Top Prewrap Products in 2023 Find the Best Near YouTop Prewrap Products in 2023 Find the Best Near You
Finding McDavid Athletic Tape and Underwrap Locally
McDavid is one of the most popular and trusted brands when it comes to athletic tape, prewrap, and underwrap. Many athletes swear by McDavid’s durability and grip. So where can you find their products locally?
Your best bet is to check sporting goods stores in your area. Major chains like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Academy Sports, and Modell’s are likely to carry a selection of McDavid prewrap, athletic tape, and underwrap. You’ll often find McDavid displayed alongside other top brands like Mueller and Johnson & Johnson. Go prepared with the specific type you need – for example, rigid Sports Tape or flexible All Purpose Athletic Tape. Stores may also stock McDavid underwrap, which helps grip tape stay put. Don’t be afraid to ask for help finding exactly what you want.
Local independent sporting goods shops can be another good place to find McDavid. These specialty retailers cater to serious athletes and teams. So they’re likely to understand the difference between various tapes, wraps, and braces. Be sure to call ahead to check their stock. Some smaller stores may need to special order certain items.
It’s also worth checking pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid. Their first aid sections will often have McDavid flexible tape alongside generics. This can work in a pinch or for general use. But selection is more limited than dedicated sporting goods stores.
With some searching, you should be able to find the specific type of McDavid prewrap, athletic tape, or underwrap you need locally. Supporting small businesses while getting products immediately is a win-win. Just be prepared to call around and visit a few places to find the right supply.
Benefits of Prewrap for Sports
Prewrap is an essential item for many athletes. This thin, stretchy underwrap helps provide grip and protection when worn under tape or braces. Using quality prewrap offers key benefits for sports performance and safety.
Prewrap creates a protective barrier between skin and tape or braces. The soft, smooth fabric helps prevent irritation, blisters, and chafing. Prewrap allows tape to be removed painlessly by keeping it from sticking directly to skin and hair. The cushioning of prewrap also helps absorb shock and impact.
It provides enhanced grip and compression. Prewrap gives tape and braces something to adhere to for a tight wrap. The light stretch adds stable compression to help support muscles and joints. This improves proprioception and blood flow. The grip of prewrap also minimizes slipping of tape and braces during competition and training.
Moisture-wicking prewrap keeps skin dryer and cooler. Sweat-wicking fabrics prevent moisture buildup that could cause tape to loosen. Breathable prewrap helps avoid overheating and discomfort. Antimicrobial prewrap also inhibits odor and bacterial growth.
Using prewrap properly can extend the life of tape. The protection prewrap offers allows tape to be reused for multiple practices or games. Less direct contact with skin and uniforms preserves tape adhesive. Prewrap also makes removal easier to avoid damaging tape.
Quality prewrap like McDavid provides durable construction for all sports. It stands up to wear and tear without tearing or excess pilling. Stretchy yet supportive prewrap conforms well to different body parts. And soft, breathable fabrics offer next-to-skin comfort.
So take advantage of the many benefits prewrap offers under athletic tape and braces. It’s an essential item that provides protection, grip, and performance enhancement during training, competition, and recovery. Investing in premium prewrap helps maximize its advantages.
Key Features to Look for When Buying Prewrap
With many prewrap options on the market, it’s important to understand the key features that make it effective for athletic use. Considering these factors will help you choose high quality prewrap for the best performance and protection.
Stretch and compression – Good prewrap has about 10-15% stretch to provide just the right amount of compression. It should offer support without constricting circulation. The fabric shouldn’t lose its stretch and become loose with wear.
Breathability – Prewrap needs to wick sweat and allow airflow next to the skin. Look for moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabrics. Avoid non-breathable materials that trap heat and sweat.
Durability – Prewrap must stand up to sports use without excessive tearing, fraying or pilling. Abrasion-resistant fabric maintains integrity. Stretch retention prevents the wrap from getting loose.
