What are wrist wraps?

Let's start by covering the basics. To some people this may seem obvious, but to others, wrist wraps can be confusing, especially when there are so many options on the market. Most wrist wraps come in pairs, made of cotton or nylon material, each band is 18 inches long, has a sturdy loop at one end, and ends with a Velcro strip. 

The primary purpose of wrist wraps is to provide support and stability for the wrist, preventing hyperextension while ensuring that the wrist is properly positioned under the barbell.  wrist wraps are especially useful during heavy weight or maximal strength push-ups and overhead workouts. 

You may also be wondering if wrist wraps help relieve wrist pain. wrist wraps are not intended to provide relief and should not be used as a pain relief support. Common wrist wraps are typically used to help treat injuries. Wrist straps do a good job by providing support and reducing stress on joints and muscles.

How do I use a wrist wrap? 

It's important to know the correct way to wear them. Here is a quick step-by-step guide on how to wear them properly.  

1. Find the thumb ring and make sure the ring is facing up.

2. Align the rings so that the long fabric strip is on the inside of your wrist.

3. Make sure the Velcro portion is facing up so you can securely fasten the wrap. 

4. Place your thumb through the loop and begin wrapping the fabric around your wrist.

5. Make sure the wrap fits snugly and the Velcro is secured to its strip.

What is the best wrist wrap? 

There are many different brands to choose from when selecting a pair of wrist wraps. Narrowing down your choices will depend on the type of sport you need to support.

When making your decision, double check the quality and longevity of the wristband material. These are common types of wrist wraps.

▻ Velcro wrist wraps are made of high-grade materials (such as cotton or nylon) for durability. They are typically 18 inches in length and are the most popular type of wrist wrap when it comes to maximizing movement in the bench press or shoulder press. 

▻ If you need more support for heavy lifting, hard wrist wraps are made of thicker, more durable materials and are available in a variety of sizes from 12 to 36 inches long. These wraps are a step up from the classic wraps because they are made of thicker material and thumb loops. You may see these used in race settings. 

▻ For those who like compound movements, power wraps are the best choice. They are smaller, feature a longer fabric design (about 36 inches) and can be adjusted quickly, which will come in handy when moving quickly.