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In the world of combat sports like Muay Thai and boxing, handwraps are as essential as gloves and mouthguards. They provide critical support and protection to the hands and wrists, reducing the risk of injuries during training and fights. Whether you’re a parent looking for wraps for your child or an adult fighter seeking the best options, this guide covers the different types of handwraps, top brands, pros and cons, and where to get them.
Why Handwraps Are Important
- Protection
- Handwraps secure the bones and tendons in your hands, minimizing the impact forces.
- Support
- They stabilize your wrist and thumb, preventing sprains and fractures.
- Hygiene
- Handwraps absorb sweat, keeping your gloves cleaner and odor-free.
- Longevity
- By reducing wear and tear on your gloves, handwraps extend their lifespan.
Types of Handwraps
1. Traditional Cotton Handwraps
Description: Long, non-elastic cotton wraps typically measuring 180 inches for adults and 120 inches for kids.
Pros:
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Provide excellent support when wrapped correctly.
- Washable and reusable.
Cons:
- Can be time-consuming to put on.
- Less flexible, which may affect comfort.
2. Mexican-Style Elastic Handwraps
Description: Semi-elastic wraps that offer a bit of stretch, conforming better to the hand’s shape.
Pros:
- More comfortable due to elasticity.
- Snug fit enhances support.
- Easier to wrap tightly.
Cons:
- Elasticity may degrade over time.
- Can become too tight if over-stretched.
3. Quick Handwraps
Description: Slip-on wraps with gel padding, resembling fingerless gloves.
Pros:
- Fast and convenient to wear.
- Extra padding protects knuckles.
- Ideal for beginners.
Cons:
- Less wrist support compared to traditional wraps.
- Bulkier under gloves.
- Need frequent washing.
Choosing the Right Handwraps
- Length:
- Adults typically use 180-inch wraps, while kids can use shorter lengths like 108 or 120 inches.
- Material:
- Decide between traditional cotton for rigidity or elastic blends for flexibility.
- Type:
- Choose between traditional wraps for maximum support or quick wraps for convenience.
- Comfort:
- Ensure the material feels good against the skin to avoid irritation.
- Support Needs:
- If you have previous hand injuries, opt for wraps that offer extra support.
How to Wrap Your Hands
Proper wrapping technique is crucial for protection:
- Start with the Thumb Loop:
- Place the loop over your thumb and begin wrapping around the back of your hand.
- Wrist Support:
- Wrap around your wrist several times for stability.
- Hand and Knuckles:
- Wrap across the back of your hand and over your knuckles.
- Fingers:
- Weave between the fingers to keep the wrap secure.
- Finish at the Wrist:
- Secure the wrap with the Velcro closure.
Resources:
- YouTube Tutorials:
- Trainer Assistance:
- Ask a coach at your gym for a hands-on demonstration (Kru Andy and Coach Maaliek are great at helping people learn how to wrap their hands)
Care and Maintenance
- Washing:
- Wash wraps after each use to prevent bacteria build-up. Use a mesh bag if putting in a laundry machine!
- Drying:
- Air dry to maintain elasticity and prevent shrinkage.
- Storage:
- Roll them up neatly to keep them wrinkle-free and ready for the next session.
- If you’re too lazy to roll your wraps up yourself, or are short on time, consider one of these (Make sure your wraps are DRY BEFORE your roll them up)
Conclusion
Handwraps are a small but vital part of any fighter’s gear. They protect the intricate bones and tendons in your hands, allowing you to train harder and longer. With options available for both kids and adults, and a range of materials and styles, there’s a perfect pair out there for everyone. Remember to consider your specific needs, whether it’s maximum support, comfort, or convenience, and choose a brand that delivers on those requirements.