Grip – The ideal grip comes from soft, barely tacky fabric that adhesive sticks to. But prewrap shouldn’t be so sticky it catches on clothing or itself. The grip should last through multiple uses.
Comfort – Smooth, soft prewrap feels great against skin. Opt for seamless prewrap when possible to prevent chafing. Flatlocked or bias-cut seams are otherwise preferred. The fabric itself should feel gentle without roughness.
Convenience – Self-adhering prewrap saves time taping. Some also tear cleanly without scissors. Convenient dispensers allow quick and easy wrapping. Portability is a plus for on-the-go use.
The best prewrap combines the ideal blend of stretch, breathability, and grip. It should provide just the right compression while wicking moisture to keep skin comfortable and tape secure. Considering these performance factors helps find high quality prewrap to meet your athletic needs.
Overview of Top Brands for Prewrap and Athletic Tape
To ensure a successful shopping trip, it’s advisable to know exactly what you need. Are you looking for rigid Sports Tape or flexible All Purpose Athletic Tape? Do you require underwrap to enhance tape adhesion? Being specific about your requirements can streamline your search and help store associates assist you more effectively.
Independent Sporting Goods Shops: A Specialized Alternative
Local independent sporting goods stores can be treasure troves for athletes seeking specific products. These specialty retailers often cater to serious athletes and teams, meaning they’re likely to have a deep understanding of various tapes, wraps, and braces. However, due to their smaller size, it’s wise to call ahead and check their stock. Some may need to special order certain items, but the personalized service can be worth the extra effort.
Pharmacies: A Convenient Option
For those in need of a quick fix or general-use tape, pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid can be surprisingly helpful. While their selection may be more limited compared to dedicated sporting goods stores, you can often find McDavid flexible tape alongside generic brands in the first aid sections. This option can be particularly useful for last-minute needs or casual users.
The Crucial Role of Prewrap in Sports Performance
Prewrap, also known as underwrap, plays a vital role in athletic performance and injury prevention. This thin, stretchy material serves as a protective layer between the skin and athletic tape or braces. But what makes prewrap so essential for athletes?
Protection and Comfort
One of the primary benefits of prewrap is its ability to create a protective barrier. The soft, smooth fabric helps prevent skin irritation, blisters, and chafing that can occur when tape or braces are applied directly to the skin. Additionally, prewrap allows for painless removal of tape by preventing it from adhering directly to skin and hair. The cushioning effect of prewrap also helps absorb shock and impact during physical activities.
Enhanced Grip and Compression
Prewrap provides a surface for tape and braces to adhere to, ensuring a tighter and more secure wrap. The slight stretch in the material offers stable compression, which can help support muscles and joints. This compression not only improves proprioception (the body’s ability to sense its position in space) but also enhances blood flow to the wrapped area. The grip provided by prewrap also minimizes the chances of tape and braces slipping during intense physical activity.
Moisture Management and Hygiene
Quality prewrap often features moisture-wicking properties, which help keep the skin dry and cool during exercise. This is crucial for maintaining the adhesive properties of tape and preventing discomfort caused by sweat buildup. Many prewraps also incorporate antimicrobial technology, which helps inhibit odor and bacterial growth, promoting better hygiene during extended use.
Extended Tape Life
By using prewrap, athletes can often extend the life of their athletic tape. The protective layer it provides allows tape to be reused for multiple practices or games in some cases. Less direct contact with skin and uniforms helps preserve the tape’s adhesive properties. Additionally, the use of prewrap makes tape removal easier, reducing the risk of damaging the tape during the process.
Essential Features to Consider When Selecting Prewrap
With the market flooded with various prewrap options, it’s crucial to understand the key features that distinguish high-quality products. What should you look for to ensure you’re getting the best prewrap for your athletic needs?
Optimal Stretch and Compression
Effective prewrap typically offers about 10-15% stretch. This level of elasticity provides just the right amount of compression without restricting circulation. It’s important to choose a product that maintains its stretch over time, as prewrap that loses its elasticity can become loose and ineffective.
