Wrestling Headgear Stickers vs. Custom Wrestling Headgear
What is the best way to customize your headgear?
Wrestling Headgear Stickers
Wrestling headgear stickers are a popular way to personalize headgear. Many young wrestlers, as well as collegiate athletes, are drawn to this easy way to add their name or school logo to their headgear. While this is the easiest and least expensive method of customization, often times it is forbidden by wrestling organizations.
Advantages
The biggest advantage of headgear stickers is the ease of applying them to headgear. They will stick just about anywhere, and stickers are available in every color and design imaginable. Custom stickers can be bought at a higher cost, like the ones in the photo to the left.
The other main advatage of headgear stickers is the affordability. Most stickers are inexpensive and custom stickers are less expensive than new headgear.
Disadvantages
The main disadvantage of stickers is they are not by any means permanent. Usually, they peel or fall off after just a few matches. Because of this, the use of stickers is not recommended and most wrestling organizations prohibit the use of stickers, even if it is not alwasy enforced. Even though stickers are less expensive than new headgear, they need to be replaced often and will not last. Also, stickers can cover vent holes which inhibit hearing and the breathability of the headgear.
Because stickers are prohibited, wrestlers can be punished for using them. The high quality, thick stickers scratch opponents when they are peeling. They are strong enough to draw blood. This is the main reason they are not allowed.
Overview
Overall, it is best to avoid the use of stickers on wrestling headgear. Stickers are not only against the rules for good reason, they are dangerous and can lead to the injury of your opponent. There are safer and longer lasting ways to customize headgear. Custom headgear that has logos or designs sealed in place is the best way to go. Stickers do not adhere very well on foam. Because of this, it is recommended that they not be used.