High school wrestling uniform rules are short, but a uniform that breaks them can keep a wrestler off the mat at weigh-ins. This guide explains the NFHS wrestling uniform rules that matter when you design and order team gear, so every singlet, compression shirt and pair of shorts you buy is legal on day one.
Always confirm with your state association too. Most states follow the NFHS rules, but some add their own reminders and interpretations.
The two legal uniform options
Under NFHS rules a wrestler can compete in either:
- A one-piece wrestling singlet, or
- A two-piece wrestling uniform: a form-fitted compression shirt worn with compression shorts or shorts designed for wrestling.
Both options must be school-issued or school-approved, so the whole team should match.
Wrestling uniform rules for singlets
The rules control how low a singlet can be cut:
- Front and back: cut no lower than the level of the armpits.
- Under the arms: no lower than halfway between the armpit and the belt line.
High-cut and low-cut legs are both legal. High-cut singlets give more freedom on the mat; low-cut singlets give more coverage. Many girls’ programs choose a women’s wrestling singlet with a higher front neckline and a contoured fit through the hips.
Two-piece uniform rules
Compression shirt
The shirt must be form-fitted, must not cover or extend below the elbow, and needs a minimum 3-inch tail so it stays tucked in. That means a short sleeve compression shirt works for matches, while a long sleeve compression shirt is for practice and warm-ups only.
Shorts
Compression shorts or shorts designed for wrestling need a minimum 4-inch inseam, must not extend below the knee, and must have an elastic waistband. They cannot have exposed drawstrings, belt loops, zippers, snaps, buttons or pockets. Our wrestling fight shorts use a fabric-covered elastic waistband with a hidden drawstring for exactly this reason. A wrestler wearing shorts must also wear a suitable undergarment that fully covers the buttocks and groin, such as compression shorts.
Rules for female wrestlers
Female wrestlers must wear a sports bra or similar undergarment that completely covers the breasts, whether they compete in a singlet or a two-piece uniform. A compression shirt under a singlet is optional.
Undergarments and extra layers
- A compression shirt worn under a singlet must be a single solid color with no markings.
- Undergarments that extend past the inseam must be tight-fitting and must not go below the knee.
- Full-length form-fitted tights may be worn with a singlet in most states.
Logos, names and maker’s marks
Your school name, nickname, logo or mascot are fine. A manufacturer’s mark can be no larger than 2¼ square inches, with no dimension over 2¼ inches, and can appear only once on each item. A two-piece uniform can carry one mark on each piece. Sponsor names and advertising are not allowed. When we make your uniforms, we keep our mark within this limit or leave it off.
How to order a legal uniform
- Decide between singlets, two-piece uniforms or both. Many teams now offer both.
- Tell us which pieces are for competition and which are for practice, so we build each to the right spec.
- Send your roster with weight classes. We make youth XS to adult 3XL in one run.
- Order at least 3–4 weeks before your first meet. Most orders arrive in 2–3 weeks from your deposit, with manufacturing and shipping included.
Ready to start? Request a quote and you’ll get pricing and a digital mockup within 24 hours, or browse all custom wrestling uniforms.
Related guides
- Wrestling singlet fabric guide: 140 vs 170 vs 220–240 GSM
- How to size a team uniform order
- When to order team uniforms
Frequently asked questions
Can a wrestler wear a long sleeve shirt in a match?
Not as part of a two-piece uniform. The compression shirt cannot cover or extend below the elbow. Long sleeves are fine for practice and warm-ups.
Are fight shorts legal in high school wrestling?
Yes, when they have at least a 4-inch inseam, end above the knee, have an elastic waistband and have no exposed drawstring, belt loops, zippers, snaps, buttons or pockets.
Do singlets have to be in school colors?
The uniform must be school-issued or approved. Check your state association for any local color rules.
Sources: NFHS wrestling uniform rules and state association uniform guidance. Rules can change each season, so confirm the current rules with your state association before ordering.