How to put on boxing bandages – guide for both with and without thumb loops

Boxing bandages are one of the most important tools for boxers and kickboxers. They protect hands, knuckles, fingers and wrists against damage and extends the life of boxing gloves by absorbing sweat.

There are many ways to tie boxing wraps, and each has its own little tweaks and techniques. The point is to find your favorite – a method that gives you good support, comfort and security.

With or without thumb loop?

🔹 With thumb loop:

• Has a small loop that you attach around your thumb before you start slapping.

• Easy to get started with, especially for beginners.

• Provides a firm anchorage, but can be tightened more around the thumb.

🔹 Without thumb loop:

• Starts directly with lashing around the wrist.

• Preferred by many experienced athletes because it does not strain the thumb.

• A little more freedom in the starting point, but requires a little more technique in the beginning.

Method 1 – Traditional lashing (with thumb loop)

1. Fasten the loop around your thumb.

2. Wrap 2–3 times around the wrist for support.

3. Wrap up to the knuckles and cover a little of the fingers (first joint free).

4. Go back down towards the wrist.

5. Wrap it around your thumb once to secure it.

6. Continue wrapping around the wrists and knuckles until the bandage is used up.

7. Fasten with Velcro on the wrist.

Method 2 – Traditional lashing (without thumb loop)

1. Start with a few wraps around your wrist to secure the bandage.

2. Wrap up to the knuckles and cover a little of the fingers (first joint free).

3. Return to the wrist to secure the attachment.

4. Continue wrapping around the knuckles and wrist until the bandage is used up.

5. Fasten with Velcro.

💡 Tip: If you want to secure your thumb without a loop, you can add a couple of extra loops around your thumb after you have wrapped the knuckles.

Method 3 – Extra knuckle support

This can be done with or without a thumb loop. Perfect for hard sparring or if you want extra cushioning on your knuckles.

1. Start as in the traditional method (with or without loop).

2. After the first round around the knuckles: before the bandage between the little and ring fingers , fasten around the wrist.

3. Repeat between the ring and middle fingers, then the middle and index fingers.

4. Wrap back around the knuckles, then the wrist.

5. Fasten with Velcro.

How to put on boxing bandages – traditional method.

Other methods

There are many variations – some focus more on the wrists, others on the knuckles. You can watch videos, try different techniques and adjust to what feels best.

The goal is always the same:

• Stable wrist

• Protected knuckles

• Comfortable fit

What type of boxing bandage should you choose?

• Cotton: Firm support, less elastic.

• Elastic (Mexican style): More flexible, adapts to the hand.

• Short (2.5–3 m): Children and small hands.

• Long (4.5–5 m): Adults and those who want more support.

🎯 Remember: There is no one “right” method – find the one that suits you best. The most important thing is that the bandage fits securely and gives you confidence during training and matches.