Why Do Catchers Tape Their Wrists? The Ultimate Guide to Baseball Wrist Tape
If you’ve ever watched a baseball game closely, you might’ve noticed that many catchers — along with pitchers and position players — wear baseball wrist tape. But why do catchers, in particular, seem to rely on it so much? After all, a ton of college and professionals seem to be wearing it.
There isn’t just one answer, as it’s a combination of a few things: confidence, protection, and performance.
Baseball wrist tape isn’t just a fashion statement (though it does look cool). It’s a critical piece of gear that helps elite athletes stay agile, absorb impact, and perform at the highest level while worrying less about injuries. Let’s learn more about why wrist tape matters, what makes the best tape, and how you can choose the right stuff for your son or daughter, your team, or yourself.
Why Catchers Rely on Baseball Wrist Tape
Catching is one of the toughest jobs in all of sports. Every game, catchers face high-velocity pitches, foul tips off their catcher’s mitts, and awkward throws—all putting a ton of stress on their wrists and hands. Let’s not forget blocking balls in the dirt, which sometimes means jamming their glove and hand down into the ground. And maybe most of all, tag plays at the plate. And even the best catcher’s mitts are heavy and can wear them out. It’s a tough position.
Wrist tape provides unmatched support, optimal flexibility, and a layer of protection between the ball, the glove, and your skin. Without that extra layer, the constant pounding could easily lead to swelling, bruising, or worse. Plus, when you’re taping properly, it helps stabilize the joint without completely limiting movement, allowing players to stay agile and react quickly behind the plate.
I discovered wrist tape when I was a teenager. I broke both bones in my left arm, requiring surgery and metal implants. Wrist tape helped provide some support when catching baseballs and footballs, preventing pain and allowing for more stability.
What Kind of Tape Do Catchers Use?
Truthfully, catchers and other baseball players use all sorts of tape for wrist support. They’ll use medical tape, athletic tape, bandage tape, or wraps like boxers wear under their gloves. Some may even use K-tape (or kinesiology tape), which can be stretched for extra support, but is a nightmare to remove (especially if you have hairy arms). In these cases, it’s usually better to use a pre-wrap under the adhesive tape.
Smart catchers typically prefer self stick athletic tape, which has stretch but doesn’t stick to skin or hair. Unlike older types of athletic tape that needed pre-wrap or adhesives, self stick athletic tape moves naturally with the wrist. It’s way more comfortable and easier to adjust. It’s also sweat-resistant, so it holds up throughout a long, hot game or practice without peeling off or slipping.
Tape like the Savage Series wrist tape is perfect, as it’s specifically designed for baseball—offering the blend of stretch, stick, and support and features designs that baseball players love. It definitely gives them that baseball drip they’re looking for.
The Savage Series wrist tape is a favorite among players because it’s engineered with key features like:
- Breathable material to keep skin cool
- Durable design to last an entire game (and beyond)
- Easy tearing off the roll, no scissors needed
- Tons of unique styles to showcase your individuality
Custom Designs and Unique Style
Let’s be real: Catchers aren’t just wearing wrist tape for support—they’re also making a statement. It’s just as important as their mitt or catcher’s gear.
Many brands now offer custom designed tapes in bold colors, patterns, and logos, allowing players to express their individuality on the field. Whether you’re matching team colors, throwing on a camo print, or repping your favorite slogan or word, the right tape lets you showcase your style while staying protected.
Catchers love this, especially younger players. If you’re shopping for your son (or your daughter), giving them a few rolls of custom tape is a simple but exciting way to help them feel ready to play at their best.
While not a catcher, one of my favorite players today is Jarren Duran of the Boston Red Sox. He’s been open about his mental health struggles in the past, and his “custom” wrist tape looks a little different. I’m a Yankees fan, but Jarren’s struggles, work ethic, and bounce back story are unreal.
How to Tape Your Wrist for Baseball
Taping your wrist is pretty easy once you get the hang of it. Here’s the basic process:
- Start with your hand open and fingers outstretched. This flexes the wrist so it’s as thick as it gets.
- Start just below the base of your palm and wrap around, moving downward toward the mid-forearm. You don’t have to go all the way to the middle of the arm for wrist support, but you’ll get more protection from bumps and abrasions the further you go.
- Apply a moderate stretch—you want it snug, but not cutting off circulation.
- Wrap two to three layers for best comfort and support.
- Tear the tape neatly off the roll and press the end flat against the rest. It’s best to have the tail finish on the back of the wrist to keep it from unraveling while running, sliding, or blocking.
Since self stick athletic tape adheres to itself, not skin or hair, removing it after the game is simple and painless. Plus, since the best tapes are engineered for durability, they won’t unravel halfway through a doubleheader (if you apply it right).
Why Athletes Love Baseball Wrist Tape
Here’s why so many elite athletes (not just catchers) rely on baseball wrist tape every game:
- Unmatched support for the wrist joint
- Optimal flexibility to keep movements natural
- Comfort that lasts from first pitch to final out
- Ability to express personality and style
- Easy to apply, adjust, and remove
- No damage or irritation to skin or hair
When you choose the right tape, you’re ensuring your wrist can handle the demands of the sport without losing mobility or suffering unnecessary injuries. It’s one of those little items that can make a big difference when you’re trying to play your best.
Get in the Game with the Right Tape
Catchers have a lot to do and think about, and if you can remove one concern from their plate, they’ll be able to play much better. Whether you’re an experienced catcher or a baseball parent helping your son or daughter gear up for the season, baseball wrist tape is an essential tool for both protection and style.
Wrist tape delivers everything catchers need: unmatched support, custom designs, optimal flexibility, and serious attention to detail. It’s engineered to keep up with the demands of today’s sports — providing the confidence players need to command the field.
Ready to showcase your skills and express your style? Grab a roll (or two) of self stick athletic tape and hit the diamond with stuff that’s built to work as hard as catchers do.
