Introduction
You’re staring at two rolls of tape. They both look tough. They’re both 38mm. One costs a bit more than the other. So, what’s the actual difference?
At Pillar Sports, we don’t believe in “good” and “bad” tape. We believe in the right tool for the job.
Whether you are a weekend warrior, a physiotherapist, or playing Tier 1 Rugby, your strapping needs are different. Today, we are breaking down the technical differences between our best-selling Standard Rigid Tape and our brand new, elite-tier Pro Rigid Tape.
The Comparison: At a Glance
| Feature | Standard Rigid Tape | Pro Rigid Tape (New) |
| Best For | Training, Juniors, Sensitive Skin | Match Day, All Weather Proof, Elite Contact |
| Adhesive | Zinc Oxide (Latex-Free) | Premium Latex Adhesive |
| Stick Level | Strong (Gentle on skin) | Aggressive (Maximum Hold) |
| Water Resistance | Sweat Resistant | Fully Waterproof |
| Core Color | White Inner Roll | Black Inner Roll |
| Hand Tear | Easy | Easy (Smooth Unwind) |
| Price | Value Friendly | Premium Investment |
The Adhesive: Latex vs. Latex-Free
This is the biggest technical difference.
- Standard Rigid (White Core):
We use a Zinc Oxide, Latex-Free adhesive. This is designed to be hypoallergenic. It provides excellent support without irritating sensitive skin. It’s perfect for junior athletes, school sports, or players who tape frequently for light training and want to avoid skin rash. - Pro Rigid (Black Core):
We use a Premium Latex Adhesive. Why? Because latex offers a “stick” that synthetic glues just can’t match. It anchors to the skin immediately and hardens effectively for maximum joint immobilization.- Note: If you have a latex allergy, stick to our Standard Rigid.
Water Resistance: Sweat vs. Rain
- Standard Rigid:
Designed to handle a standard 60-minute training session. It is sweat-resistant, meaning it won’t peel off with normal perspiration. However, in heavy rain or extreme humidity, it may loosen over time. - Pro Rigid:
Engineered to be Hydrophobic. The latex adhesive and treated fabric repel water. You can apply this tape before a game in the pouring rain, play 80 minutes of rugby, and it will still be locked on when you walk into the showers.
The “Tier 1” Factor
Our Pro Rigid isn’t just a marketing name. It is the exact specification of tape used by Top 20 World Rugby National Teams.
When the impact forces are high performance, you need a tape with higher tensile strength that will not stretch under load. Pro Rigid provides that “zero-fail” security that elite athletes demand.
So, Which One Should You Buy?
Choose Standard Rigid Tape if:

- ✅ You have sensitive skin or a latex allergy.
- ✅ You are taping for general gym sessions, light training.
- ✅ You are a club physio looking for a high-quality, cost-effective daily tape.
Choose Pro Rigid Tape if:

- ✅ It is Match Day.
- ✅ You are playing high-impact contact sports (Rugby, MMA, Judo).
- ✅ The conditions are wet, muddy, or extremely humid.
- ✅ You need the absolute strongest hold possible for an unstable joint.
How to Use It
Whether you choose Standard or Pro, the application technique is key to a secure hold. Check out our expert guides to get the perfect strap:
- Ankle Stability: [Check guide here]
- Thumb Check: [Check guide here]
- Knee Support (MCL): [Check guide here]
Final Verdict
Think of it like this: Standard Rigid is your reliable daily driver. It gets you through training comfortably and safely. Pro Rigid is your race car. It comes out when performance matters most, when the weather turns bad, and when you can’t afford to slip.
Ready to feel the difference?
Grab a trial roll of Pro Rigid today and see why the Pros use it.
