How many times have we heard that saying... "You get what you pay for" but really...how accurate is it? To add to that let's use a play on words and say "no two sets of gear are created equal".
Perhaps that is more accurate of a statement.
Being in the industry for over a decade, I've seen a lot of gear. Some made by me and some made by others. Now...I'm not going to put myself on a pedestal and put anyone else down. I'm not that type of businessman. It's just not my thing.
Each designer has their own way of doing things but let's face it, your gear is important. They say clothes make the man but in wrestling....gear makes the Champion. Great looking and fitting gear can take you to new heights in your career. And let's face it...gear ain't cheap! You want it to last.
Expecting a set of gear to last you a lifetime is not realistic but if it's constructed well with quality materials AND you take care of it properly (see my previous post on gear care) you can expect to have it last you for QUITE a while.
So...nice words but what should you look for? In my opinion here are some things to consider:
Fabrics
This is a biggy! So many times I've seen gear made from fabric you could spit through. When you are wearing gear as tight as this stuff is worn you want something with body to it and great stretch. You don't want someone to be able to take inventory through your gear if you catch my drift.
Not only does it have to have weight but the colouring needs to be stable. I've seen so many pieces of gear that have come to me for repair that the colour has washed out, been sweated out or simply rubbed off in one or two washings. An example...Beware of some of the lightweight metallics in particular. A lot have so little finish on them that the colour almost wears off in your hands.
Fit
This is another important area. They don't call them "tights" for nothing. If they don't fit properly you may as well call them "looses". Nothing is worse than working your tail off in the gym, sweating for hours in the ring to get yourself ready...and come out with sloppy looking gear. Gear should FIT...not look like you are wearing a diaper. Ensure that accurate measurements are taken and asked for when getting your gear made. Those few minutes will save you a lot of "droopy moments"
Construction
This...is the most important factor in my book. I've seen so much gear out there that screams "look what my mom made for me". I've seen so many pieces that have open seams, loose seams, sloppy looking appliques or designs that are hung on by a thread (pardon the pun) or even just stuck on with glue.
In my books you are paying top dollar for your gear and it should look professional inside and out. I had it engrained into me from a wee age...it has to look as good on the inside as it does on the outside and it is SO true!
In my humble opinion, seams should not be zigzagged or sewn strictly on a home sewing machine. They simply don't have the stretch and security necessary to last the test of time. Those seams will pop and the last thing you want in the middle of a match is to have a "wardrobe malfunction" Just ask Janet Jackson!
Seams should be sewn and finished with an overlock machine or otherwise known as a serger. Any edges such as leg openings, armhole or necklines should be finished with a coverstitch. It gives a professional finish that is neat, flat and secure. Not only do these machines makes a secure construction but they look clean and professional as well.
So, now that I've chewed your ear off am I saying you should come to me for all your gear needs? Well I would be happy to help you out but that's not a realistic expectation. Just be an informed consumer. Ask questions. You are spending hard earned money. Make sure you get your money's worth otherwise you might not "get what you pay for"
If you have any questions or want some input on an upcoming design, I am here to help. Let me help make you look like a Champion!
