Proper foot tape aids athletes, hikers, and blister sufferers. There are so many options out there that it can be difficult to know which tape offers the best protection, support, and comfort. Here we compare zinc oxide tape for feet vs. kinesiology tape so you can decide.
What Is Zinc Oxide Tape for Feet?
Zinkoxidband, also known as athletic tape or strapping tape for feet, is a kind of nonelastic tape characterized by its strong zinc oxide-based adhesive. Non-elastic cotton or rayon is the most common fabric material for the tape you can find on the market. It is durable, friendly on the skin, and suitable for strapping, commonly utilized in the sports and medical industries.
Athletes and physical therapists use this tape aimed at immobilizing joints, such as the Knöchel, and giving good support to the feet. It is generally used to prevent any ankle sprains or injuries and to protect other wounded parts.
What Is Kinesiology Tape Used for?
Kinesiologisches Tape is made of elastic cotton with acrylic adhesive. It was developed to relieve pain, swelling, and inflammation and support joints such as the Knie and muscles. This cotton elastic sports tape is often used by athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and other professionals to relieve muscle soreness and pain in post-injury rehabilitation.
Key Differences Between Zinc Oxide and Kinesiology Tape
Kinesiology tape and zinc oxide tape are both sports tapes, but are used for different purposes. The key distinctions are flexibility, support, and adhesive strength.
Different Levels of Support
Zinc oxide tape, which is nonelastic, is often used to provide support to joints like the Handgelenk, knee, and ankle. Muscle tape is very elastic; it provides light support to muscles and joints without restricting movement.
Different Adhesion
Zinc oxide tape is very sticky, designed for high-intensity activities, making it difficult to fall off, but it will be painful when removed. While muscle tape is gentle on the skin, it stays in place during exercise and is easy to remove.
Different Flexibility
The zinc oxide tape is stiff and causes constriction. Therefore, it is more suitable for stabilizing body joints. While therapy tape has good flexibility and elasticity, it adheres to the skin, making it ideal for long-term use.
Which Tape Is Better for Blisters on Feet?
Blisters occur when skin on the foot is rubbed for a long period of time or intensely rubbed for a short period of time. If you’re always developing blisters on your runs, hikes, or football games, zinc oxide tape for feet could help you.
It won’t stretch and protect the skin. It also reduces friction in the heels, toes, and arches. Plus, the sturdy construction of the zinc oxide tape for feet is a good option for lengthy treks or runs.
How to Apply Zinc Oxide Tape for Feet Properly
To avoid blisters on the foot, simply apply zinc oxide tape directly to hotspots where blisters usually form. Or tape the shoe inside edge of the insole to provide a softer, more forgiving surface and lessen irritation.
If you are going to use zinc oxide tape to provide stabilization and protection for feet, it will be a little complex.
- Put the foot in a neutral position and wrap a strip around the ball of the foot.
- Wrap a strip around the heel and attach it to the tape at the ball.
- Take another strip of tape and tie one side attached to the front half of the foot. Wrap around the heel, then back to the starting position, forming an “X”-shape.
- Finally, cover the tape across the whole foot and ankle, leaving only the toes visible.
- Press the tape down gently with your hand and wait for 15 minutes for better use.
Take the tape off before you go to bed. If you have sensitive skin, put a Vorverpackung under the sports tape for a hypoallergenic and comfortable effect.
Should Zinc Oxide Tape for Feet Be Your Go-To?
In reality, zinc oxide tape for feet is the go-to sports tape for athletes, hikers, or those who utilize their joints, such as wrists, knees, or ankles, often.
If you are looking for suitable sports tapes, such as zinc oxide tape and kinesiology tape, you can choose Aupcon. As a professional sports performance tape manufacturer, we provide wholesale and customization services. Aupcon will be your first choice for one-stop sourcing