Breathability and Moisture Management
Breathability is a critical feature in prewrap. Look for materials that wick sweat away from the skin and allow for proper airflow. Moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabrics are ideal for maintaining comfort and preventing the buildup of sweat that could compromise tape adhesion. Avoid non-breathable materials that can trap heat and moisture against the skin.
Durability and Longevity
High-quality prewrap should be able to withstand the rigors of athletic use without excessive tearing, fraying, or pilling. Abrasion-resistant fabrics help maintain the integrity of the wrap throughout multiple uses. Additionally, good stretch retention is crucial to prevent the wrap from becoming loose over time.
Effective Grip
The ideal prewrap provides a balance between grip and comfort. Look for soft, slightly tacky fabrics that adhesive can easily stick to. However, the material shouldn’t be so sticky that it catches on clothing or itself. A long-lasting grip that endures through multiple uses is a hallmark of quality prewrap.
Comfort and Skin-Friendliness
Comfort is paramount when it comes to prewrap, as it’s in direct contact with the skin. Opt for smooth, soft materials that feel pleasant against the skin. Seamless prewrap is particularly beneficial as it eliminates potential pressure points or irritation caused by seams.
Maximizing Athletic Performance with Proper Prewrap Use
Understanding how to effectively use prewrap can significantly enhance an athlete’s performance and safety. What are some best practices for applying and using prewrap?
Proper Application Techniques
To get the most out of your prewrap, it’s crucial to apply it correctly. Start by cleaning and drying the skin thoroughly. Begin wrapping at the distal end (furthest from the heart) of the area you’re treating, overlapping each layer by about 50%. Maintain consistent tension throughout the application to ensure even compression. Avoid wrapping too tightly, as this can restrict circulation.
Combining Prewrap with Athletic Tape
When using prewrap in conjunction with athletic tape, apply the prewrap first, followed by the tape. This combination provides optimal support and protection. The prewrap acts as a buffer between the skin and tape, while the tape offers additional stability and compression. Ensure that the tape is applied with the same care and attention to detail as the prewrap.
Customizing for Different Body Parts
Different areas of the body may require slightly different approaches when applying prewrap. For example, wrapping an ankle might involve figure-eight patterns, while wrapping a knee might require a spiral technique. Familiarize yourself with specific wrapping techniques for various body parts to ensure the most effective support and protection.
The Impact of Quality Prewrap on Injury Prevention
High-quality prewrap plays a significant role in injury prevention for athletes. How does this simple yet effective tool contribute to keeping athletes safe?
Reducing Friction and Chafing
By creating a barrier between the skin and athletic tape or braces, prewrap significantly reduces the risk of friction-related injuries such as blisters and skin abrasions. This is particularly important in high-movement areas or during endurance activities where repetitive motion can lead to skin irritation.
Enhancing Joint Stability
When used in combination with athletic tape, prewrap helps enhance joint stability. The compression provided by the prewrap, coupled with the support of the tape, can help limit excessive joint movement without completely restricting mobility. This can be particularly beneficial in preventing sprains and strains.
Improving Proprioception
The light compression offered by prewrap can enhance an athlete’s proprioception – their awareness of body position and movement. Improved proprioception can lead to better balance and coordination, potentially reducing the risk of injuries caused by poor body mechanics or unexpected movements.
Comparing Top Prewrap Brands: Which Offers the Best Value?
With numerous prewrap brands available, it can be challenging to determine which offers the best value for your needs. How do some of the top brands compare in terms of quality, price, and performance?
McDavid: Premium Quality and Performance
McDavid is often considered a leader in the athletic tape and prewrap market. Their products are known for exceptional durability and grip, making them a favorite among serious athletes. While they may come at a higher price point, many users find the quality justifies the cost.
