How to Wrap Hands for Boxing: Step-by-Step Guide

Hand wraps for boxing are the first line of defense to protect the hands, knuckles, and wrists from impact when training with a heavy bag or partner.

Step 1: For traditional hand wraps, start by wrapping the material two or three times around the wrist to build a foundation of support. 

Step 2: Next, wrap from the thumb, across the back of your hand, and around the wrist. Continue this pattern with each finger, leaving space between, and always wrapping around the back of the hand and wrist with each loop.

Step 3: Once your pinkie is wrapped, use any excess fabric to wrap the knuckles multiple times before securing it at the wrist.

There are multiple styles of hand wraps, all designed to protect the knuckles and wrists during combat. Now that you know the basics, here’s a boxing wraps guide to help you choose the best style for each type of training.

Hand Wraps for Bag Work

With heavy bag and mitt work with a coach or sparring partner, power punches require enough padding to absorb impact safely. 

Therefore, you’ll want full-coverage, bag work hand wraps reaching up to 180 inches of fabric, in addition to the padding received with boxing gloves.

Cotton or cotton-blend material is ideal to contribute to the elasticity and comfort of tightly wrapped hands. And additional fabric means more layers of protection for the knuckles.  

Fit-wise, hand wraps for boxing should hold securely in place while also leaving enough room to wiggle the fingers.

Hayabusa’s Perfect Stretch Hand Wraps deliver the stretch and support boxers need for intense boxing sessions. High-performance fabric combined with a starter thumb loop makes it easy to wrap the hands quickly and effectively.

Hand Wraps for Sparring

For sparring or drills focused on punching accuracy and speed, the recommended hand wrap length is between 180 and 200 inches to provide extra wrist stability during repeated contact. 

Many boxers like to alternate using traditional sparring hand wraps and quick gel hand wraps, particularly when switching between heavy bag and partner drills. 

Quick Gel Hand Wraps slip on like a glove and offer a hybrid of gel/foam padding for ultra-comfort and maximum protection. While these have less length than traditional cotton wraps, they still offer excellent wrist support and hand protection for boxing and Muay Thai.

Having multiple types of hand wraps makes it convenient and saves time to switch between the two different training purposes. 

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Tips for Wearing Hand Wraps

For beginner boxers, start slow while learning how to properly wrap the hands. Once you have the pattern down, every time will go quicker and quicker. Remember to:

• Wrap snugly but not too tightly to secure enough coverage without constricting blood flow
• Follow the same direction when wrapping the wrist and back of the hand multiple times for a comfortable fit
• Let hand wraps air dry after each session, and wash them regularly to prevent odor and bacteria
• Try quick gel hand wraps, which take seconds to wrap and offer similar padding protection

Secure the Wrists with the Right Wraps

Hand wraps are a necessary part of the fight gear you’ll need to stay protected and confident during boxing training. Give yourself enough time before each session to properly wrap your hands. 

Look for premium hand wraps for boxing made with exceptional padding and enough material to cover your knuckles and wrists effectively. 

Whether you opt for the traditional style of sparring hand wraps or a quick slip-on version, Hayabusa has you covered to make sure you’re ready for your next boxing challenge. 

Shop the Hand Wraps Collection and find your ideal fit today.