What is the best brand of athletic tape?
Whether you’re a casual or competitive athlete, you already know the value of having the right equipment to keep you on top of your game. Athletic tape is a tool in your toolbox that you won’t want to overlook. When wrapped correctly, athletic tape provides support, increased circulation and can reduce swelling in sore joints
If you’re looking for a quality athletic tape, the KT Tape Original Cotton Elastic Kinesiology Therapeutic Sports Tape is an industry leader that helps to keep athletes on the move.
What to know before you buy athletic tape
Athletic tape comes in a few different styles. It’s important to pick the one that works best for your needs. For even more information, check out the full athletic tape buying guide on BestReviews.
Traditional athletic tape
Traditional tape immobilizes a weakened area of the body and is used as a prevention tactic by athletes. When tautly wrapped, traditional tape compresses bones and tissues and is effective in contact sports like boxing. It takes practice to master a wrap that lasts, but it’s worth the time to learn. Traditional tape is made to be removed and discarded after each athletic event or training. You’ll want to apply a pre-wrap as this tape isn’t recommended for direct contact with the skin.
Using a pre-wrap
Pre-wrap, also referred to as “underwrap,” is used under traditional tape. This type of tape helps to avoid skin irritation and slippage. Pre-wrap is sold as a stretchy, thin foam roll and costs similarly to athletic tape. Consider it a partner to protection and prevention when used with traditional tape.
Kinesiology tape
If improved circulation is what you are after, kinesiology tape provides flexibility and reduces inflammation that can limit your body’s movements. Kinesiology tape is waterproof and sweatproof and has a degree of elasticity, so your body motion is not inhibited. With this tape, a pre-wrap is not necessary as it is applied directly onto your skin. The wearable life of kinesiology tape is lengthier than traditional tape, lasting anywhere from one to five days.
Athletic tape features
Athletic tape colors
White is the traditional color of athletic tape, with black being a rare but alternate option. However, when it comes to kinesiology tape, you can expect to find a wide array of bright colors regardless of brand. If you want to step it up beyond colors, you’ll find some kinesiology tape that incorporates designs and patterns like stars and camo.
Athletic tape materials
Athletic tape’s material has an adhesive backing. Traditional athletic tape is usually cotton or a cotton blend, whereas kinesiology tape most often features synthetic material for optimum elasticity and repeated wear. If you are sensitive to adhesives, you’ll find options like latex-free, hypoallergenic, or medical-grade materials.
Athletic tape cut method
When it’s time to remove your athletic tape, either from the roll or your body, you have a couple of options. Standard athletic and kinesiology tape require scissors, as the material’s weave isn’t designed to rip apart easily. However, some types of athletic tape offer an easy-rip feature or come pre-cut to shape to a particular area of the body. You’ll also find individual strips that may overlap for simpler application and removal.
Athletic tape cost
Athletic tape generally costs between $10 and $20, with the least expensive options offering a single roll of tape, while the higher end usually involves a multi-pack option. The value pack may include multiple tape sizes and an instruction booklet.
Athletic tape FAQs
How can I make my athletic tape stick better?
A. Before applying any athletic tape, begin by prepping your skin with rubbing alcohol. This will remove unseen dirt and oils, allowing for a stronger bond on your skin. Once the area is clean, you may apply the tape of your choice.
What is the difference between kinesiology tape and athletic tape?
A. Athletic tape will limit your motion, and kinesiology tape facilitates it while preventing pains or spasms. Kinesiology tape is flexible and will move when you move, while athletic tape lacks flexibility. The restrictive nature of athletic tape serves to decrease circulation; kinesiology tape promotes it.
Which athletic tape should I get?
Best of the best athletic tape
KT Tape Original Cotton Elastic Kinesiology Therapeutic Sports Tape: available at Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Our take: KT Tape is a trusted brand and is the go-to for athletes looking for added support or pain relief.
What we like: This athletic tape is waterproof and lasts for days. It’s breathable and sweatproof, thanks to its moisture-wicking properties. Comes in a variety of colors.
What we dislike: Typically, KT tape is up to three times more expensive per roll than other athletic tapes.
Best bang for your buck athletic tape
Hampton Adams White Athletic Sports Tape: available at Amazon
Our take: Medical trainers and athletes alike find this tape to be a top choice for support.
What we like: The flexible adhesive leaves no sticky residue and works well for those who need wrist support. It tears easily by hand and eliminates the need for scissors.
What we dislike: When ripped into smaller pieces, it is not as effective.
Honorable mention athletic tape
RockTape Original 2-Inch Kinesiology Tape: available at Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Our take: Moisture-repelling RockTape is made safe for all skin types and comes in fun designs.
What we like: Ideal for sensitive skin, this tape is hypoallergenic and latex-free. It can be used in harsh, wet conditions such as swimming and surfing. Pre-cut strips are easy to use.
What we dislike: The longevity of the tape is disappointing per some consumer feedback.
Honorable mention athletic tape
Sparthos Tape Kinesiology Tape: available at Amazon
Our take: Simple to use, this kinesiology tape comes with a free “how-to” guide for best results.
What we like: With 16 unique color options, this tape allows you to express your personality. It is tough, long-lasting and will stay strong during strenuous workouts. It has a 100% money-back guarantee.
What we dislike: Some consumers have reported skin reactions and itchiness.
Honorable mention athletic tape
SB SOX Kinesiology Tape: available at Amazon
Our take: This colorful athletic tape is skin-friendly and comfortably adjusts to your body while providing compression support.
What we like: The lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking material makes this one another top choice. It comes with a tip guide for those with sensitive skin.
What we dislike: Some consumers report the adhesive is too strong, making it a challenge to remove.
Rachel Pintarelli is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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