Kinesiology tape is used for a variety of reasons. You may have injuries or arthritis you want to treat, or you may want to add support to your body while you’re working out. Kinesiology tape can even help bruises fade faster. And it comes in dozens of colors, so you can showcase your personality while you heal and work out.
The best kinesiology tape is Bear Komplex Athletic Sports Tape. It’s built tough to resist water and sweat, and it’s easy to tear off the piece you need from the roll.
Kinesiology tape is said to have multiple benefits. Among those claimed for it:
Kinesiology tape comes in rolls that are either one long piece or precut into strips. Precut strips make it much easier for beginners to get a handle on proper application, but can be restrictive for experienced users.
Some solid tapes have cutting guidelines on them to make trimming easier. Others are designed to be easy to tear so you don’t need to cut at all.
Kinesiology tape is designed to stretch the skin, muscle and joints, and it accomplishes this with increasingly higher percentages of elasticity. Tapes typically come with 120%-180% elasticity, meaning the tape can stretch up to 120%-180% of its original size.
The higher the elasticity the better, as the tape becomes easier to apply, is less limiting and is more effective. That said, higher elasticities are also more expensive.
Kinesiology tape is made of layers, with the outermost layer the most important — and the most varied. Typically, this layer is cotton or a synthetic material.
Kinesiology tape typically costs $10-$75, depending on factors such as the elasticity and size. Basic, small rolls sell for $20 or less, with midrange rolls costing roughly $20-$40. The largest, most elastic rolls cost around $40-$75.
A. Yes. Most studies, such as those discussed by the National Institutes of Health, come to the same conclusion: that kinesiology tape has minor to little positive effects on the issues it’s designed to treat or manage. However, studies have also suggested that there’s no harm in using kinesiology tape and that its placebo-like effects are potentially helpful.
A. The adhesive used by most kinesiology tapes is strong — strong enough to stay put for nearly a week, in some cases. In fact, kinesiology tape is frequently worn for several days at a time before being removed. If you plan on wearing it this long, however, make sure it’s water-resistant so it won’t come off from sweat.
A. It’s possible. Most tapes are made of hypoallergenic materials and adhesives to prevent it, but everyone’s body is different, so you may have a reaction. If you feel any irritation, immediately remove the tape. You should also avoid applying it to damaged skin, including rashes, cuts and scrapes, as it can worsen these areas.
Bear Komplex Athletic Sports Tape
What you need to know: It’s effective and comes at a great price.
What you’ll love: It comes with four or 12 rolls that are 2 inches wide and 14.75 feet long. It absorbs sweat to reduce irritation, even in the midst of the most extreme workouts. Its surface is smooth and nonslip.
What you should consider: A few consumers had problems getting the tape to stay in place. Others had issues with bunching if the tape wasn’t applied tautly.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: It’s cheap and comes precut for simplicity.
What you’ll love: Each roll includes 20 strips that are 2 inches wide and 10 inches long, plus it’s available in two colors. It’s made of cotton with a touch of spandex to be waterproof, comfortable and effective. It uses a visual application aid to help you apply it perfectly.
What you should consider: A handful of customers reported the tape to leave marks on the skin after it was removed. Others found the adhesive to cause itchiness.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Physix Gear Sport Kinesiology Tape Pro
What you need to know: This tape comes with a guide, making it perfect for those new to kinesiology tape.
What you’ll love: It’s available in 10 colors and comes with one or two rolls that are 2 inches wide and 16 feet long. It’s hypoallergenic and latex-free, plus it’s water- and sweat-resistant. The underside of the tape has grid lines as a cutting guide.
What you should consider: If not applied correctly, it can cause irritation or even blisters. It can be difficult to remove and to cut to the desired length.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Jordan C. Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
