Tornado Wrestling Headgear is designed with patented "Air Vent System" technology and 80% greater audible sound technology, providing maximum comfort and protection. It features a Power tab on-the-fly strapping system that adjusts snuggly in seconds and ultra-deep ear cups for added protection. Customers have praised its easy-to-adjust fit and comfort, making it a great choice for wrestlers of all ages.

What We Like
Excellent ear and head protection
Adjustable secure fit straps
Comfortable lightweight design
Durable and long-lasting
Allows clear hearing
What We Don't Like
Foam may degrade over time
Velcro could detach eventually
#TOP 6

Cliff Keen Youth Tornado Head Gear

FBA_YF5-BKBKBK
One Size
Cliff Keen Youth Tornado Head Gear Cover
Cliff Keen Youth Tornado Wrestling Headgear (Black/Black/Black)

The Cliff Keen Youth Tornado Head Gear is 43% lighter than traditional headgears, making it easy and comfortable to wear during wrestling matches. The velcro straps make it easy to adjust and fit heads with a circumference of 18-21.5 inches at the eyebrows. This headgear is perfect for young wrestlers who need reliable protection.

What We Like
Comfortable padding
Secure fit
Adjustable straps
Great ear protection
Good for small heads
What We Don't Like
Initial strap adjustment tricky
Chin strap could be better
#TOP 7

ROAR-INT Kid's Adjustable Ear Guard Headgear

Ear-Guard-Kids
Black
Standard
ROAR-INT Kid's Adjustable Ear Guard Headgear Cover
ROAR-INT Kid's Ear Guard BJJ Grappling Head Guard Adjustable Wrestling Headgear For Boys and Girls Earguard MMA Jiu Jitsu (Black)

The ROAR-INT Kids Ear Guard offers strong protection for young athletes in wrestling, BJJ, MMA, and other combat sports. Made from premium neoprene, it provides durability and flexibility while resisting moisture, keeping the gear comfortable and long-lasting. You’ll appreciate the sturdy stitching, which ensures the ear guard holds up through intense training without falling apart. Its secure closure system, like Velcro or snaps, keeps the ear guard firmly in place, so you don’t have to worry about it slipping during practice. Plus, with a variety of stylish colors and designs, you can show off your unique look while staying safe on the mat.

What We Like
Excellent ear protection
Secure and comfortable fit
Great value for price
Durable construction
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Chin strap slightly long
May outgrow after a year

adidas Wizard Youth Headgear

AE202
Black
One Size
adidas Wizard Youth Headgear Cover
Adidas Youth Wizard Wrestling Ear Guard, Black

The adidas Wizard Youth Headgear is designed for young athletes, featuring a fully adjustable 3-strap system, low profile internal ear cup, closed cell foam construction, and soft chin pad. Customers report that it fits well, is comfortable, and is of good quality, though it may run small and the chin strap can be difficult to get through the fastener.

What We Like
Good ear protection
Comfortable fit
Highly adjustable straps
Durable Velcro
Great value
What We Don't Like
Fit may shift during tough matches
Some strap discomfort
#TOP 9

Trymaker Wrestling Headgear with Chin Cup

One Size
Trymaker Wrestling Headgear with Chin Cup Cover
Trymaker Wrestling Headgear, Head Gear for Men and Youth with Chin Cup, Dual-Layer Ear Guard for MMA, BJJ (for Users Age 10+)

The Trymaker Wrestling Headgear offers a customizable fit with its 5-point hook-and-loop adjustment system, allowing you to easily find a secure and comfortable fit that stays in place during your moves. Its dual-layer design includes a tough outer shell and thick foam padding, which helps protect your ears from injury and reduces pain from impacts. The headgear also features extra ventilation holes to keep you cool and let you hear your coach clearly. Plus, the soft silicone chin cup adds comfort by reducing pressure on your chin and neck, making it easier to focus on your performance.

What We Like
Easy size adjustment
Secure fit
Ear protection
Comfortable for kids
Removable chin strap
What We Don't Like
Minor chafing behind ears
Occasional durability issues
#TOP 10

ROAR-INT BJJ Ear Guard Protective Headgear

Black
One Size
ROAR-INT BJJ Ear Guard Protective Headgear Cover
ROAR-INT BJJ Ear Guard New Easy to Adjust Design Wrestling Protective Headgear Wrestling Ear Guard MMA Jiu Jitsu (Black)

The ROAR-INT Ear Guard offers a durable and flexible design made from premium neoprene, which keeps you comfortable and dry by resisting moisture during intense workouts. Its strong stitching ensures the ear guard holds up well through regular use, so you won’t have to worry about it wearing out quickly. The secure closure system, such as Velcro or snaps, keeps the guard firmly in place so it won’t shift while you train. Plus, with several stylish color options, you can protect your ears and show off your personal style whether you’re doing BJJ, wrestling, MMA, or boxing.

