Taping Your Aerial Hoop: A Grip Guide for Optimal Performance

Taping your aerial hoop is an essential step for both comfort and performance. At Aerials USA, we want to ensure you have the knowledge and tools to properly tape your lyra for a secure and enjoyable aerial experience.

Why Tape Your Hoop?

  • Enhanced Grip: Grip tape provides extra friction, allowing you to maintain a secure hold on the hoop, even during dynamic movements or when your hands get sweaty.
  • Increased Comfort: The tape adds a layer of cushioning, reducing pressure and discomfort on your hands, wrists, and other body parts that come into contact with the hoop.
  • Protection: Tape helps protect the hoop’s finish from scratches and wear and tear, extending its lifespan.

How to Tape Your Aerial Hoop:

  1. Clean the Hoop: Start by thoroughly cleaning the hoop with a solvent like rubbing alcohol to remove any dirt, oil, or residue. This ensures the tape adheres properly.

  2. Gather Your Supplies:

    • Grip Tape: Choose a high-quality grip tape designed specifically for aerial hoops. We offer a variety of colors at Aerials USA!
    • Scissors: For cutting the tape.

  3. Start at the Bottom: Begin taping at the bottom center of the hoop (the 6 o’clock position if you imagine the hoop as a clock face).

  4. Overlap and Angle: Wrap the tape at a 40-degree angle, overlapping each layer by about one-third of the tape’s width. This creates a secure and even grip.

  5. Work Your Way Up: Continue wrapping the tape upwards, maintaining the overlap and angle, until you reach the top of the hoop.

  6. Finish and Secure: Cut the tape and firmly press the end down to secure it.

  7. Allow for Curing: If possible, let the tape cure for 36-48 hours before using the hoop. This allows the adhesive to fully set.

Tips for Taping:

  • Maintain Tension: Keep the tape taut as you wrap to avoid wrinkles or air bubbles.
  • Smooth as You Go: Use your fingers to smooth down the tape as you apply it to ensure good adhesion.
  • Avoid Gaps: Make sure there are no gaps between the tape layers, as this can create uneven grip and discomfort.
  • Consider Double-Taping High-Friction Areas: For areas that experience more friction, like the bottom of the hoop, you can apply a second layer of tape for extra grip and durability.

Shop for high-quality grip tape at Aerials USA:

Need help taping your hoop?

Our experts at Aerials USA are happy to provide guidance and tips for optimal taping. Visit Aerials USA to learn more about our products and services.