Kispet (Kisbet)

Kispet is the fundamental garment of traditional Turkish wrestling, known as oil wrestling (yağlı güreş). Designed as a leather pant extending from the waist to just below the knees, it is buttonless and beltless. Kispet is specially tailored to provide flexibility and ease of movement without restricting the wrestler's agility.

History and Cultural Origins of Kispet

The origins of kispet trace back to Central Asia. In the nomadic lifestyle of the Turks, leather craftsmanship played a significant role, and warrior communities used durable and flexible leather garments that allowed for free movement. Considering that wrestling was often seen as preparation for battle, kispet appears to be closely linked to the attire of ancient warriors.

Two Oil Wrestlers Wrestling in Kispet (Adem Albayrak)

The relationship between Turks and wrestling extends from the Scythian (Iscit) and Saka Turks to the present day. Archaeological findings, such as wrestling figures carved on Scythian bone tools, provide evidence of the deep-rooted history of wrestling in Turkish culture.

Additionally, the Epic of Manas, believed to have originated in the 9th century, contains references to wrestlers wearing leather kispet. During the Ottoman era, Edirne became the most important center for oil wrestling, and Evliya Çelebi’s Seyahatname (Book of Travels) mentions wrestlers competing in kispet in the grand wrestling arenas of the time.

During the Ottoman period, tekkes (dervish lodges) and guilds were established for wrestlers, and the state supported training centers where wrestlers practiced. With the institutionalization of Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling, kispet gained a special status, and it became a tradition for every wrestler to wear a custom-made kispet tailored to their personal measurements.

Structure and Production of Kispet

Kispet is made from buffalo (manda), calf (dana), or young buffalo (malak) leather. While buffalo leather was traditionally used due to its durability, today, calf leather is preferred as it is lighter and more flexible. The production of kispet requires specialized craftsmanship and involves several stages, including cutting, molding, and sewing.

Key Components of Kispet

• Kasnak (Waistband): This is the section of the kispet that wraps around the wrestler’s waist. It is the thickest and firmest part, designed to prevent excessive gripping by opponents. A strong cord is threaded through the waistband to secure it tightly.

• Paça (Leg Cuffs): The bottom section of the kispet, extending just below the knees. If the leg openings are not tightly secured, the opponent may insert their fingers inside and gain an advantage during the match. Therefore, the leg cuffs must be firmly stitched.

• Paçabent (Leg Binding): A felt band placed between the leg and the paça. The leather is pulled over this felt layer and tightly fastened with a cord to ensure the kispet stays in place and allows the wrestler to move comfortably during the match.

Kispet Craftsmanship and Its Status Today

The making of kispet is an art that requires expertise. Traditionally passed down through the master-apprentice relationship, this craft is now sustained by only a few artisans. Kispet makers carefully select leather and employ intricate sewing techniques to ensure durability and comfort. However, the growing popularity of modern textiles and the decline of handcrafted products have put kispet craftsmanship at risk of disappearing. Today, only a few artisans continue this heritage, keeping alive a tradition that has been a vital part of Turkish wrestling for centuries.