Mueller: Reliable and Widely Available
Mueller offers a range of prewrap products that balance quality and affordability. Their prewrap is widely available and provides good performance for both casual and serious athletes. While it may not match the premium quality of McDavid, it offers excellent value for its price.
Johnson & Johnson: Accessible and Versatile
Johnson & Johnson’s prewrap products are often more accessible and affordable, making them a popular choice for casual users or those new to using prewrap. While they may not offer the same level of performance as specialized sports brands, they provide a good entry point for those exploring the benefits of prewrap.
The Future of Prewrap: Innovations and Trends
As sports science and materials technology continue to advance, what innovations can we expect to see in the world of prewrap? How might these developments impact athletic performance and injury prevention?
Smart Prewrap Technology
One exciting area of development is the integration of smart technology into prewrap. Imagine prewrap that can monitor muscle activity, joint angles, and even fatigue levels. This data could be transmitted to coaches or medical staff in real-time, allowing for more informed decisions about an athlete’s training or playing time.
Eco-Friendly Materials
As environmental consciousness grows, we’re likely to see more prewrap options made from sustainable or biodegradable materials. These eco-friendly alternatives could offer the same performance benefits while reducing the environmental impact of disposable athletic products.
Enhanced Antimicrobial Properties
With increasing awareness of the importance of hygiene in sports, future prewrap may incorporate more advanced antimicrobial technologies. These could offer longer-lasting protection against bacteria and fungi, reducing the risk of skin infections and improving overall hygiene for athletes.
Customizable Compression Levels
Advancements in material science may lead to prewrap that can adjust its compression level based on the user’s needs. This could allow for personalized support that adapts to different activities or stages of recovery from injury.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that prewrap will continue to play a crucial role in athletic performance and injury prevention. By staying informed about the latest developments and choosing high-quality products, athletes can ensure they’re getting the most out of this essential piece of sports equipment.
Finding McDavid Athletic Tape and Underwrap Locally
McDavid is one of the most popular and trusted brands when it comes to athletic tape, prewrap, and underwrap. Many athletes swear by McDavid’s durability and grip. So where can you find their products locally?
Your best bet is to check sporting goods stores in your area. Major chains like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Academy Sports, and Modell’s are likely to carry a selection of McDavid prewrap, athletic tape, and underwrap. You’ll often find McDavid displayed alongside other top brands like Mueller and Johnson & Johnson. Go prepared with the specific type you need – for example, rigid Sports Tape or flexible All Purpose Athletic Tape. Stores may also stock McDavid underwrap, which helps grip tape stay put. Don’t be afraid to ask for help finding exactly what you want.
Local independent sporting goods shops can be another good place to find McDavid. These specialty retailers cater to serious athletes and teams. So they’re likely to understand the difference between various tapes, wraps, and braces. Be sure to call ahead to check their stock. Some smaller stores may need to special order certain items.
It’s also worth checking pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid. Their first aid sections will often have McDavid flexible tape alongside generics. This can work in a pinch or for general use. But selection is more limited than dedicated sporting goods stores.
With some searching, you should be able to find the specific type of McDavid prewrap, athletic tape, or underwrap you need locally. Supporting small businesses while getting products immediately is a win-win. Just be prepared to call around and visit a few places to find the right supply.
Benefits of Prewrap for Sports
Prewrap is an essential item for many athletes. This thin, stretchy underwrap helps provide grip and protection when worn under tape or braces. Using quality prewrap offers key benefits for sports performance and safety.
Prewrap creates a protective barrier between skin and tape or braces. The soft, smooth fabric helps prevent irritation, blisters, and chafing. Prewrap allows tape to be removed painlessly by keeping it from sticking directly to skin and hair. The cushioning of prewrap also helps absorb shock and impact.
It provides enhanced grip and compression. Prewrap gives tape and braces something to adhere to for a tight wrap. The light stretch adds stable compression to help support muscles and joints. This improves proprioception and blood flow. The grip of prewrap also minimizes slipping of tape and braces during competition and training.
