How to Put Grip Tape on a Bat

A common modification to baseball and softball bats is the addition of tape around the handle. Grip tape makes it easier to grip the bat and serves as a cushion to alleviate some of the pressure and vibration caused by impact with the ball. Grip tape eventually wears out or peels away with extended use, in which case it must be reapplied. While the amount of tape used depends partially on personal preferences, it's important to follow some basic guidelines.

Things You'll Need

  • Utility knife
  • 1000 grit sandpaper
  • Glue remover
  • Athletic tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Peel the original tape off the bat. It may be necessary to cut through the tape with a utility knife in some cases. Be especially careful with how deep you cut if the bat is made of wood.

    • 2

      Scrub all adhesive residue from the bat with 1000 grit sandpaper. Alternatively, moisten a washcloth with a liquid glue remover and scrub the residue until it comes off. Allow the bat to dry if you use the glue remover.

    • 3

      Hold the bat between your knees with the handle facing up.

    • 4

      Position the sticky side of an athletic tape roll against the bat, snug against the knob of the handle. Wrap one full rotation just below the knob, then slowly wrap at an angle down the length of the handle until you reach your desired location. The tape must be wrapped far enough that both hands are on it when you grasp the bat.

    • 5

      Wrap a second layer over the first layer if desired. The tape should provide padding, but should not be so thick that it drastically changes the thickness of the bat.