Our Story

Our Story: Built for Her — Yes! Athletics

At Yes! Athletics, we’re redefining what it means to show up, suit up, and step onto the mat with confidence. We were the first brand to create wrestling shoes specifically designed for female athletes — not just smaller versions of men’s shoes, but performance footwear engineered on a woman’s last to fit her feet, her body, and her movement.

Our journey began with a simple but powerful question:
Why are girls wrestling in boys’ shoes?

From that moment, Yes! Athletics was born — a company committed to empowering female wrestlers and combat sport athletes through gear made to fit, function, and inspire. Every product we create — from women’s wrestling shoes to performance apparel, sports bras, and team uniforms — is designed with female athletes in mind.


Our Mission

We exist to give girls and women in wrestling the gear they deserve — equipment that fits right, performs hard, and looks as fierce as they are. We’re here to support the growing movement of girls in wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and combat sports, one confident step at a time.


What Makes Us Different

  • Designed for Women, Not Downsized for Men
    Our wrestling shoes are built on a woman’s anatomical last, ensuring the right fit in the heel, arch, and toe box. The result? Better comfort, control, and performance on the mat.

  • Girls’ Sizes. Women’s Power.
    From youth to elite competitors, we offer girls’ wrestling shoes in extended size ranges, so every athlete — no matter her age — can find the perfect fit.

  • Performance + Style
    We believe female athletes shouldn’t have to choose between function and fashion. That’s why our products feature eye-catching designs, vibrant colors, and durable, breathable materials that perform under pressure.

  • Pioneers in Women’s Wrestling Gear
    When others ignored the market, we listened. As the first brand dedicated to female wrestling shoes, Yes! Athletics continues to lead the charge in female-focused design and innovation.

  • Supporting the Movement
    We’re not just a brand — we’re part of the growing girls’ wrestling community. Through partnerships, sponsorships, and campaigns like #GetTheGirlsCovered, we advocate for equality, inclusion, and recognition in combat sports.


Join the Yes! Movement

From the first whistle to the final pin, we’re here to help female wrestlers train harder, compete stronger, and feel unstoppable.
Say YES! to performance. YES! to confidence. YES! to her..

CEO, Deb North and daughters

Founder, Deb North

Yes! Athletics CEO Deb North

Deb North is no stranger to assuming non-traditional roles. She became both Mom and Dad when she was widowed in 2010 with three daughters aged 8, 3 and 4 months old.   She assumed the roles with great passion, supporting the girls in many various sports throughout the years. Grace is currently studying pre-health care at Missouri State and  was   college track athlete before she was sidelined with an injury. Rae does cheer, wrestling and runs track. Annie plays softball, wrestles, throws the shot put and throws the turbo javelin in track and field. Deb has owned the successful executive search firm True North Consulting since 2010. She launched YES! Athletics in 2019 to support girls in non-traditional sport.