If you're a first time user of kinesiology tape or curious about trying something new, choosing the right tape for your needs can seem challenging. There are various types of KT Tape that serve different functions for various conditions. Don't sweat it. We're here to make sure you've got the right KT Tape so you can buy, apply, and get moving.
Whether it's Cotton, Gentle, Pro, Extreme, Oxygen, or Wide, here are 5 tips to make your decision on the best kinesiology tape easier.
How to Choose Kinesiology Tape
As a tool used widely in sports medicine and by clinicians, kinesiology tape can transform how you perform in sports, recreational outings, daily activities at work or home, and even recover from physical activity. There are a wide variety of KT Tape applications and knowing which type to choose can feel overwhelming. Here’s a basic guide on KT Tape products and what you should consider:
1. Activity level
The type of tape you choose will largely depend on your activity level. Each of our kinesiology tapes are designed to withstand the stress of different levels of movement so you can be free to move and be active without distraction.
If you're looking for kinesiology tape that will help you keep moving through light activity and general everyday wear, our Original Cotton is the perfect tape for you. Cotton tape is comfortable, water resistant, and will stay put for 1-3 days without need for reapplication.
For gym goers, we've got a KT Tape that will support you through more strenuous exercise or activity: KT Tape Pro. Our best-selling tape is made from synthetic, latex-free material, remains in place for 4-7 days, and can stand up to hard workouts and long distance runs.
Want a tape that will withstand even the toughest, most intense activity? Try KT Tape Pro Extreme. Made with our strongest adhesive and from 100% synthetic, latex-free material, Extreme performs whether your idea of intense is a half marathon or swimming the English Channel and will stick with you for 4-7 days.
2. Listen to your skin
We make KT Tape products with strong adhesive to make sure your tape stays put through whatever activity you enjoy, whether it's a short walk in the park or a triathlon. We recommend using KT Tape Pro and Extreme for higher activity levels, but if you have sensitive skin or are prone to skin irritation, we have a KT tape sensitive skin option for you too!
The adhesive in KT Tape Gentle is specially formulated to release more gently from your skin, while staying in place through humidity and even showers. If you have especially thin or reaction-prone skin, we recommend testing out KT Tape in a tougher area like the knee or forearm before applying.
Are you a sweaty Betty? If you find yourself perspiring lots during the day or during an activity, or if you have oily skin, never fear, KT Tape Extreme is here! Our Extreme adhesive was made to withstand the moisture and oils our bodies produce while being highly active or just going about our day so you never have to worry about your tape releasing or losing its stickiness.
3. Area of application
No matter what your activity level or injury is, there is a kinesiology taping application that can help with soreness, pain, and support. If you're completely new to kinesiology taping, we recommend checking out our video resource library to find a quick and easy explainer video for all the most common areas KT Tape is used.
For the majority of areas, our KT Tape precut strips can be applied and used easily, offering you the appropriate length needed to address the area without having to measure and cut on your own. For certain applications like IT Band, you may want to use a longer, uncut strip. Both types of tape will stick and perform, giving you the pain relief and support you need to get out there and crush your goals.
We know bodies come in all shapes and sizes, so our kinesiology tape can stretch and move, making sure you aren't limited in your movements and activity.
If you suffer from lower back pain or want to use KT Tape for larger muscle groups, our KT Tape Pro Wide is perfect for you. The double wide strip covers a larger surface area, making application easy so you can be fully supported and get back to activity.
Foot pain or strain? KT Tape Extreme will stay put and support you in the area that takes the biggest beating as you go about your day. You can apply KT Tape to your heel and other areas of the foot to help with plantar fasciitis, ankle support needs, Achilles tendonitis, and many others.
Did you know that you can shower, sweat, and swim with your KT Tape on? We designed our kinesiology tape so you can wear it over multiple days without worrying about reapplying. To make the most out of the KT Tape type you choose, read our blog on how to make your tape stick better.
Our adhesives are strong enough for wet conditions, but the best way to make sure your tape stays put is to properly prep the area. We recommend making sure the skin is clean and dry (alcohol wipes are best), pressing firmly to make sure it adheres, and giving your tape at least one hour to activate before running out the door to your mountain, lake, or marathon.
If you know you'll be going for a swim or sweating excessively, we always recommend our KT Tape Pro Extreme which has our strongest adhesive for water resistance so you can swim and sweat freely without worrying about your kinesiology tape pulling away from the skin.
4. Wet or sweat?
Did you know that you can shower, sweat, and swim with your KT Tape on? We designed our kinesiology tape so you can wear it over multiple days without worrying about reapplying.
Our adhesives are strong enough for wet conditions, but the best way to make sure your tape stays put is to properly prep the area. We recommend making sure the skin is clean and dry (alcohol wipes are best), pressing firmly to make sure it adheres, and giving your tape at least one hour to activate before running out the door to your mountain, lake, or marathon.
If you know you'll be going for a swim or sweating excessively, we always recommend our KT Tape Pro Extreme which has our strongest adhesive for water resistance so you can swim and sweat freely without worrying about your kinesiology tape pulling away from the skin.
5. Daring or discreet?
The last decision you should make about your tape is (in our opinion) the most fun. There are so many ways our kinesiology tape can help you get out there and live boldly, so we've got plenty of KT Tape colors and styles to choose from. What color speaks to your personality?
Perhaps you're a dancer and you need a tape that blends in with your skin and goes unnoticed while still giving you best in class support. Try our KT Tape Pro Extreme Tones series, made in four different shades.
Want to be bold with your tape or match your team colors? We've got exciting shades like Winner Green, Sonic Blue, Solar Yellow, Epic Purple, and Hero Pink so you can proudly wear your tape and stand out. Your hobbies and sports are exciting, why shouldn't your KT Tape be as well?
New to taping? Check out our video resource library with step-by-step instructions for all the most common taping applications.
Whichever type of KT Tape you choose, you can count on:
- Elastic core delivering strong support for muscles, joints and tendons without restricting comfort and range of motion
- Tape that is latex-free, hypoallergenic, and natural rubber-free
- Convenient and versatile pre-cut strips for at home or on-the-go
- Drug-free pain relief that keeps you moving and enjoying activities at every level
We hope this is helpful for you whether you're a brand new or veteran KT Tape user. As always, we're here to support you with drug-free pain relief and support so you can conquer your limits and live your best life.
