Buying Guide

How to Wrap a Bat and Which Bat Grip You Should Use

Want to know which tape to use and how to wrap it to your baseball bat, find out in this buying guide.

Last updated: 29 January 2026 | 5 min read

Bat grip is important because it provides better control, comfort, and shock absorption during swings. The right grip helps players maintain a secure hold, reduces vibration and sting on mishits, and enhances overall performance by improving consistency and confidence at the plate. So before we start with explaining how to wrap a bat it is important to know which tape to use.

Different Types of Bat Grip

0.5mm Bat Grip

The 0.5mm grip gives you the closest feel to the natural bat handle, offering maximum feedback and connection with every swing. It’s ideal for players who like a lighter, quicker feel and want to sense each hit through the barrel. This type of grip is best designed to fit wood bats.

Pros:

Closest feel to a bar handle, great for wood bats.
Keeps the handle slim and responsive.

Cons:

Minimal vibration dampering.
less chusion, not ideal when playing in cold weather or for players who are sensitive to sting.

Recommended for contact hitters, power hitters who enjoy feedback on swings, and players transitioning from wood bats.

1.1mm Bat Grip

The 1.1mm grip offers the perfect balance between comfort and control. It’s the most popular choice among players of all levels, providing a reliable combination of tack, feel, and durability when batting. This type of grip is designed to best fit composite or aluminum bats.

Pros:

Comfortable chusion without bulk.
Good vibration absorption.
Performs well in all weather conditions.

Cons:

Slightly less feedback than thinner grips.

Recommended for all-round players who want a classic, balanced feel. It is the "safe choice" for consistent performance.

1.8mm Bat Grip

If comfort is your top priority, the 1.8mm grip provides a soft, padded feel that helps reduce sting and hand fatigue. It’s a great option for younger players, experienced players or anyone who prefers a smoother, more forgiving handle. This type of grip is designed to best fit composite or aluminum bats.

Pros:

Excellent shock absorption.
Reduces hand fatigue during long games.
Ideal for young players, experienced players who seek more confort over feedback.

Cons:

Slightly dampens bat feedback than thinner grips.
Can feel bulky for players who are used to thinner grips

Recommended for recreational players, youth players or experienced players who seek comfort. Also highly recommended for players with sensitive hands.

2.0mm Bat Grip

The thickest standard option, the 2.0mm grip for maximum cushion, delivers superior vibration dampening and comfort. It’s perfect for players who want a soft, controlled grip, especially in cold weather or when using metal bats that tend to sting more. This type of grip is designed to fit wood, composite or aluminum bats.

Pros:

Exceptional vibration absorption.
Extremely comfortable on mishit.
Great for beginners and slowpitch players.

Cons:

Increases handle thickness noticeably.
Slightly heavier, which may affect swing speed.

Recommended for players who prioritize comfort, slow-pitch softball players, or those sensitive to vibration.

How To Wrap A Bat

How to Wrap a Baseball or Softball Bat Grip

Step 1: Remove the Old Grip

If necessary, the first step is to remove the old grip from your baseball or softball bat. You do not want to put the new grip above the old because it will affect the thickness and your performance on the field. This should be done gently to avoid damaging the bat. A good technique is to carefully slice through the old grip with a box cutter and then peel away the grip slowly. Be careful when using a knife so you don't scratch the handle. Using a hair dryer can help soften the adhesive and make it easier to peel the old bat grip off.

Step 2: Clean Your Bat

When you've removed all of your old grip, it is time to start cleaning your bat. This is necessary because it will remove all leftover adhesive from the bat handle. It is advised to use adhesive remover or a simple rubbing alcohol pad to clean the handle. Cleaning the bat ensures that your new grip will stick smoothly and evenly when you apply it.

Step 3: Start Wrapping Your Bat

Now it is time to start wrapping your bat. You always start at the knob of your bat. Place the edge of the grip firmly to the butt of the bat, then begin wrapping upwards in a spiral formation, while keeping consistent tension. Keep your hands close to the bat to control the tension. When doing this, try to peel back the backing tape a little at a time so it doesn't fold over or stick incorrectly. Overlap the bat grip consistently between turns, too little overlap can create gaps, while too much adds bulk. Both of these outcomes can lead to performance regression.

Step 4: Wrapping Direction

It is important to know which direction you should wrap your grip. If you're a left-handed batter, you should wrap your grip in a clockwise direction. If you're a right-handed batter, you should do the opposite and wrap the grip counter-clockwise. This will ensure that the grip aligns best with your fingers, providing a better and more secure grip when batting.

Step 5: Finish Wrapping with Finishing Tape

When you've finished wrapping the tape to the end of the handle, ensure the grip fits well. To keep the grip in place, secure the end of the bat tape with a strip of finishing tape. You could also use electrical tape, or even both. Apply electrical tape at the end of the bat grip and then put the finishing tape directly over it. Make sure the finishing tape is not stretched and avoid touching the adhesive for the best finish.

Testing the Grip

Now that you're done wrapping your bat, it is time to test it out. Make sure the grip feels comfortable and firm in your hands. Don't hesitate to start the process over again if it doesn't feel right until you've found the perfect fit. Like mastering any new skill, it will almost never be perfect the first time, so keep trying until you've perfected the skill of wrapping a bat the way you like it. Practise makes perfect! If you want your wrapping to be a little thicker, you can apply a base layer of finishing tape underneath the grip tape.

Wrapping a Wood Baseball Bat

When wrapping a wood baseball bat, you should approach it differently due to the material and handling requirements. Wood bats benefit from a thinner grip to maintain sensitivity and the natural feel of the handle, allowing players to get better feedback when swinging the bat. You should start wrapping at the bottom of the handle and wrap tightly upwards. Unlike other bats, make sure the grip has minimal overlap to ensure a smooth and even layered effect for balance.