Description
This is a multi-roll pack of elastic kinesiology tape, each roll approximately 5cm wide by 5 metres long, supplied in assorted colours, priced at $55.99 with fast Australian shipping. It is the stretchy cotton-style tape you see on athletes' shoulders and knees - it moves with the skin rather than locking a joint down, so it does not restrict range of motion.
The distinction that matters is between this and rigid strapping tape. Rigid tape is designed to stop a joint moving, which is why it is applied tightly, comes off after an event and is uncomfortable for hours. Kinesiology tape stretches roughly 130 to 180 percent of its length and returns, so it stays on through showers and training for days at a time and lets you move normally while you wear it. That is why it ended up on shoulders at the Olympics rather than in a first aid kit - it is worn during activity, not instead of it.
Specifications
| Roll size |
Approx. 5cm wide x 5 metres long |
| Type |
Elastic kinesiology tape |
| Colours |
Assorted, supplied at random |
| Stretch |
Elastic - moves with the skin |
| Cutting |
Cut to length and shape as needed |
| Pack quantity |
See the note in the FAQ below |
What's in the Box
| Multiple rolls |
Elastic kinesiology tape, 5cm x 5m, assorted colours |
Why Choose Elastic Kinesiology Tape
-
Move normally while wearing it - it stretches and recovers rather than locking a joint
-
Stays on for days - through showers, training and sleep, unlike rigid tape
-
Cut to whatever shape you need - strips, Y shapes and fans all come off the same roll
-
Five metres per roll - a lot of applications before you reorder
-
Breathable - designed to be worn continuously rather than for an hour
What Is Kinesiology Tape and How Is It Different to Rigid Strapping Tape?
Rigid strapping tape is inelastic. Its job is mechanical restriction - hold an ankle so it cannot roll, hold a thumb so it cannot bend - and it does that job well for the duration of a game. Kinesiology tape is elastic and does something different: it is applied along a muscle or around a joint with a chosen amount of stretch, and it lifts and moves with the skin as you move. It provides light support and proprioceptive feedback rather than restriction. In practice, physiotherapists use both for different purposes, and which one is right depends entirely on what you are taping and why.
How Long Does Kinesiology Tape Stay On?
Typically three to five days if it is applied well, and considerably less if it is not. The single biggest factor is skin preparation. Clean, dry, oil-free skin holds tape; moisturiser, sunscreen and sweat do not. If the area is hairy, trim rather than shave - freshly shaved skin is irritated and lifts. Round the corners of every strip with scissors, because square corners are where peeling starts, and rub the tape firmly for a few seconds after applying so the adhesive activates with your body heat. Apply it at least an hour before showering or training.
How Do You Remove Kinesiology Tape Without It Hurting?
Slowly, in the direction of hair growth, and with the skin held. Do not rip it off like a plaster - that is how people end up with skin irritation and, occasionally, torn skin. Peel a corner back on itself so the tape folds against itself rather than pulling upward, press down on the skin just ahead of the peel with your other hand, and go slowly. If it is stuck fast, a little baby oil or moisturiser worked into the edge softens the adhesive. Removing it in the shower while the tape is wet and warm is easier again.
Buyers are typically runners, footballers and netballers, people following a taping routine their physio has shown them, gym users, and sports clubs buying tape for a season. It is also bought for everyday support of a niggling knee or shoulder during work.
See more in our Sports & Fitness range, or browse Health & Beauty for related products.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many rolls are in the pack?
Our supplier's own paperwork is contradictory on this point - the product name says six rolls and the package contents line says three. We have asked them to confirm and will update this listing as soon as we have an answer. Please contact us before ordering if the exact count matters to you, and we will confirm it first.
Can I choose the colours?
No. Colours are supplied at random.
Do I need to know a technique to use it?
Yes, application matters a great deal. Have a physiotherapist or sports trainer show you the application for your situation rather than copying a photograph.
Is it waterproof?
It is water resistant and designed to survive showering and swimming. Pat it dry rather than rubbing it.
Will it irritate my skin?
It can. Apply a small test strip for 24 hours before a full application, and remove it if you get redness, itching or a rash.
Can I use it on an open wound or a rash?
No. Never apply it over broken, irritated, infected or sunburnt skin.
Is it latex free?
The supplier does not state the adhesive composition, so we cannot confirm it. Anyone with a latex or adhesive allergy should not use it without checking.
Fast Australian Shipping
We ship from within Australia to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Canberra and Darwin, plus regional addresses nationwide, with tracking on every order.
This is a general sports and support tape. It is not a medical device and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any injury or condition. No claim is made that it increases blood flow, accelerates healing, reduces inflammation or relieves pain. Application technique matters - seek guidance from a physiotherapist, sports trainer or other qualified professional. Do not apply over broken, irritated, infected or sunburnt skin, over moles, or on anyone with a known adhesive or latex allergy. Patch test before first use and remove immediately if irritation occurs. Not a substitute for assessment and treatment of an injury by a qualified health professional. Roll dimensions are approximate and supplier-stated; colours are supplied at random.