Moisture-wicking prewrap keeps skin dryer and cooler. Sweat-wicking fabrics prevent moisture buildup that could cause tape to loosen. Breathable prewrap helps avoid overheating and discomfort. Antimicrobial prewrap also inhibits odor and bacterial growth.
Using prewrap properly can extend the life of tape. The protection prewrap offers allows tape to be reused for multiple practices or games. Less direct contact with skin and uniforms preserves tape adhesive. Prewrap also makes removal easier to avoid damaging tape.
Quality prewrap like McDavid provides durable construction for all sports. It stands up to wear and tear without tearing or excess pilling. Stretchy yet supportive prewrap conforms well to different body parts. And soft, breathable fabrics offer next-to-skin comfort.
So take advantage of the many benefits prewrap offers under athletic tape and braces. It’s an essential item that provides protection, grip, and performance enhancement during training, competition, and recovery. Investing in premium prewrap helps maximize its advantages.
Key Features to Look for When Buying Prewrap
With many prewrap options on the market, it’s important to understand the key features that make it effective for athletic use. Considering these factors will help you choose high quality prewrap for the best performance and protection.
Stretch and compression – Good prewrap has about 10-15% stretch to provide just the right amount of compression. It should offer support without constricting circulation. The fabric shouldn’t lose its stretch and become loose with wear.
Breathability – Prewrap needs to wick sweat and allow airflow next to the skin. Look for moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabrics. Avoid non-breathable materials that trap heat and sweat.
Durability – Prewrap must stand up to sports use without excessive tearing, fraying or pilling. Abrasion-resistant fabric maintains integrity. Stretch retention prevents the wrap from getting loose.
Grip – The ideal grip comes from soft, barely tacky fabric that adhesive sticks to. But prewrap shouldn’t be so sticky it catches on clothing or itself. The grip should last through multiple uses.
Comfort – Smooth, soft prewrap feels great against skin. Opt for seamless prewrap when possible to prevent chafing. Flatlocked or bias-cut seams are otherwise preferred. The fabric itself should feel gentle without roughness.
Convenience – Self-adhering prewrap saves time taping. Some also tear cleanly without scissors. Convenient dispensers allow quick and easy wrapping. Portability is a plus for on-the-go use.
The best prewrap combines the ideal blend of stretch, breathability, and grip. It should provide just the right compression while wicking moisture to keep skin comfortable and tape secure. Considering these performance factors helps find high quality prewrap to meet your athletic needs.
Overview of Top Brands for Prewrap and Athletic Tape
When shopping for prewrap and athletic tape, you’ll find many major brands to choose from. Understanding the key players can help guide you to quality options. Here’s an overview of some top names in athletic prewrap and tapes:
McDavid – A trusted leader in sports medicine products for over 30 years. Offers athletic tape, cohesive tape, braces, and a wide selection of prewrap. Known for comfort, support, and durability.
Mueller – Provides sports medicine essentials for athletes at all levels. Carries prewrap, rigid and elastic athletic tapes, kinesiology tape, and more. Emphasizes quality comfortable support.
Johnson & Johnson – A healthcare leader, J&J offers the classic Coach athletic tape, FlexWrap prewrap, and other sports medicine supplies. Time-tested, reliable performance.
KT Tape – Specializes in kinesiology/elastic therapeutic tape. Also makes Pro prewrap and HyperFlex tape for support and flexibility. Focuses on pain relief and recovery.
RockTape – Known for their kinesiology tapes and prewraps. Uses specialized stretchable fabric for flexible support. Ideal for preventing injuries and enhancing performance.
PowerTape – Offers rigid athletic tape, cohesive tape, prewrap and braces. Stands out with extra strong, heavy-duty tape for maximum support and compression.
There are also popular generic, store brand, and specialty options available. But the big brands like McDavid and Mueller are trusted for consistent quality you can rely on year after year. Trying different types of tape and prewrap lets you find the right match for your needs and preferences.
