Sports tape comes in a range of styles, each designed for specific applications, levels of support, and sports. Types of tape used by athletes includes Zinc Oxide, EAB, Cohesive, Rip-Light, Kinesiology, Finger Tape and Underwrap. Below is a breakdown of the most common types of sports tape and what they are best used for.
Zinc Oxide Sports Tape
Often called athletic tape, zinc oxide tape is a rigid, non-stretch tape made from cotton or synthetic materials. It provides firm support to joints such as ankles, wrists, fingers, and thumbs. It’s widely used in football, basketball, rugby, and other sports where joints need to be restricted to prevent excessive movement or to help stabilise an existing injury.
Best for:
- Strong joint support
- Limiting movement during rehab
- Finger, ankle, and wrist stability
Kinesiology Tape
Kinesiology tape or K-Tape is an elastic, stretchy tape designed to mimic the natural movement of skin. Unlike rigid tape, it allows full range of motion while assisting muscle activation, reducing strain, and improving proprioception. Kinesiology Tape often comes in different colours and is ultra-light and breathable, helping reduce irritation when worn under clothing.
Best for:
- Muscle support without restricting movement
- Reducing pain and swelling
- Helping with posture or technique correction
Cohesive Tape
Cohesive tape (also known as self-adhesive tape) sticks to itself rather than the skin. This makes it easy to apply, remove, and reposition without discomfort especially useful for hairy areas or quick sideline use.
Best for:
- Securing bandages or pads
- Light joint support
- Quick re-taping in team sports
EAB (Elastic Adhesive Bandage)
Elastic adhesive bandage is a stretchy, supportive tape that conforms to the body. It offers both compression and support, making it ideal for dynamic areas such as calves, thighs, or shoulders. EAB is often used as an anchor layer for stronger rigid tapes or to support muscles during sport, as it expands with movement rather than restricting it.
Best for:
- Compression
- Anchoring rigid tape
- Muscle support during activity
Finger Tape
Finger tape is a narrower version of zinc oxide tape, designed specifically for small joints. It stabilises and protects fingers and thumbs during high-impact or grip-based sports.
Common uses:
- Rugby, judo, BJJ, climbing, goalkeeping
- Protecting joints from sprains or hyperextension
- Supporting injured fingers during play
Light Fix Tape (Rip-Light)
Light Fix Tape is a flexible, adhesive dressing often used as a base layer before applying supporting tape. It’s especially useful for sensitive areas where athletes may experience irritation from rigid adhesives.
For example, patellofemoral taping techniques often begin with a light, skin-friendly layer before the main structural tape is applied.
Best for:
- A comfortable base layer
- Securing padding or dressings
- Reducing skin irritation from stronger adhesives
Surgical Tape
Surgical tape is used to secure dressings, bandages, or medical pads in place. Although not designed for heavy support or joint stabilisation, it’s a key part of first aid and injury management.
Best for:
- Holding dressings on wounds
- Securing padding
- Sensitive skin applications
Underwrap
Underwrap is a soft, foam-based tape applied underneath adhesive sports tapes. It prevents chafing, irritation, and discomfort—especially during long training sessions or repeated taping.
Best for:
- Protecting skin from adhesive
- Providing a smooth, comfortable taping base
- Use with zinc oxide tape or EAB
So, Which Sports Tape Is Best?
There’s no single “best” sports tape—each type is designed for a specific purpose.
- Zinc oxide: maximum support
- K-Tape: movement-friendly muscle support
- EAB: compression + flexibility
- Cohesive: quick, comfortable wrapping
- Finger tape: small-joint protection
- Underwrap: skin protection
Choosing the right tape depends on the injury, the sport, and the level of support required. To learn practical taping methods, view the sports taping tutorials at SportsInjuryClinic.net.
