Have you ever wondered why NFL football players are often seen with tape wrapped around their arms? It’s not just for show! This article will delve into the reasons why football players wear tape on their arms and the benefits it provides.

What Is The Tape On Football Players Arms?

That white ribbon you see on the arms of football players is called turf tape or Kinesiology tape. It is specially designed with a textured adhesive that sticks firmly to hands and arms. The high grip of this athletic tape ensures that it stays in place throughout the game.

Typically, players wear Kinesiology tape from the back of their tricep all the way to their wrist. This tape serves as a protective barrier against scratches and cuts caused by the roughness of artificial turf.

In the past, football games were often played on natural grass. However, as the sport evolved, artificial turf became more prevalent due to its easier maintenance. While artificial turf offers advantages in terms of manageability, it is also rougher and sharper than natural grass. This increases the likelihood of players experiencing scratches and minor cuts when they slide or fall on the field.

Arm Protection

Turf burn is a common issue when players come into contact with the turf surface at high speed. It feels like a scratch that burns the skin. If left untreated and exposed to sweat and bacteria, turf burn can lead to infection.

Wearing turf tape helps prevent turf burn, especially in vulnerable areas like elbows and lower knees that may come into contact with the ground without proper coverage. Additionally, the tape acts as a shield against dirt and sweat, reducing the risk of infection.

For those who prefer alternatives to Kinesiology tape, turf sleeves are available for elbows and knees. These provide protection without the discomfort of wearing long sleeves or spandex underpants in hot weather.

The Kamara Effect

The popularity of turf tape, particularly the white Kinesiology tape, can be attributed to star running back Alvin Kamara of the New Orleans Saints. Kamara has been sporting tape on his arms in almost every game, sparking intrigue among fans.

Some theories suggest that Kamara wears the tape for protection during the game, considering his bold and robust playing style that often involves sliding on the grass. Others believe it serves as a signature style for Kamara, allowing family and friends to easily identify him on the field. There’s even a playful notion that the tape helps Kamara run faster, often referred to as “racing stripes.”

Regardless of the reasons, Kamara has become an inspiration for young football players who now embrace the trend of wearing turf tape as a fashion statement and a means of protection.

Which football positions wear turf tape on their arms?

Turf tape is commonly seen on the arms of NFL players in positions where collisions and ground contact are frequent. Wide receivers and running backs are the players who wear tape the most. Offensive linemen also use turf tape to protect their hands when they regularly touch the ground.

Defensive positions, such as linebackers and defensive linemen, also benefit from wearing turf tape due to the physical nature of their roles on the field. Protection is paramount in a high-impact sport like football, and turf tape provides an extra layer of defense.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the main reasons football players wear tape on their arms are to protect against turf burns when sliding on the field and for aesthetic appeal. Turf tape, whether in the form of Kinesiology tape or turf sleeves, serves as a valuable protective device that every player should consider using.

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Note: This article is purely for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for specific concerns.