Why do NFL Players Have White Tapes on Their Arms? (Find out today!)

Simply to prevent turf burns! NFL games are naturally played on a turf field and its aggressive nature calls for safety-related innovations to enhance the protection and safety of players. The white tape worn by NFL players is a protective guard against an inevitable burn or scratch a player can suffer while landing on the turf during games.

The grueling and violent nature of the NFL often leads to serious injuries and players must wear appropriate guards to reduce physical injuries to the barest minimum. Several protective wears are worn by NFL players during injury crises and the turf tape is up there as one of the most effective in terms of limiting physical injuries.

In this article, we take a detailed look into why NFL players wear white tapes on their arms and the other purposes served by the turf tapes. Let’s journey together!

What is the white tape worn by NFL players and what are they made of?

Specifically, the white tapes worn on the arm of NFL players are also known as kinesiology tapes. Materials used to make these tapes include mesh and adhesives to ensure a strong grip to avoid easy fall-off on contact during games. They are easily accessible for purchase in a sports shop and come at a pocket-friendly price. Aside from the fact that it is inexpensive, the grip it offers and its pressure sensitivity are reasons it is the main preference for professional players.

Are turf tapes only white in color?

There are no rules guiding the selection of color for turf tapes in the NFL rule book. But recently White turf tapes is the most used and preferred color for players due to the introduction of regulations on color and accessories by NFL. However, there are several occasions where black tapes are used by players during NFL games.

What will the tape protect you from?

As stated earlier, NFL is an endearing game that involves physical challenges which can potentially lead to serious injuries. Turf tape is a form of protection against abrasions and bruises that may occur from a  serious turf landing. The arm’s skin of NFL players are usually exposed and this tapes are particularly worn on the arms as a protective means against burns and turf wounds.

Where can I use turf tapes?

As a grueling game, any means of protection to prevent or limit injuries for players is expected to be handled with an utmost priority.  Turf tapes are a great piece for turf related injuries and can be worn on the arms and the knees as well. This strands of tape serves as a cover for the exposed part of the player’s body and limits their chances of suffering severe bruises and burns during games.

Will turf tapes come off during contact?

Literally no! Turf tapes are made with materials that guarantee grips that stick tightly to the skin of players. It is an effective piece that barely falls off as players bumped into each other at high speed during games. In addition to that, the material is sweat resistant and its durability is affected by dirt.

What other purposes do turf tapes serve?

 Aside from preventing abrasions and burns, the turf tapes are also effective as an alternative for socks, which must be worn by players during games. Furthermore, some players chose not to wear long sleeves for comfort reasons. Turf tapes serve as an alternative option in that regard and it also helps players to hold a protective elbow without restriction.

What are turf burns?

NFL games are played on grass turf and as a high-energy sport that requires absolute physicality, players often suffer varying degrees of injuries. Turf burn is a common injury in the world of sport and is particularly a usual occurrence in NFL games. This injury occurs when a player grazes against the grass or hit the ground at high speed. The resulting injury from such is usually skin cuts, bruises, or abrasions which are also known as turf burns. Timely medical attention is needed to prevent such from leading to grievous infections.

What brand of turf tapes do NFL players use?

Through the years, Turf tapes have gradually become an important piece of kit for NFL players. There are several manufacturing brands to choose from considering their durability and consistency. One of the most used turf tape brands is the McDavid HEX tape. This particular brand is designed to control and prevent skin burns and is available in rolls that can be easily divided into different lengths and sizes.

What position in NFL requires players to wear turf tape?

In general terms, all players can wear turf tapes regardless of their position. Players that receive more tackles such as wide receivers and running backs usually wear turf tapes and defensive players do wear them as well as a preventive measure against turf burns.

FAQs

Below is a compiled list of frequently asked questions on why NFL players wear white tapes on their arms. Let’s take a look at them!

What is the tape NFL players wear on their arms?

The white tape is called turf tapes and it’s a protective guard against skin abrasions and other field-related injuries.

Why do NFL players wear a towel in their pants?

NFL kits are heavy equipment and sweating is inevitable for players during games. Towels are worn on their hips to keep their arms dry during the games.

Why do NFL players wear one sleeve?

This is well known for its health benefits and has grown in popularity over the years. It is also called a compression sleeve and it helps in the player’s recovery and enhances performance.

Why do NFL players wear gloves?

Simply to improve the catching ability and traction of the ball. Naturally, Gloves contain a  tacky substance that enables a better grasp of the leather and is mostly worn by NFL players in wide areas of the position. 

Closing thoughts

White tapes are also known as turf tapes and they are worn by NFL players. Strictly to above turf burns and skin abrasions. It’s a highly effective piece of clothing worn on the arms and knees of the players a protective guard against turf and other field-related injuries. 

We have come to an end of this informative article and we hopefully believe this article has provided enough resources to answer all your queries about the article topic. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more questions.

Thanks!

Hi! I’m Alex PT. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management from Indiana University and have over seven years of valuable experience working in a Sports Event Management Company. I founded SportBlurb with the passion for bringing you the latest, most insightful, and engaging content in the world of sports. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or want to stay informed, I’ve got you covered!

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