Why McDavid Is a Top Choice for Athletic Tape and Underwrap
When it comes to athletic tape and underwrap, McDavid is a top choice among athletes, trainers, and sports medicine professionals. There are several key reasons McDavid tape and underwrap stands out from the competition:
Innovative fabrics – McDavid utilizes technologically advanced materials like HexPad cushioning, Bio-Logix antimicrobial protection, and HDC moisture-wicking. These enhancements boost comfort, hygiene, and performance.
Superior adhesive – McDavid tape features a latex-free adhesive with just the right grip strength. It adheres securely but is easy to remove without damaging skin or uniforms. The tape backing resists curling or sliding.
Targeted support – Tapes like McDavid’s Rigid Sport Tape provide structured compression for vulnerable joints. But options like Ultra-Lite Athletic Tape offer flexible support where needed.
Durable construction – McDavid tape maintains integrity and stickiness through multiple uses and washes. Their no-slip underwrap retains stretch and compression over time.
Extensive variety – McDavid offers tape, underwrap, and braces for nearly every body part and usage. This makes it easy to customize support and protection.
Trusted protection – McDavid has a decades-long legacy in sports medicine. Athletic trainers and therapists rely on their tape for NBA, NFL, MLB, and NCAA athletes.
When you want athletic tape and underwrap you can count on play after play, game after game, McDavid is a safe bet. Their continued innovation and quality provide proven performance. Give their tape and prewrap a try if you want support you can feel the difference with.
Finding McDavid Prewrap, Athletic Tape, and Underwrap Locally
McDavid is one of the most popular and trusted brands when it comes to athletic tape, prewrap, and underwrap. Many athletes swear by McDavid’s durability and grip. So where can you find their products locally?
Your best bet is to check sporting goods stores in your area. Major chains like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Academy Sports, and Modell’s are likely to carry a selection of McDavid prewrap, athletic tape, and underwrap. You’ll often find McDavid displayed alongside other top brands like Mueller and Johnson & Johnson. Go prepared with the specific type you need – for example, rigid Sports Tape or flexible All Purpose Athletic Tape. Stores may also stock McDavid underwrap, which helps grip tape stay put. Don’t be afraid to ask for help finding exactly what you want.
Local independent sporting goods shops can be another good place to find McDavid. These specialty retailers cater to serious athletes and teams. So they’re likely to understand the difference between various tapes, wraps, and braces. Be sure to call ahead to check their stock. Some smaller stores may need to special order certain items.
It’s also worth checking pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid. Their first aid sections will often have McDavid flexible tape alongside generics. This can work in a pinch or for general use. But selection is more limited than dedicated sporting goods stores.
With some searching, you should be able to find the specific type of McDavid prewrap, athletic tape, or underwrap you need locally. Supporting small businesses while getting products immediately is a win-win. Just be prepared to call around and visit a few places to find the right supply.
Online Options for Buying McDavid Sports and Athletic Tape
While searching local stores is one way to find McDavid tape and underwrap, looking online opens up more choices. Shopping online for McDavid athletic tape provides convenience along with competitive prices.
McDavid’s own website at mcdavidusa.com offers their full range of sports medicine products. Order tape, underwrap, braces, and other items direct from the source. McDavid runs frequent sales and promotions to help save on larger orders. Free shipping is available on some purchases.
Major online retailers like Amazon also carry a wide selection of McDavid prewrap and tapes. Amazon Prime members can get quick free delivery on most products. Browsing user reviews can provide helpful insight on specific McDavid items.
Specialty sports retailers like Runner’s World, Swim Outlet, and Lacrosse Unlimited have dedicated McDavid shops online. Find sport-specific tape and accessories tailored for your needs. These sites may offer exclusive items or bundled deals on McDavid products.
