Underwrap: What It Is and Why Athletes Use It

Understanding Underwrap Tape and Its Uses

Underwrap, often called prewrap, is a lightweight, stretchy foam material used beneath athletic tape. Athletes use it to protect their skin and improve comfort during taping. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a weekend warrior, prewrap can make a big difference in how you feel and perform.

What Is Prewrap Used For?

Underwrap serves several purposes in sports and physical activity. Its main role is to act as a barrier between the skin and adhesive tape. This reduces skin irritation, especially during extended wear. It also makes the taping process more comfortable by preventing the direct pull of tape on skin and hair.

• In practical terms, it’s used before taping joints like ankles, wrists, and knees.
• Athletes may also use it to hold ice packs in place, secure shin guards in football…
• Because of its versatility, it’s become a staple in most athletic team training kits.

Is Prewrap the Same as Underwrap?

Yes, prewrap and underwrap refer to the same product. Both terms are used interchangeably in sports medicine. Prewrap highlights its role before taping, while underwrap emphasizes its position beneath the tape. Manufacturers and athletic trainers might prefer one term over the other, but they are identical in form and function.

Prewrap became especially popular in the 1990s and 2000s, and the name has stuck.

• Whether you buy it online or in a store, you’ll often see it labeled as either “pre-wrap” or “underwrap.”

Note; this is a different product to what is sometimes referred to as “underwrap tape” or the common product brand names Hypafix or Fixomull. Which is an adhesive tape the can also be used under sports taping. We will explain the difference and uses of this product in a separate post. 

Is Pre-Wrap Better Than Tape Alone?

Using prewrap is generally better than applying tape directly to the skin for a couple of reasons. Here’s why:

• It reduces irritation and allergic reactions from adhesives in the tape.
• It adds a layer of comfort during physical activity.
• It prevents painful tape removal, especially in areas with substantial hair.

While some athletes prefer direct taping for maximum support, many find that underwrap adds needed comfort without sacrificing stability. For athletes with sensitive skin, it can be the difference between daily use and skipping tape altogether.

Research in sports medicine supports this. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Athletic Training noted that while underwrap does slightly reduce the stiffness of tape jobs, it does not significantly reduce effectiveness in preventing injury. This balance between support and comfort is why it remains a go-to for many sports professionals.

Types of Underwrap Tape

Prewrap comes in several colors and sizes. Most rolls are about 5-7cm  wide and can stretch over long distances. The foam is breathable and tearable by hand, making it easy to apply without tools. Some versions are latex-free, which is important for users with allergies.

How to Use Prewrap Properly

To use underwrap, follow these simple steps:

1. Clean and dry the skin where the tape will be applied.
2. Wrap a single layer of underwrap around the area.
3. Apply athletic tape over the underwrap to secure the joint.
4. Smooth out any wrinkles or folds to prevent discomfort.

Make sure not to wrap too tightly. Prewrap is designed for comfort, not compression.

• When done right, it should feel light but secure.

Underwrap is a simple yet essential tool in athletic care. It helps protect the skin, improves tape comfort, and supports joint stability