Other Uses For Route Setting Tape

Cloth route setting tape  (manufactured as gaffers tape) has been used for many years in the  industrial and construction industries for finger protection.  This use translates nicely to climbing sports where fingers and joints may need protection but the use of gloves or other protective measures interfere with the climber’s grip.

The tough cotton cloth fabric and synthetic adhesive used to manufacture route setting tape make it ideal for finger protection.  It is tough, sweat resistant and hand tearable.

One inch wide tape is particularly well suited for this task as it can protect a single joint of a climber’s hand without interfering with joint flexibility.

Route setting tape is stronger than athletic training tape and has a more aggressive  adhesive than medical adhesive tape.  It can even serve to hold a gauze pad in place if a temporary bandage is required.