WrestlingMart Headband: Stay dry, stay cool, be cool.
WrestlingMart Headband: Stay dry, stay cool, be cool.
To most people, wearing headbands is something people did in the 80’s to complement their full-neon windbreak jumpsuit, or purple biker shorts. For some reason, wrestlers (and aging basketball players) have kept headbands alive and turned it into their own unique fashion statement. Even though you can’t actually wear headbands for practice or competition, they are ubiquitous in the wrestling world. You’re likely to see them all over at every wrestling tournament or dual meet you go to, being worn by team captains and the “I’m just happy to be here” types, and everyone in between. Like most wrestling fashion staples, this phenomenon is largely unexplained, but we still love it because it makes wrestlers unique and let’s be honest…they make you look pretty cool.
Ok, so aside from making you look awesome, there are actually several very practical reasons for wearing a headband. Let’s go through the list:
1. Keep sweat outta your face and stay cool
This should be pretty obvious, given that headbands are also known as “sweatbands”. Keep sweat away is pretty much their main purpose. So when you get that triple overtime win and walk off the mat drenched in sweat, you can throw a headband on after and keep the sweat out of your face. Bonus points: a moisture-wicking headband will help you cool down faster. This is also helpful for when you’re doing off-the-mat training like running, running hills, running with someone on your back…so yeah, running.
2. Prevent “the funk” around your hairline
Another added benefit of wearing a moisture-wicking headband and keeping sweat out of your face is that it can help prevent nasty skin infections on your face and hairline. When all that nasty grime and sweat is just sitting there on your skin and dripping down, you’re more likely to catch some funk. Word of caution: this only really applies if your headband is clean! Also, washing your face like a normal human being helps too.
3. Intimidation factor
Admit it, there have been times when you found out you’re wrestling the dude with the headband and you thought “well. I’ll try not to get pinned.” Now you get to be that guy! There’s something about putting on a really cool headband that gives you that extra bit of confidence and attitude that could give you an edge in your next match!
4. You’re easier to spot in a large, crowded gym
This is great for parents, coaches, fans, and recruiters alike. In a crowded gymnasium or stadium full of wrestlers and fans, it can sometimes be hard for people to spot you and get the video camera ready before your match starts. Just think how much easier it would be if the team mom could just tell everyone “Hey look Jimmy is coming up on mat 3! He’s wearing the pink headband!” Similarly, if you’re a junior or senior looking to wrestle in college, a noticeable headband might help recruiters keep an eye on you. You also have to be a good wrestler.
5. Style and self-expression
This kind of falls under the because-it-looks-cool category. In keeping with our “if you look good, you wrestle good” mantra, things like a killer headband, funky socks, or fresh shoes just make you feel good and give you an avenue to express your own style.
6. Just ‘cause
If none of these reasons apply to you, don’t sweat it. You don’t need a reason to be awesome.
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