Using bat grip tape is a quick and easy way to enhance the synergy between you and your bat. This can improve your swing and help you hit more home runs!
First, secure your bat in a position that can’t move (either knob up or between your legs). Next, find a roll of tape you like and start wrapping.
1. Athletic Tape
Athletic tape is one of the most popular options for taping a bat. It’s typically used in collegiate and professional baseball because it provides minimal padding but is still thick enough to help support the handle. This type of tape is also thin enough that it won’t interfere with the swing, and it can be bought in a variety of colors and thicknesses to suit the player’s preferences.
The best part about using athletic tape to tape a bat is that it’s inexpensive and available in most stores. This makes it a great option for beginners or those who aren’t sure what type of tape they want to use. The downside to using athletic tape is that it doesn’t provide the same sting reduction or vibration dampening as other types of tape.
Another advantage to using athletic tape is that it can be cut to any length that the user prefers. This is ideal for those who are looking to customize their bats with unique designs or colors. Additionally, athletic tape is thin enough that it won’t interfere with most grips, allowing the user to switch out the existing grip for a different one without having to re-tape the entire bat.
Before starting to wrap a bat with athletic tape, it’s important that the player secures the bat in a position where it can’t move. This can be done by placing it knob up between the legs or securing it with a baseball grip. Once the bat is secure, the tape can be applied in a spiral starting at the knob. When applying the tape, it’s important to cover 50% of the previous layer and continue wrapping until the desired length of the bat is reached.
The last step in this process is to apply the finishing strip of tape. This should be done in the same spiral as the first strip and should cover at least 2 1/2 hand widths of the previous tape. This will prevent the bat from getting loose and also add a clean finish to the tape job.
2. Electrical Tape
For some players, a tape-wrapped bat is an essential piece of equipment to have. It gives a comfortable grip and helps reduce vibration and sting. But not all tapes are made equal, especially for a bat’s handle. It is important to consider the type of tape, the way you wrap it, and its durability.
Fortunately, there are several different kinds of bat grip tape that will help you get the job done. These include athletic tape, electrical tape, and batting tape. Regardless of which option you choose, following the directions for the proper installation is always important.
In order to properly install a new bat wrap, first, you should remove the old tape and wash the handle with water and soap. Once the bat is dry, you can start the process of taping it. There are many different ways to do this, so it is important to find the right technique for you.
The first step is to cut a strip of tape that is the same length as the bat. This will ensure that the tape is the same thickness throughout the entire handle. Next, begin wrapping the tape around the bat in a spiral pattern. Make sure that the tape overlaps about 50% of the previous layer and is not too tight. This will prevent the tape from fraying and eventually falling off of the bat.
When you are finished, you should cover the ends of the tape with a final layer to protect it from rubbing against your hands. Finally, you should add a thin strip of electrical tape at the bottom of the bat to ensure that it stays on.
While baseball players aren’t required to tape their bats, most do so in order to improve their game. This is because the tapes provide extra comfort and a better grip and help the bat last longer. In addition, tapes are available in a variety of colors and patterns to create an eye-catching design. In addition to being an aesthetic benefit, the tapes are affordable and easy to apply.
3. Grip Tape
Grip tape is used to provide a more comfortable grip and can help increase your bat speed. It’s available in a wide range of colors and patterns. You can find it at most sporting goods stores or online. It’s typically thicker than other tapes, which gives it more traction. It also comes with a rubber or foam backing that helps to cushion your hand.
To apply grip tape, begin with a clean bat and remove any old tape. Then, put on a pair of gloves and apply some residue cleaner to the handle. Once the cleaner is dry, sand the bat handle lightly using fine-grit sandpaper. This will help to prep the wood for the new tape and make it stick better.
Once the bat is smooth and ready to be taped, grab a roll of grip tape, and start at the end of the bat closest to the knob. Begin wrapping the tape in a spiraling motion, working towards the mark you made on the bat. It’s recommended that you wrap a right-handed bat in a counterclockwise fashion and a left-handed bat in a clockwise direction.
As you continue to wrap the tape, always overlap the last strip by about 50%. This will ensure that there is no wood showing between the layers of tape. Using a firm grip on the bat is also important when applying the tape. Once you’re done, your bat should look something like the top picture. Now you can finish by covering the ends of the tape with a horizontal strip.
Lastly, it’s also a good idea to tape the bottom of the bat. This will keep the tape from peeling off while you’re swinging the bat. However, keep in mind that bat tape won’t prevent your ash wood bat from deteriorating prematurely due to excessive moisture exposure or extreme temperatures. That’s why storing your bat properly is important and avoiding exposing it to harsh conditions.
4. Painter’s Tape
Painter’s tape is usually used for painting projects but also makes a great bat grip. It comes in many different widths and thicknesses, so there is a tape that will fit any bat. It is typically blue in color, which helps to identify it from other tapes. Most painter’s tape will feature a clean removal claim that lets you know how long the tape can be left up before it starts to leave residue behind. Using this information, you can select the right tape for your project.
When wrapping a bat, the first thing is to remove any previous tape from the handle. Next, sand the area with a piece of fine-grit sandpaper to get rid of any nicks and scrapes on the bat handle. Once the sanding is complete, use a solvent like Goo Gone or CleanUp Batter to remove any remaining residue.
After sanding and cleaning the bat, it’s time to add the new tape. Start on the top of the handle and work your way down the entire length. Then, apply the grip tape on either end of the bat.
While there are a lot of different options for bat tape, it is important to remember that only a few inches of tape are allowed in MLB play. If you put too much tape on a bat, you may be called out of the game.
Once the tape is applied, it’s important to ensure no rips or tears. This will help the grip to last longer and not slip. Then, the bat is ready to be used!
Whether you are a professional baseball player or just a weekend warrior, having the right bat grip is vital for your success. By following these simple steps, you can have a bat that is comfortable to hold and will give you the confidence to bring home the winning run! And if you ever have any questions about how to wrap a bat, don’t hesitate to ask a professional!