Everything you need to know about Guard-Tex self-adhering tape.
Product Basics
Guard-Tex is made of woven cotton coated with a cohesive compound that bonds to itself. It contains no latex and no adhesive that contacts skin.
No. Guard-Tex bonds to itself, not to skin or surfaces. When you remove it, there's zero sticky residue left behind.
Yes. Guard-Tex contains no natural rubber latex, making it safe for people with latex allergies.
No. Guard-Tex is non-stretch by design. This is a key feature—it maintains the tension you set during application, providing consistent support throughout use.
Guard-Tex comes in 3/4-inch and 1-inch widths, specifically designed for finger and hand wrapping. These narrow widths provide precise coverage without excess bulk.
Guard-Tex is made in the USA and has been since 1935. It's manufactured by General Bandages, Inc.
Usage & Performance
A single application typically lasts a full work shift or athletic session. Heavy abrasion will wear through it faster, but you can rewrap easily without residue issues.
Yes. Unlike adhesive tapes, Guard-Tex can be unwrapped and rewrapped. It maintains its cohesive properties through multiple applications.
Guard-Tex is water-resistant. It stays in place when wet and continues to bond to itself. However, it's not fully waterproof—extended submersion will eventually affect performance.
Guard-Tex is not a wound dressing. However, it's excellent for holding wound dressings in place without the adhesive trauma of medical tape. Apply a non-stick pad to the wound first, then wrap Guard-Tex over it.
Yes. Because Guard-Tex has no adhesive that contacts skin, it's ideal for sensitive, fragile, or elderly skin. It won't cause skin tears or adhesive trauma during removal. Learn more about healthcare uses.
Store Guard-Tex in a cool, dry place. Keep it in the original packaging or a sealed container to protect the cohesive surface from dust and debris.
Comparisons
The key difference is stretch. Coban is elastic and designed for compression wrapping. Guard-Tex is non-stretch and designed for finger and hand protection. Coban loosens under load; Guard-Tex maintains tension. Full comparison.
Athletic tape uses zinc oxide adhesive that sticks to skin, leaves residue, and can cause irritation with repeated use. Guard-Tex has no adhesive—it bonds only to itself. No residue, no skin irritation, no painful removal. Full comparison.
No. Vet wrap is elastic and designed for animal wound care. Guard-Tex is non-stretch, made of cotton, and designed specifically for human hand protection. Vet wrap loosens under load; Guard-Tex doesn't. Full comparison.