Why do some rugby players wear wrist tape?

Question

I've always wondered and if it is solely to support the wrists I don't get why you need to support your wrists so much. Are there any other reasons for taping wrists up?

Answer 1

Victor Matfield uses it to keep his steel rods hidden....

Answer 2

because if you get knocked down, whats the first thing you normally do?  You brace yourself with your wrists to break the fall.  That sport is very rough and you get knocked down alot.  If you get knocked down, the tape will prevent the wrist from snapping and breaking the bone  

Answer 3

Chad C is quite right.

However, as an old time rugby player, one would put something like thin cardboard around the wrist and then tape it. Makes a lovely imprint when the tackle is made using the arm(or thereabouts). All accidental of course.

Answer 4

I Agree, half Of the fowards in my team do it to try and look cool

Answer 5

I've played a lot of rugby for some good teams and my honest opinion on wrist tape is that it does nothing to prevent injuries. The guys I have played with that strap their wrists do it because they are a bit nervous and just do it to give them something to do while in the changing room before a game. I know this sounds nuts but it is a genuine reason why some of the guys I've played with strap their wrists.

Answer 6

to protect their watches

Answer 7

To nurse a sprained wrist.

Answer 8

To stop yourself from hyper extending your wrist. It also helps with injuries.