Boxing is an intense and popular form of training that can be adapted for both beginners and professional athletes. But one of the most important elements of any training session is protecting your hands, wrists and knuckles – and that is where boxing hand wraps come in.
How to wrap boxing hand wraps – step by step
Watch Hayabusa's video for a visual walkthrough of the technique: How to wrap boxing hand wraps.
- Start with the thumb
Hold one end of the wrap with your dominant hand. Place your other hand palm down and spread your fingers well apart. Place your thumb on the wrap and make a loop around it to secure the starting point.
- Around the wrist, at least three times
Wrap tightly around the wrist, at least three times. This is the foundation of the whole wrap – it should sit well, but without cutting off your blood circulation.
- Around the thumb and wrist again
Circle the thumb once more, then go around the wrist three more times. Now you are ready to start on the knuckles.
- Over the knuckles, two to three times
Wrap from right to left across the palm, two to three times. Always bring the wrap back around the wrist between each round to keep the tension even.
- Between the fingers, and fasten
Guide the wrap between your middle and ring fingers, across the palm and over the top of the thumb. Cover the knuckles once more and make a final round around the wrist. Fasten with the velcro.
Four types of boxing hand wraps
Why do boxers use hand wraps? The benefits are clear: they prevent injuries, keep the hands and wrists in the correct position, and contribute to better performance. Here are the four types you will come across, and what sets them apart.
| Type | Suitable for | Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elastic (Mexican style) | Most people, including beginners | Adapts to the hand, does not loosen during the session | Loses stretch after many washes |
| Reusable cloth wrap | Regular club training | Cost-effective, many lengths and colours | The velcro weakens over time |
| Tape and gauze | Competition and pro | Best protection, light | Single use, requires technique |
| Inner gloves / quick wraps | Quick training and bag work | On in seconds | Less wrist support than real wraps |
Elastic – easiest to get right
Stretches and moulds to the hand. The safest first purchase if you have never wrapped your hands before.
Classic cloth wrap
A solid workhorse for regular club training. Available in several lengths – 4.5 metres suits most adults.
Longer version for large hands
Extra length gives more rounds around the wrist. Good if you have large hands or want maximum support.
When you are short on time
On in seconds with soft knuckle protection. Practical for bag work, but gives less wrist support than real wraps.
Feel free to try different types to find what suits you best. Many prefer one type for training and another for sparring or competition. See the full range of boxing hand wraps.
What should you look for in a good boxing hand wrap?
Quality and comfort are the two most important qualities. A good boxing hand wrap should:
- Have the right amount of stretch – enough to adapt to the hand, but not so much that it loses support
- Fit hands of all sizes
- Stay in place throughout the training session
- Be breathable and comfortable against the skin
- Withstand repeated washing without losing shape or elasticity
All types of boxing hand wraps can also be used as Muay Thai wraps, MMA wraps and kickboxing wraps – depending on which martial art you practise.
Frequently asked questions about boxing hand wraps
Do you have to wear hand wraps under boxing gloves?
It is strongly recommended. Hand wraps protect the hands and wrists from injury, and absorb sweat so the gloves last better over time.
Can you use hand wraps without gloves?
Yes – for light pad work or shadow boxing, wraps alone can provide sufficient support. When hitting a bag or sparring, you should always wear gloves as well.
What is the difference between Mexican-style and regular boxing hand wraps?
Mexican-style wraps are made of elastic material that stretches and adapts to the hand. Regular cloth wraps are less stretchy, but provide good support and are very durable.
How long should boxing hand wraps be?
For most adults, 4.5 metres is the best length. It gives enough material to wrap properly around the wrist, knuckles and fingers. Children and young people with smaller hands usually manage with 2.5 to 3.5 metres.
Can boxing hand wraps be used in Muay Thai and MMA?
Yes – boxing hand wraps are used in all striking martial arts, including Muay Thai, kickboxing and MMA. The technique is almost identical regardless of the sport.
How do I wash boxing hand wraps?
Roll them out, fasten the velcro to itself and wash at 30 degrees in a laundry bag. Air dry – a tumble dryer quickly ruins the elasticity.
