The purpose of the present study was to assess the mechanical characteristics of different types of tape utilized in neuromuscular taping (Kinesio Taping) during stress-strain tests, and find out whether the different brands and colours available in the market show different mechanical characteristics. A secondary purpose was to provide information related to the tape strain during the taping preparation, to optimize the taping effect.

Thirty-centimeter pieces of tape [Cure Tape (black, blue, red and pink), Sports Tex (black, blue and red), Kinsiotape (blue and red) and Kinesiology Tape (blue and red)] were cut and fixed. Then, progressive loads until the point of rupture were applied to calculate the stress-strain relationship for each tape.

The large variability found in the mechanical behaviour of the different tapes leads us to recommend the utilization of the same brand and colour for a given purpose. This will allow the physiotherapist to achieve an optimum tension level of the tape with a protocolized tape elongation.