What Are Wrestling Headgear Called?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Wrestling is a physically intense sport that requires athletes to compete on a mat using various techniques to gain control over their opponent. In order to ensure safety and prevent injuries, wrestlers wear protective gear, including headgear. Headgear is specifically designed to protect the wrestler’s ears and head during matches. But what are wrestling headgear called? Let’s find out! The Purpose of Wrestling Headgear Before we dive into the different names for wrestling headgear, let’s understand why it is an essential piece of equipment for wrestlers. Wrestling headgear serves several purposes: Ear Protection: One of the primary purposes of wrestling headgear is to protect the wrestler’s ears from injuries such as cauliflower ear. Cauliflower ear occurs when repeated trauma causes blood to collect between the skin and cartilage of the ear, resulting in a deformed appearance. Head Protection: Wrestling involves intense physical contact and maneuvers where the head can come into direct contact with other body parts or the mat. Headgear provides cushioning and protection against impact, reducing the risk of concussions or other head injuries. The Different Names for Wrestling Headgear Wrestling headgear goes by various names depending on where you’re located or what style of wrestling you’re involved in. Here are some common names used for wrestling headgear: Earguards Earguards are often used interchangeably with the term “wrestling headgear.” As the name suggests, earguards primarily focus on protecting the wrestler’s ears. They usually consist of two padded cups that cover each ear individually and are connected by straps that go across the top of the wrestler’s head. Headgear Headgear is a more general term that encompasses different types of protective gear for the head, including earguards. In some wrestling communities, the term “headgear” is commonly used instead of “earguards.” Headgear can refer to any form of protective gear worn on the head during wrestling matches. Cauliflower Ear Protectors This name specifically highlights the purpose of the headgear – protecting against cauliflower ear. Cauliflower ear protectors are designed to provide extra padding and support around the ears to prevent injuries that lead to this condition. It is often used in freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling. Conclusion Regardless of what they are called, wrestling headgear plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of wrestlers. Whether referred to as earguards, headgear, or cauliflower ear protectors, these pieces of equipment are essential for protecting against ear injuries and minimizing the risk of head trauma during intense wrestling matches. So next time you step onto the mat, make sure you have your wrestling headgear properly fitted and secured. Your ears and your overall safety will thank you!