5 Tape Grades

According to Prentice (2024) and Perrin and McLeod (2019), athletic tape is graded based on four key characteristics which determine it overall performance and quality.

1. Fabric Weave Density:  The number of vertical and horizontal threads per square inch. A higher thread count results in stronger, more durable tape and indicates superior quality.
2. Tensile Strength: The amount of force tape can withstand before tearing. Tapes with a high tensile strength receive a higher grade.
3. Adhesive Quality:  This is evaluated by the adhesive’s strength, its resistance to movement and moisture accumulation, and its durability over time.  High-quality tapes often use medical-grade adhesives to ensure easy removal and minimization of skin irritation.
4. Material Composition:  Common materials include cotton, synthetic, and rayon. The material dictates the tape’s specific properties, such as breathability, moisture resistance and flexibility.