# How to Tape Fingers for BJJ (Step-by-Step)

- Link: https://pillarsports.com/how-to-tape-fingers-for-bjj/
- Published: 2026-02-23T15:48:16+08:00
- Author: PSL Media Team

Last updated on: March 10, 2026

## **Key Takeaways**

 * **The Grappler’s Two Essentials:** In BJJ, two methods are king: the **X-Tape**
   for preventing hyperextension during grip stripping, and **Buddy Taping** for
   managing sprains by using a healthy finger as a splint.
 * **The “X-Tape” Protection:** This technique creates a supportive “X” behind the
   knuckle. It protects your collateral ligaments from the high-tension demands 
   of Gi grips while still allowing you to close your fist completely for a tight
   squeeze.
 * **Mastering the Buddy Tape:** When training with a jam or sprain, tape the injured
   finger to its neighbor. The secret is leaving enough slack in the wrap so you
   can still bend your fingers to maintain your grip on the Gi or lapel.
 * **Don’t Overpay for “Finger Tape”:** Most BJJ-specific tapes are overpriced pre-
   cut strips. You can get the same result by using **25mm Rigid Tape** and splitting
   it down the middle to create custom-width strips.
 * **The Split Trick:** To save money, take a roll of 25mm Rigid Tape, make a tiny
   tear at the top, and pull. It will split perfectly into two 12.5mm strips—giving
   you double the tape for a fraction of the cost.
 * **Circulation Check:** Always ensure your tape is tight enough to stay on during
   intense rolling but loose enough to allow blood flow. A good rule of thumb: if
   you can’t make a tight, comfortable fist, it’s too restrictive.

There are dozens of ways to tape, but in BJJ, two methods reign supreme: The **“
X-Tape”** for prevention and the **“Buddy Tape”** for injury management.

We’ve curated the best tutorials from the community to show you exactly how it’s
done.

[**Read more on our blog about general Hand Taping.**](https://pillarsports.com/hand-taping/)

## **The “X-Tape” Method (For Prevention & Grip Support)**

_Best for: Protecting the collateral ligaments while maintaining full dexterity._

This method creates a supportive “X” over the joint, preventing it from hyperextending
when your grip is stripped, but still allowing you to close your fist completely.

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### **The Steps:**

 1.  Here’s a step-by-step guide to taping your fingers for BJJ, as shown in the tutorial:
 2.  **Start at the base:** Begin taping at the base of your finger, making a full 
     circle to create a secure base that won’t slip off (0:00-0:05).
 3.  **Tape behind the knuckle:** Flick your hand to see your palm. Take the tape right
     behind the knuckle (0:06-0:11).
 4.  **Cross over the top:** Flick your hand again and bring the tape straight over
     the top of the knuckle (0:15-0:17).
 5.  **Go between and make a circle:** Get the tape in between your fingers and go 
     across, then make another circle around the finger (0:17-0:22).
 6.  **Observe the cross:** Notice that the back of the tape is crossed over the knuckle,
     and the front goes straight across the two knuckles (0:22-0:28).
 7.  **Repeat for the second knuckle:** Apply the same technique for the second knuckle,
     making an “X” in behind it (0:28-0:34).
 8.  **Straight over the top:** Bring the tape straight over the top of the second 
     knuckle (0:34-0:37).
 9.  **Make an X:** Flip your hand again. You’ll be looking to make an “X” shape with
     the tape (0:39-0:43).
 10. **X behind the back:** Cross the tape in an “X” behind the back of the finger (
     0:43-0:45).
 11. **Straight across and second X:** Go straight across the finger, flick it, and
     make your second “X” (0:45-0:52).
 12. **Finish at the base:** Bring the tape straight across and finish at the base 
     of the finger (0:52-0:58).

**Note:** In these videos, you’ll see them using thin tape. You don’t need to buy
special ‘finger tape.’ Just grab our **[25mm Rigid Tape](https://pillarsports.com/product/rigid-tape/)**,
tear a small strip at the top, and peel it down. It’s cheaper and gives you the 
exact same result.

## **The “Buddy Tape” Method (For Sprains)**

_Best for: Training with a jammed or sprained finger._

This method turns your injured finger and a healthy neighbor into a single, reinforced
unit. We’ve selected this tutorial because it specifically addresses the **grip 
mechanics** of BJJ/Judo—ensuring you don’t tape them so tight you can’t grab the
Gi.

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### Here are the steps for buddy taping your fingers for BJJ and Judo:

 1. **Start on the “buddy” finger** (0:25-0:31): Begin by wrapping the tape a couple
    of times around the finger you’re taping _to_.
 2. **Create the initial X-wrap** (0:31-0:49): Come up from the initial wrap and create
    a normal “X” pattern over the knuckle that needs support. This “X” is crucial as
    it prevents the tape from sliding off.
 3. **Continue wrapping with slack for bending** (0:52-1:07): Wrap the tape back down,
    making sure to leave enough slack so you can still bend your finger. Then, create
    another “X” pattern to secure this wrap.
 4. **Bring the X back down** (1:13-1:19): Continue the wrapping, ensuring the “X” 
    pattern helps to keep the tape in place.
 5. **End the tape at the same spot** (1:21-1:29): To make it easier to remove later,
    try to end the tape at the same spot on both fingers.
 6. **Position the tape break on top** (1:32-1:34): If possible, position the break
    in the tape on the top of the finger for easier removal.
 7. **Check for circulation and mobility** (1:36-1:44): Make sure you can still close
    your hand and that there is good circulation. It’s recommended to tape it a little
    tighter than you think, as it will loosen over time, but always ensure you can 
    make a nice, tight fist.

**_Note:_**_In these videos, you’ll see them using thin tape. You don’t need to 
buy special ‘finger tape.’ Just grab our _**_[25mm Rigid Tape](https://pillarsports.com/product/rigid-tape/)_**_,
tear a small strip at the top, and peel it down. It’s cheaper and gives you the 
exact same result._

[[

## **The “Economy” Hack: 25mm vs. Finger Tape**

Most “BJJ specific” finger tape is pre-cut to 10mm width and can be pricey.

**The Pro Move:** Buy **Pillar Sports 25mm Rigid Tape** and use the “Split Trick.”

 1. Take your 25mm roll.
 2. Make a tiny tear at the top edge, right in the center.
 3. Pull firmly—the tape will split perfectly down the middle, giving you **two** 12.5mm
    strips for the price of one.

**[Shop 25mm Rigid Tape Here](https://pillarsports.com/product/rigid-tape/)**