Hand wraps support the wrist and knuckles under gloves. Adults usually use 180-inch wraps, which cover the wrist and knuckles with room to spare; 120-inch wraps suit kids and small hands. Elastic Mexican-style wraps conform to the hand, while cotton wraps are firmer. Quick wraps and gel wraps are faster but less adjustable. Wash wraps after every session.
Wraps go on before gloves for bag work, mitts and sparring.
Types
| Type | Feel | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Elastic (Mexican-style) | Conforms to the hand | Most popular |
| Cotton | Firm, no stretch | Traditional |
| Quick wraps | Fast to put on | Less adjustable |
| Gel wraps | Padded | Not a substitute for gloves |
Lengths
| Length | Who |
|---|---|
| 120 in | Kids, small hands |
| 180 in | Most adults |
Basic wrapping steps
- Thumb loop on, wrap around the wrist a few times.
- Wrap the knuckles a few times.
- Weave between the fingers.
- Finish around the wrist and fasten.
Ask a coach to check your wrap.
Related: boxing glove size chart.
Common questions
How long should boxing hand wraps be?
180 inches is the common adult length. Children and small hands often use 120-inch wraps.
Mexican-style or cotton hand wraps?
Mexican-style wraps stretch and conform to the hand. Cotton wraps do not stretch and feel firmer.
Do I need hand wraps for MMA gloves?
Many fighters wrap under MMA gloves for training. Some use thinner or shorter wraps for fit.