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Tape is one of those things that tends to live permanently in a gymnast’s bag. Whether it’s being used for wrist support, protecting a sore finger, covering a vulnerable spot on the hand, or helping manage a rip, having the right type of tape on hand can make a big difference.

But not all tape is designed to do the same thing. From traditional athletic tape to kinesiology tape, pre-wrap, and purpose-built hand protection, choosing the right option starts with knowing what you need it to do.

Traditional Athletic Tape: Reliable Support and Protection

Traditional athletic tape is a gym bag staple for a reason. It provides firm support and can be used for everything from taping wrists and fingers to reinforcing areas of the hand that are prone to irritation or tearing.

We carry several options, so you can choose the level and style that works best for your training needs.

• Economy Trainer's Tape is a budget-friendly option for gyms, teams, and athletes who go through a lot of tape. It offers the strength and conformability you need for everyday athletic taping.
• Premium Trainer's Tape offers a higher-quality cotton backcloth with a strong adhesive and easy-tear design, making it a great choice when you want a more premium taping experience.
• Eco-Flex Stretch Tape provides support and adherence with a flexible, non-woven construction. It can also be used as underwrap or for wound dressing, making it a versatile addition to your training supplies.

Kinesiology Tape: Flexible Support That Moves With You

Traditional athletic tape is designed to provide firm support, while kinesiology tape offers a different approach. Its stretchy construction allows it to move with your body while providing support for muscles and joints. 

Thera-Band Kinesiology Tape features stretch indicators designed to help athletes apply the tape with the proper amount of tension, which can be especially helpful if you're new to kinesiology tape.

Targeted Protection for Fingers and Thumbs

Sometimes you don't need to tape your entire hand. You just need to protect one particular spot.

WOD & DONE Finger Protection Tape comes in convenient pre-cut strips designed for targeted protection on individual fingers, hands, feet, or toes. It's useful for protecting calluses and areas prone to friction without the hassle of cutting and wrapping a full roll of tape.

Their Thumb Protection Tape Strips are specifically designed for the thumb, with a thin, flexible kinesiology-style material that allows for a full range of motion. The pre-cut design means there's no measuring or cutting required.

Rip Guards: Extra Coverage for Your Hands

For athletes who need more coverage than traditional tape can provide, WOD & DONE Rip Guards offer a quick, ready-to-use option. Available in 2- and 3-hole versions, the pre-cut hand protection provides coverage underneath grips while allowing the hand to move naturally.

Rip Guards can be especially helpful during heavy training or while protecting healing skin. They are also an option for beginners who aren't ready for traditional grips yet.

Pre-Wrap: The Layer Between Your Skin and Tape

If you've ever had athletic tape pull at your skin, you already know why pre-wrap exists.

Pre-wrap, also called underwrap, creates a soft layer between your skin and athletic tape to help reduce irritation and chafing. It's especially useful when you're taping repeatedly or need extra comfort underneath a wrist or joint wrap. Gymnasts can also use it underneath grip wrist cuffs in place of traditional wristbands.

So, Which One Do You Need?

The right choice depends on what you're trying to accomplish:

• Need firm support or traditional taping? Start with athletic tape.
• Want flexible support that moves with you? Try kinesiology tape.
• Protecting a specific finger or thumb? Pre-cut protection makes it easy.
• Need extra coverage across your hand? Rip Guards offer a quick, convenient option.
• Need a comfortable layer underneath athletic tape? Grab some pre-wrap.

You don't necessarily have to choose just one. Many gymnasts keep several types of tape and hand protection in their bags so they're prepared for whatever training throws their way.

Explore our full selection of Athletic Tape and Hand Protection to find the options that fit your training needs.