What We Like
Sturdy ear protection
Comfortable fit
Effective headgear performance
Affordable price
Reliable shipping
What We Don't Like
Velcro may tangle hair
Chin strap adjustment minor issue
Buying Guide Image

How to Choose the Best Wrestling Protective Headgear

Introduction

When it comes to wrestling, having the right protective headgear is essential for keeping yourself safe. The right headgear should fit comfortably and provide adequate coverage so you can focus on your moves and techniques. In this article, we'll discuss the key factors to consider when selecting wrestling protective headgear and provide some recommendations based on our research.

Factors to Consider

When choosing protective headgear, there are several factors to consider.

Fit - The headgear should be comfortable and provide a snug fit without being too tight. Make sure to measure your head before buying headgear to ensure you get the right size.

Coverage - Look for headgear that provides full coverage of the head, including the temples and the back of the head.

Material - Look for headgear that is made of a durable material, such as vinyl or leather. This material should be able to withstand the wear and tear of wrestling.

Ventilation - Make sure the headgear you choose is well-ventilated to keep your head cool during a match.

Visibility - Choose headgear that has an open-face design for maximum visibility. This will allow you to keep an eye on your opponent and make sure you see their moves.

Price - Don’t forget to consider the price when choosing headgear. Quality headgear can be expensive, so make sure you get the most bang for your buck.

Recommendations

When it comes to protective headgear, there are a few brands that stand out. For example, the Venum Challenger Headgear is a great choice for those who are looking for a durable and comfortable fit. This headgear is made of high-grade leather and features an open-face design for maximum visibility.

Another great option is the Cliff Keen Signature Headgear. This headgear is made of a lightweight and breathable material, making it perfect for long practice sessions. It also features an adjustable chin strap for a secure fit.

Finally, the Asics Aggressor 2 Wrestling Headgear is another top choice. This headgear is made of a durable and lightweight material and features an adjustable strap for a custom fit. It also features a low-profile design for maximum visibility.

Conclusion

Choosing the right protective headgear for wrestling can be a difficult task. However, by considering the factors discussed in this article and taking a look at our recommendations, you should be able to find the perfect headgear for your needs. Good luck and have fun!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does wrestling headgear prevent cauliflower ear?

Yes, wearing wrestling headgear can help prevent cauliflower ear and other permanent ear injuries. It provides protection for the head during a match and is an essential piece of equipment for wrestlers. There are various options available when it comes to purchasing wrestling headgear.

2. Should youth wrestlers wear headgear?

Yes, headgear is generally required for school wrestling teams at all levels, including elementary, junior high, and high school. Additionally, collegiate wrestling and youth wrestling leagues have regulations mandating the use of protective ear coverings. It is important for the safety and well-being of young wrestlers.

3. Do wrestlers wear headgear in practice?

Yes, it is crucial for wrestlers of all skill levels to wear proper wrestling headgear during both practice and matches. Wrestling headgear protects the face, ears, and the entire head from injuries. Many wrestlers have experienced blows to the head during intense matches, making headgear essential for their safety.

4. What are the two types of headgear?

There are two types of headgear commonly used in wrestling: hair covers and helmets. Hair covers are worn to protect the hair and keep it in place, while helmets are designed to provide overall head protection from various sources of impact. Both types of headgear serve different purposes in ensuring the safety of wrestlers.

5. What percentage of wrestlers get cauliflower ear?

While the exact percentage of people with cauliflower ear is unknown, studies have shown that approximately 39-45% of wrestlers have this condition. It is not limited to wrestlers alone and can also be seen in other professions, such as piano movers.

6. How long until cauliflower ear hardens?

It can take 5 to 10 days for a fluid-filled ear to harden and form cauliflower ear. After that, it may take up to 8 weeks for the perichondrium, the tissue covering the cartilage, to permanently attach to the cartilage surface.

7. What happens if you don't wear your headgear in wrestling?

If headgear is not worn during wrestling, it increases the risk of developing cauliflower ear. Headgear is specifically designed to protect the wrestler's ears, and without it, the repeated impact and friction can lead to the formation of cauliflower ear.

Editor's Notes

During our wrestling protective headgear research, we found 24 wrestling protective headgear products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 54,564 customer reviews through our big data system to write the wrestling protective headgear list. We found that most customers choose wrestling protective headgear with an average price of $32.95.

The wrestling protective headgear are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of wrestling protective headgear, including Cliff Keen, Great Call Athletics, adidas, ROAR-INT, Trymaker. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 826 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.

Wrestling Protective Headgear Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Cliff Keen Cliff Keen Great Call Athletics adidas Cliff Keen Cliff Keen ROAR-INT adidas Trymaker ROAR-INT
Color Black / Black White Black/Black/Black Black Black / Black / Black Black / Black / Black - Black Black Headgear & Black Strap Black
Age Range (Description) Adult Adult Adult - Adult Adult - Teen Age 10+ Adult
Size One Size One Size Adult - One Size One Size - One Size One Size One Size
Special Feature Adjustable Strap, Lightweight, Ventilation Adjustable Strap, Detachable Chin Guard, Lightweight ShockLock Gel Foam, ClearWave Ports - Adjustable Strap, Lightweight, Ventilation Adjustable Strap, Lightweight, Ventilation - Adjustable Adjustable Strap, Detachable Chin Guard Adjustable Strap
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy