Before jumping into the ring, you need to wrap your wrists for boxing. However, many boxers don’t know how to wrap wrists for boxing. Wrist wraps are essential since they protect tendons and muscles from injury.
To play comfortably and win the match, you have to wrap your wrists properly. For more details about boxing wrist wraps, continue browsing to learn how to wrap wrists before a boxing match or training session.
Wrist Wrapping for Boxing
Before boxing, you need to protect your wrist with wraps. However, many boxers don’t know how to wrap their wrists for boxing in the right way. So, most of the time, they get hurt, or the wrists come off.
First of all, a wrist wrap is a piece of clothing made of cotton or a combination of other materials. It is a must in boxing to protect yourself and make the opponent feel more pain. While boxing is an intense sport that requires a lot of commitment and strength, you need to throw more punches to defeat your opponent.
This is where wrist wrapping for boxing comes in. Wrist wraps help protect your muscles and aid in defeating your counterpart. However, as much as there is an array of boxing wraps on the market, not all are equal. They differ in many ways, such as comfort and breathability, to name a few.
By now, you have a clear idea of what wrist wraps are. So, why is it essential to wrap your wrists before getting into the ring.
Why You Should Wrap Your Wrists for Boxing
You cannot get into the ring without wrist wraps. Here are the main reasons you need to wrap your wrists before boxing.
Offers Maximum Protection
The primary purpose of wrist wraps is to protect a fighter’s hand. Typically, hands contain delicate parts such as joints and bones. These parts are prone to injury in case of hard punches.
For this reason, wrist wraps aid in protecting them and the entire hand. Unfortunately, many believe that wrist wraps protect only the knuckles, but this isn’t the case.
Supports the Hands
The second advantage of wearing wrist wraps is that they offer support. As mentioned earlier, hands are delicate because they contain bones and joints. However, wraps will hold loose joints and bones since they are movable.
Also, the shock will be even in the entire body. A plus is that wraps will also prevent further fracture since not using them may make the bones and joints move in different directions.
Comfortable Wearing Experience
To fight effectively, you need to have courage and energy. But did you know that you also need a comfortable experience? You might be wondering where this comes from, But boy! A wrist wrap.
Yes, wrist wraps under the gloves will help you feel comfortable and boost your energy. You will also get a sense of security knowing that you can punch with full force and less pain.
Sweat Free
Your hands are the most powerful weapons in boxing. But how does it feel fighting with sweat all over your hands? First, of course, it feels uncomfortable. One main benefit of wrist wraps is that they have a moisture-wicking material. The gloves also take in moisture preventing your hands from sweating. As a result, you end up fighting your opponent with ease.
How to Wrap Wrists for Boxing
Before getting into the ring, fighters need to wrap their wrists. Yes, apart from the gloves, they help protect the hands from fractures. However, not everyone knows how to do this properly. Follow these boxing wraps tutorials to throw more punches and emerge a winner.
Select the Right Wrapping Method
The first important step on how to wrap hands is to select the right wrap and technique. This is essential because different wraps have different features, and so does the application method.
The second option in how to wrap boxing wraps is choosing the right piece. Different wraps vary in different things, such as size and the type of boxing. So, selecting the one that fits you best is vital for the game. While doing this, consider these options.
The first option is cotton wraps. These wraps are best for training. On top of that, they are available in junior and adult lengths. Also, you don’t need to worry about safety since they have Velcro at the end.
Second on the list is Mexican wraps. These wraps are similar to cotton wraps. However, they contain woven elastic fibers. These fibers are essential to help mold the hands. On the flip side, they won’t last for a long time since the elastic easily gets won out.
Apart from cotton and Mexican wraps, you will meet gel; They are similar to normal gloves since they slip on hands. Nonetheless, you will have to spend more dollars since they are more expensive than cotton or Mexican wraps. Moreover, as much as they slip, you won’t get maximum support hence unsuitable for professional boxers.
Closing the list are competition wraps which contain gauze and tape. They are unique among the mentioned wraps because they are not reusable. For this reason, they are suitable for training sessions rather than the real tournament. However, since these wraps aren’t reusable, they aren’t practical during regular training.
Use the Right Tension While Wrapping
Another step on how to wrap your hands for boxing is using the right tension. Hand wraps provide stability for the hand and wrist, but they can cut off circulation if they’re too tight. So again, you might have to practice a few times before getting the tension right.
Avoid Wrap Wrinkles
Being a boxer means putting up with wrinkles and lumps. These two problems are uncomfortable since they prevent the wrap from protecting the fine bones in your hands and stabilizing your wrists.
Keep your Wrists Straight During Wrapping
Wraps are essential for stability, but they cant be stable when they are bending. Therefore, keep your wrists straight during the entire process.
Wind the Wrap
After doing all that, you need to wind the wrapping session. To do this:
Stretch your hands: To wind up the wrap, you need to stretch out the hands. Ensure that you spread your fingers far apart, and don’t forget to flex the muscles. Since the boxing wrap supports the whole hands, don’t kick off by trying all the movements in boxing.
Put hands in the hole- at the end of the wrap: The end of the wrap is at the end of the Velcro. While doing this, ensure that the inner side is against your hands. If you do the opposite, it will not fasten properly. The good thing is that most wraps have printed tags to help you know how to tie them properly.
Wrap your wrist: To wrap the wrist, wind around the wrist 3 to 4 times. However, this depends on the size of the hands and the stability. Finish wrapping at the inner part of the wrist. After you have done this, ensure that you achieve a flat lap. Also, it should overlap with each turn. Finally, make proper adjustments if you want to add or reduce the length.
Wrap your hand: Wrap around the backside of your hand; above your thumb, then across your palm. Do this three times again, ending with the wrap on the inside of your hand.
Wrap your thumb: After the hands, don’t forget the thumbs. First, wrap your wrist, finishing with the wrap near your thumb. Next, wind the wrap from the bottom of your thumb toward the top, then back to the bottom, then wrap your wrist again.
Wrap your fingers: Another step on how to wrap your wrists is to go for the fingers. To wrap the fingers well, start from the inside of the wrist, then wind the wrap to cover the base fingers. Next, wrap your wrist from the inside on top of the hand and between the pinky and ring finger.
Again, wind it back from the inside, the top of the hand, and between the ring and middle finger. Continue winding over the top of the hand, between the middle and index finger, and finish in the wrist.
Wrap your hand again: Wrap the wrist, then diagonally from the inside going outside your hand. Keep on wrapping your palm and above the thumb. Go on until you get the desired length, then finish with one last wrap around your wrist.
Secure the wrap: Velcro the wrap to put it in the right spot. Try throwing a few punches to rule out if it is comfortable. If you find it too tight or loose, redo the process.
Repeat with the other hand: Wrapping your own hands can be difficult, especially if you use a non-dominant hand, but you’ll master it after some practice. If you find the whole process difficult, don’t struggle alone. Instead, seek help from your coach or a partner.
What Makes for a Great Pair of Boxing Hand Wraps?
To fight effectively without any difficulties, you need a good pair of hand bandage wraps. While there are different hand wraps, you need to be keen when selecting a good quality. But what makes a great pair of boxing hand wraps? Find out below.
Good Quality Material
The first aspect to help you select the best wrist wrap is good quality material. Usually, different wrist wraps contain different materials. For example, most of them contain either 100% cotton material or materials like cotton-elastane or nylon-polyester.
All these combinations of fabric are good when it comes to wrists wraps. They provide outstanding durability and comfort against your skin due to their soft texture. Nonetheless, they are durable. In simple terms, opt for wrist wraps with reinforced stitching since they will last for a long time.
Breathability
Second on the list is breathability. Yes, a good hand wrap should contain breathable material. Breathability is key since you will get to sweat from wearing wraps under normal boxing hand gloves. Therefore, go for wrist wraps that allow free circulation of air to keep your hands cool and dry.
A plus about breathable wrist wraps is that they dry quicker, reducing the onset of bacteria and odor buildup. In addition, if you are lucky enough, you will get wraps that have passed through antimicrobial treatment. This is essential, especially if you wish to wash the wrist wraps regularly.
Stretchability
To put on boxing wrist wraps, the materials need to stretch enough. Stretchability ensures that the wrap is enough and secures the wrists. Therefore, you have to watch out for the material before putting it on. If it does not stretch enough, you will get open areas which will make the wrap unravel during the session.
However, today most manufacturers are trying to sort out this issue by making wrist wraps with a good combination of materials to provide sufficient stretchability. For instance, they can combine materials such as cotton and elastane, nylon and polyester, or any other.
At this point, you have a good understanding of what makes a good wrist wrap. But still, that’s not enough. There are some factors that you need to consider before buying them. Check out below.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Boxing Handwraps
These factors will help you make an informed buying decision for the best boxing hand tape. You will end up fighting like a pro.
Length
The first key thing to put in mind is length. Since there are different lengths, it all depends entirely upon the size you choose. The maximum size you will find in the market is usually around 180-inches (457.2 centimeters).
This is a standard size for a boxer of any skill level. Furthermore, it will allow you to wrap around your wrists regardless of the method. It also provides support, enhancing wrist stability to minimize the risk of injury.
Closure system
Most, if not all, boxing wrist wraps come with a velcro-based hook and loop closing system. This system will allow you to open and close the wraps with just one hand. In addition, the Velcro will keep the wrap in position, ensuring it does open during a match or a training session.
Type
Another key aspect to consider in a hand tape for boxing is the type. Again, there are different types of wraps on the market. If this case, you want wrist protection. If so, there are some quick options available.
These options have a modern style and feature gel-based padding to provide protection. Wearing these wraps is also very easy and quick, as you only need to slide them in your hand and close the wrist strap, taking only a few seconds to complete.
The wrist strap is kept extra-long, usually measuring around 36-inches (91.4 centimeters), and wrapping it around your wrists provides maximum stability during practice sessions and matches, helping prevent injuries.
Machine Washable
Another aspect to consider is if they are machine washable. Of course, you will not have all the time to wash your wrist wraps by hand. You need to wear wrist wraps under boxing gloves before any match according to boxing rules.
When you do that, the wraps will absorb the sweat hence a great advantage to the gloves since they will be sweat-free. However, the wraps will have moisture; hence they will need frequent washing. This can be hectic, especially if you have one pair. To sort this issue out, get wraps that are machine washable.
With that in mind, let’s jump into the important tips to help you take care of your wrist wraps and make them last longer.
How to Take Care of Your Wrist Wraps
Boxing wrist wraps are your source of defense, and caring for them will keep them fresh and last longer. Here are a few tricks on how to take care of your wrist wraps.
Use Fresh Wraps
Taking care of your wrist wraps is about using fresh Wraps. After that, it comes down to regular washing. It’s best practice to wash your wraps after every use. If you are tied up or unable to wash, at least clean them fully every 3 – 5 uses. While cleaning them, rinse or disinfect them as added protection against bacteria growth.
Use Deodorizer Spray
As mentioned above, you can use disinfectants to help get rid of bacteria. But you can also use a deodorizer. All you need is to pray inside the wraps and gloves after every session. Indeed, there is no need to clean your wrapping tape for boxing alone since they go hand in hand.
Don’t worry about getting a bottle since the best deodorizers and disinfectants on the market are made specifically for boxing gloves and wraps. Only a quick spritz of any disinfectant should be enough to knock out bacteria.
Alternatively, you can sprinkle a pinch of baking soda into each glove, letting them sit overnight. Remember to shake out any remaining baking soda before putting it on.
Have Several Pairs
You need to have more than one wrap and gloves as a boxer. As much as washing is essential, have one in your bag for backup. Once the elastic or Velcro wears out or develops any rips and tears, it’s time to replace your wraps.
Typically, heavy boxing gloves and wraps can last 1-2 years, depending on the quality of the glove and the level of training. However, if you start to feel more impact on your knuckles, you should consider replacing them to avoid hand injury. Also, if they start to smell, that’s another sign it’s time for an upgrade.
Caring for your hand wraps and boxing gloves will keep them fresher longer. It’s easy to add some simple cleaning steps to your post-workout routine. It’s a small-time investment to protect your vital pieces of boxing equipment!
Washing Wrist Wraps by Hand
Washing wraps by hand is a common method that many people know and use. However, it can be a labor-intensive way, but it will usually produce the best results. Follow these seven steps to make sure you do it right.
- First, you need to gather the tools to prepare for washing. Such tools include laundry detergent, a clean cloth, a colander, and a large bowl.
- Then, fill the bowl with lukewarm water and add powdered detergents suitable for the wraps. It is often recommended for artificial materials since it removes stains and dirt with a lower chance of shrinking the fabric of the wraps.
- Mix the detergent in warm water and make sure that it fully dissolves.
- Rub the cleaning solution on the wrist wraps using a clean cloth. A clean cloth is essential since it will help you avoid potentially harsh chemicals that would damage your hands.
- Properly rinse the wrist wraps to remove any remaining residue that could, later on, irritate your skin.
- Rinse the excess water out of the wraps. But make sure that you avoid wringing or twisting while squeezing the water out as it will not damage the wraps. Additionally, twisting can pull the fibers out of the fabric and even weaken the support of the wraps.
- Dry your wraps outside in the shade, ensuring they are not in direct sun. This will shrink the materials of your wrist wraps.
Washing Wrist Wraps in a Washing Machine
You can wash your wrist wraps in a washing machine, apart from your hands. To wash effectively in the washing machine;
- If your wraps have Velcro, make sure you secure them before washing to avoid damage to the fabric. If you don’t, the Velcro may catch on itself, stretching the wrap’s fabric and destroying the support structure of the wraps.
- Read all labels to ensure that the wrist wraps are safely washed in the machine. The label may provide instructions that indicate the machine temperature and the cycle setting.
- Wash the wrist wraps in warm water. You can use suitable powdered detergents with warm water.
- Use mild detergent because it is safe to use on the wrist wraps’ synthetic materials. Strong detergents or other washing chemicals may harm the components of the wraps. This may impact the effectiveness of the wrist wraps.
- Dry them in the dryer. But before doing so, check your drying instructions and make sure that they can dry up in your laundry dryer.
- Remember that some fabric may shrink using the laundry dryer. So you may consider air-drying the wrist wraps if you want to prevent shrinkage and creases in the fabric.
A good pair of wrist wraps usually lasts for at least a year. However, it can last longer depending on how often you use them. This mostly applies if you are training three or five times a week and serious about boxing.
Therefore, it is vital to get a good quality pair of wraps that will last you a whole year. As a rule, it is definitely worth the money, and more importantly, it’s worth the protection and support.
Still, on durability, avoid leaving them inside your boxing gloves or gym bag after a training session. They will get wet due to sweat and build dirt and bacteria. For better results, hang the boxing tape for hands on a door hook.
Doing this will air them out so that they won’t stink and won’t be damp the next time you use them. Besides that, wash the wraps regularly after each or every few uses to increase longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrist Wraps
Q: Is it necessary to wear boxing wrist wraps under boxing gloves?
A: Yes, you need to wrap your hands for boxing under gloves. This is vital because the hands sweat, and the wraps absorb the moisture.
Also, they will use the cushioning they can get as you throw high-impact punches. Besides that, wrist wraps provide additional support and stability to your wrists, minimizing the risk of injury.
Q: Can you re-use boxing wrist wraps?
A: Yes, you can re-use your boxing wrist wraps. On the contrary, ensure that you wash them regularly to remove dirt and prevent bacteria and odor buildup.
Q: How tight should my wrist wraps be?
A: Wrist wraps are the right tools to help you make hard punches. However, they don’t need to be too tight. Ensure that they are not too loose or not too tight to comfortably make a fist. This will prevent them from moving the position as you make a fist. If you notice that it is cutting off blood circulation, then it’s too tight, so loosen it.
That’s a Wrap!
Wrist wraps are among the top-most important pieces of equipment for every boxer or MMA fighter. They are essential regardless of whether you are a beginner or an experienced professional.
Another important rule is to put on a wrist wrap under your boxing gloves to prevent pain and injury. Furthermore, wrist wraps protect the fragile bones in your boxing hands, support your wrists and protect your skin from abrasion and cuts.
For this reason, you need utmost safety during a training or match. In addition, you must invest in high-quality wraps to punch harder while minimizing pain and injuries.