Some local sporting goods stores provide online ordering with in-store pickup. Place your order for McDavid tape online, then pick up at a conveniently located store near you. This allows checking stock and reserving items ahead of time.
Ordering McDavid tape and underwrap online provides more choice and quick access from home. Look for free shipping offers and discounts on multi-packs to maximize savings. You can enjoy both convenience and competitive prices shopping for McDavid athletic essentials online.
Buying Prewrap Products in Bulk for Teams and Groups
If you’re purchasing prewrap and athletic tape for a sports team, school, league, or other large group, buying in bulk can save significantly. Here are some tips for getting the most value when buying prewrap in bulk:
Check with athletic brands like McDavid about bulk pricing or team discounts. As a leading sports medicine supplier, they may offer special rates on large prewrap orders for teams and organizations. Ask about bundled pricing on tape, underwrap, and other supplies as well.
See if your local sporting goods store provides team discounts or works with clubs and schools. Developing a relationship as an ongoing team account can lead to better bulk pricing. They may also handle special orders and customization like adding team logos.
Compare per-item cost across different bulk quantities. Calculate the per roll price for options like 30-packs vs 50-packs to find the optimal bulk size. Make sure you can use the full quantity within the product shelf life.
Look for coupons and limited time offers when buying in bulk online. Sign up for brand emails and check sites like DicksSportingGoods.com for periodic percentage discounts and flash sales that maximize bulk savings.
Split large orders between online and local stores to get the best pricing on bulk quantities you need. Take advantage of any discounts and team programs available.
Buying quality prewrap and athletic tape in bulk combines value and convenience. Do some cost comparison homework to get the lowest per-item pricing on exactly the large quantity your team or group requires.
Finding Specialty Prewrap Like Kinesiology and Cohesive Tape
Beyond basic cloth prewrap, some specialized prewrap products can provide targeted athletic benefits:
Kinesiology tape prewrap is designed to mimic the stretch and movement of human muscle. The lightweight, breathable material allows full range of motion while adding joint stability and light compression. Brands like KT Tape, SpiderTech, and RockTape make kinesio-style prewraps.
Cohesive bandage prewraps like PowerFlex and Flexzap provide stronger support by sticking to themselves without adhesive. The wrap molds to the shape of the area while compressing evenly. Look for latex-free options like McDavid’s Coban wrap.
Elastic therapeutic tape prewrap stretches up to 180% while recovering its shape. This dynamic flex aids motion and blood flow for injury prevention and recovery. Pro-Tec’s Athletics Elastic Tape combines elasticity with athletic durability.
Gripper prewrap has silicone dots or tread patterns on one side to create non-slip grip against the skin. It prevents sliding of tape and braces for a more secure wrap. Mueller makes both cloth and cohesive gripper prewraps.
For taping sensitive or frequently injured areas, specialty prewraps can provide extra support, compression, and stabilization. Talk to athletic trainers about the best options for your needs. With brands like McDavid, Mueller, and RockTape, you have many choices.
Ensuring You Get Authentic, High Quality Prewrap
With prewrap and athletic tape being essential sports medicine supplies, you want to make sure you get authentic, high quality products. Follow these tips to avoid counterfeits and get the real performance you need:
Buy from authorized retailers you trust, like major sporting goods stores and brand websites. Fake prewrap is more likely sold through sketchy online-only shops, auction sites, and unauthorized resellers.
Inspect packaging closely and research labeling. Counterfeit prewrap may have misspellings, blurry logos, or other signs of unprofessional printing and design. Brands like McDavid and Mueller regularly update their packaging.
Check for verification codes and seals like holograms on packaging. Unique serial numbers can sometimes be verified on the brand’s website for added authentication.
Review product materials and construction. Authentic prewrap features soft, breathable performance fabrics. Stretch, compression and adhesion should match branded specifications. Irregularities likely indicate an imitation.
Seek out prewrap bundled with other branded sports medicine products. Counterfeiters rarely copy full product lines, so packaged deals are less prone to fakes sneaking in.
