Those who give their all in wrestling want to see what they’re fighting for – and this is exactly where the ASICS EX-EO in custom color come into play. Instead of the standard black-red, you design your wrestling shoe completely yourself: your colors, your team look, your presence on the mat. The EX-EO (model number 1083A001) is the direct successor to the legendary ASICS TWR900 and is considered by many ambitious wrestlers to be the best competition shoe Japan has to offer.
In this guide, you’ll learn what technically distinguishes the EX-EO, why a custom-designed wrestling shoe is worthwhile, which color combinations work best, and what to consider when designing, sizing, and ordering.
What are the ASICS EX-EO wrestling shoes?
The ASICS EX-EO represents the cutting edge of Japanese wrestling shoe technology. Made and imported directly from Japan, they combine features that make a difference in competition:
- Optimal grip: The specially developed sole gives you maximum traction during sprawls, penetration steps, and quick position changes.
- Lightweight: The lightweight upper ensures the shoe doesn’t slow you down – crucial especially in the lighter weight classes.
- Breathable fabrics: Your foot stays comfortably tempered even in the third round of competition.
- Without insole: For pure mat feel and direct ground contact – those who want more cushioning can add the separately available ASICS Performance Sockliner.
The EX-EO is available as a finished color variant in blue/red – or as a fully customizable model, which is the focus of this article.
What makes the custom color version special?
With the ASICS EX-EO in custom color, you decide every detail yourself. Using the official ASICS configurator, you set the colors for the upper, sole, laces, logo, and other elements. Optionally, your name can even be embroidered on the shoe.
The result is a shoe that is one of a kind – tailored to your personality or your club's colors. Since each pair is made to order in Japan, the delivery time is about 40 to 80 days. In return, you get a true unique piece instead of mass-produced goods.
Why custom wrestling shoes are worth it
A custom-designed shoe is more than just looks. There are solid reasons why more and more wrestlers are opting for individual colors:
- Recognition on the mat: Coaches, referees, and spectators recognize you immediately – a real advantage, especially in team matches and big tournaments.
- Mental effect: Those who feel strong and unique in their gear enter the match with more confidence. This psychological boost should not be underestimated.
- Team affiliation: Designed in club colors, the shoes strengthen team cohesion and a unified appearance.
- Uniqueness: No one else in the competition wears exactly your design – you clearly stand out from the crowd.
Design inspiration: The best color combinations
Not sure which colors work? These proven approaches will help you with the design:
Incorporate club colors
The classic: Use the colors of your wrestling club. This creates a harmonious overall appearance, especially if the whole team opts for matching shoes. Combine the shoes with a color-coordinated wrestling singlet for the complete look.
Wear national colors
Black-red-gold for Germany or the colors of your home country look noble and patriotic – ideal for international competitions or as a statement.
Create contrast
Strong complementary colors like blue-orange or black-neon yellow immediately stand out and ensure maximum visibility on the mat.
Discreet and timeless
If you like it simple, choose tone-on-tone combinations like black with white or gray accents. These designs never go out of style and match any singlet.
Custom Color or ready-made model – which suits you?
Not everyone needs a custom-designed model. Here is the honest decision aid:
| Criterion | Custom Color | Ready-made (Blue/Red) |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery time | 40–80 days | 1–2 days |
| Custom design | Yes, completely free | No |
| Name embroidery possible | Yes | No |
| Return possible | No (custom-made) | Yes, 30 days |
| Ideal for | Planned season, team look, unique piece | Urgent need, competition coming up |
Rule of thumb: If your next competition is in a few days, go for the ready-made Blue/Red version. If you plan long-term and want a unique design, the Custom Color version is worth it.
What you should pay attention to when designing
- Observe compliance with rules: For official competitions under the rules of United World Wrestling, you need red or blue shoes depending on the corner called – or at least a neutral design that matches both corner colors. To be completely safe, keep the shoes discreet.
- Sole visibility: Light soles show wear and dirt faster. A darker sole stays visually fresh longer.
- Allow time: Due to a production time of up to 80 days, you should not order custom shoes just shortly before the season starts.
- Think through your design in advance: Feel free to try out several variants in the ASICS configurator before you decide – the order is excluded from returns as a custom product.
Choosing the right size
Important: The ASICS EX-EO come from the Japanese range and are sized in Japanese sizes – so smaller than European sizes. As a guideline:
| EU | US (Men) | JP (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 41 | 7.5 | 25 |
| 42 | 8.5 | 26 |
| 43 | 10 | 27 |
| 44 | 11 | 28 |
| 45 | 12 | 29 |
Our tip: order half a size to a full size larger than your usual EU size; thin competition socks should just fit. If you are between two sizes, choose the larger one. A detailed guide can be found in our guide to Japanese shoe sizes for wrestling shoes.
Care & durability
To keep your unique pair looking like new for a long time, a few simple habits are worthwhile: wear the shoes exclusively in the gym and never on the street, air them out after every training, wipe them with a damp cloth if needed, and never wash them in the machine. This way, the material and colors remain intact over many seasons.
How to order your custom ASICS EX-EO
The design process runs through the official ASICS configurator – we have compiled the steps from design to finished order in a detailed guide for you:
→ To the complete step-by-step ordering guide
There we explain how to use the configurator, save your design, and correctly insert the link when ordering. Be sure to read the instructions before ordering to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Shoe and singlet: the complete look
An individual wrestling shoe only unfolds its full effect in combination with the matching singlet. Coordinate your EX-EO color-wise with your wrestling singlet – whether in club design or as a personal statement. Especially in team matches, a consistent look from head to toe ensures a strong, professional appearance that opponents and spectators won’t forget quickly.
Conclusion: Your shoe, your appearance
The ASICS EX-EO in custom color combine Japanese top technology with your personal design. They offer excellent grip, low weight, and breathability – making you unmistakable on the mat. If you plan long-term and value a unique appearance, the custom color version is the perfect choice. If you need it faster, the finished blue/red version is the way to go.
Ready for your own look? Design your custom ASICS EX-EO now or browse the complete ASICS EX-EO collection.
FAQ: ASICS EX-EO in custom color
Are these original ASICS EX-EO wrestling shoes?
Yes. These are original ASICS EX-EO imported directly from Japan and come in the original packaging. Every pair is authentic.
How long does delivery take for the custom color version?
Since each pair is individually made to order in Japan, the delivery time is about 40 to 80 days. Be sure to plan this in if you have an upcoming competition.
Can I return the individually designed shoes?
No. Since these are custom-made according to your specifications, the custom color shoes are excluded from returns. The finished blue/red version, however, can be returned within 30 days.
What size should I choose for the ASICS EX-EO?
The EX-EO run in Japanese sizes and therefore are smaller. Order half to a full size larger than your usual EU size. For half sizes, choose the next larger size. Example: EU 42 corresponds approximately to JP 26 cm.
Can I have my name embroidered on the shoes?
Yes. With the custom color option, you can optionally add a name embroidery. This costs a small extra fee and makes the shoe a true one-of-a-kind.
Are the ASICS EX-EO approved for official competitions?
The EX-EO are classic wrestling shoes designed for competition. When choosing a color, keep in mind that you will compete in either red or blue depending on the match – a neutral or corner-color matching design is therefore practical. The exact requirements are specified by the respective competition regulations.
Do I need an insole for the ASICS EX-EO?
The EX-EO intentionally come without insoles for a direct mat feel. If you want more cushioning, you can add the separately available ASICS Performance Sockliner.
