Bandages, straps and tapes for football

Elastic band, rigid tape or cohesive bandage: which one to choose

• Elastic adhesive bandage: the Select Tensoplast bandages and Tremblay bands that are three, six, or eight centimeters wide stretch to support a joint without immobilising it.
• Rigid tape: non-elastic, often coated with zinc oxide, it locks a joint in place and is used for ankle support straps.
• Cohesive bandage: it adheres only to itself, not to the skin or hair, and holds a compress or cold pack in place.
• Velpeau bandage and stretch bandage: non-adhesive, they secure a dressing or provide light compression.

Other footballer care

Support is just one part of the kit. Cold products soothe a shock or sprain in the first few minutes, hot products prepare and relax the muscles, and medical bags store bands and scissors until the bench. The care page brings everything together.

Preparing the skin before ankle strapping

A strap holds better and comes off painlessly when the skin is prepared. The pre-taping band Select Profcare, a thin foam placed under the strap, protects the skin from irritation and prevents pulling hair when removed. The skin must be clean, dry, and free of cream.

The ankle strapping is applied with the foot at a right angle: anchoring bands around the lower leg and foot, then stirrups under the heel, and finally closing bands. The Uhlsport ankle bandage offers a ready-to-wear alternative for players who don't know how to strap. For a recent sprain, ask a physiotherapist to show you the technique.

Kinesiology tape and fabric tape, two distinct uses

The kinesiology tape was developed in the 1970s by Japanese chiropractor Kenzo Kase. Thin and elastic in its length, it sticks to the skin without restricting movement and can be worn for several days, even in the shower. Its effects on performance are still debated, but many players appreciate the feeling of support that it provides on a calf or thigh.

The fabric tape Sporti has a simpler role: to secure a compress on a cut or scrape, which are common on synthetic surfaces, and to stay in place throughout the match despite sweating.

Stocking up on bands and straps at the right time

A club consumes dozens of rolls per season. Black Friday and the end of year holidays are perfect for bulk orders, winter sales and equipment promotions follow, then the French Days spring equipment and summer sales prepare for the resumption of training. End-of-line products go into clearance, and every order is prepared and dispatched within 24 hours.

Frequently asked questions

Why do footballers wear a wrist bandage?

Most often to support a wrist weakened by a fall or sprain, as landings on hands are common. Some players also use it to keep a dressing in place or out of habit.

How long can you keep an ankle strap on?

A rigid strap is removed after the match or session, as it loses its effectiveness in a few hours and can irritate the skin. A kinesiology tape, it, can be kept for several days.

How to remove a strap without pulling the skin off?

Cut it with rounded scissors on the side opposite to the painful area, then gently peel it off while holding the skin with the other hand. An adhesive remover helps with the removal of residues.

What width of adhesive tape is suitable for an ankle?

A width of five to six centimeters is suitable for most adult ankles. Bands of seven and a half centimeters or eight centimeters better cover larger joints, like the knee.

Can a player play with a visible dressing?

Yes, as long as it poses no danger to other players. A referee may ask for a bleeding wound to be covered, and the player can only return to the field once the bleeding has stopped.