Buying directly from major athletic brands provides the best assurance you’re getting legit prewrap. But even retailers like Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods avoid listing fake products, so larger marketplaces are generally safe buys as well with a bit of due diligence.
Caring for Prewrap Properly for Longevity
Prewrap and athletic tape perform best when cared for properly. Following some key tips can extend the life of your prewrap and tape:
Avoid excessive moisture – Wetness from washing, rain, and sweat can compromise adhesive grip. Pat dry damp wraps and tape; don’t machine wash. Let products fully air dry between uses.
Watch for wear – Check for fraying, tearing or excessive pilling, which indicate a wrap is worn out. Tape with curled edges or failing adhesion should be replaced.
Store out of heat – Don’t leave prewrap or tape in cars or direct sun. The ideal storage temperature is 60-80°F.
Keep dust-free – Prevent lint, dirt and other debris from sticking to tape adhesive by storing in sealed bags or original packaging.
Limit UV exposure – Sunlight can degrade fabrics and adhesives over time. Keep unused product wrapped up or in your gym bag.
Clean skin – Dirt, oils and lotions interfere with tape grip. Cleanse skin with alcohol wipes where tape will be applied.
Rewrap smoothly – Wrinkles under tape lead to uneven compression. Unroll prewrap smoothly and stretch gently while wrapping for optimal adhesion.
With some basic care, quality prewrap and athletic tape can remain in playing condition much longer. Get the most value by maximizing usefulness over multiple games and practices before replacement becomes necessary. Proper storage and precautions go a long way.
Using Prewrap for Non-Sports Applications
While prewrap is specially engineered for athletic use, it can provide benefits beyond sports as well. The lightweight, breathable and stretchy fabric lends itself to many everyday applications:
Hair protection – Prewrap can wrap around hair styles or braids to prevent friction that causes breakage and split ends. Its smooth, loose weave won’t snag or pull hair.
Medical bandaging – Prewrap’s gentle compression works for light sprains, strains and swelling where full bandages would restrict movement. It protects wounds and secured dressings.
Pet care – Vets sometimes recommend prewrap for compressing bandages on dogs and cats. Stretchy prewrap adjusts better to animal limbs. It also prevents licking and scratching of injuries.
Gardening and yard work – Prewrap provides padding protection under gloves to prevent blisters from tools and dirt abrasion. The fabric lets skin breathe better than most work gloves.
Automotive maintenance – Prewrap’s grip helps get a solid hold on oily engine parts and tools. It gives better traction for opening stubborn lids and filters.
Prewrap’s versatility extends far beyond its core sports uses. Keep some handy at home and in the car first aid kit for a variety of needs. The lightweight durability and gentle compression of athletic prewrap lend themselves well to improvised protective uses. It provides a breathable alternative to bulky bandages and abrasive work gloves for minor daily hazards and chores.
Wrap Up – Where to Find the Best Prewrap Products Locally
After exploring the many benefits of quality prewrap and athletic tape, where can you find the top options locally?
Major sporting goods chains like Dick’s, Modell’s, and Academy Sports carry a strong assortment of the leading brands. Shop the tape and braces section for prewrap from McDavid, Mueller, Johnson & Johnson, and more. Stores with full-service athletic training departments are best.
Ask small independent sports shops about their prewrap selection. Specialty running, cycling, tennis and team dealers know what local athletes need. They may even stock custom team prewrap.
Don’t overlook medical supply retailers for versatile prewrap uses. Pharmacies and stores like CVS have basic but affordable cloth or cohesive options that work in a pinch.
Check your favorite sports or outdoors stores’ websites to see if online orders can be picked up in local stores. Then enjoy easy access without waiting on shipping.
Trying out a few different types and brands is the best way to find your ideal prewrap and tape. With quality sporting goods retailers conveniently located across the country, you’re sure to find supplies that meet your needs both on the field and off.
