Wrist wraps, or wrist grips, are one of the few “pieces of equipment” used by divers, and they are used to alleviate the constant pounding that occurs when a diver hits the water, in addition to preventing the hyperextension of the wrist.

The two most prevalent types of wrist grips in use today are the Donjoy Wrist Wraps and the Tiger Paw Wrist Grip Supports.

DonJoy Wrist Wraps

Donjoy Wrist Wraps consist of a nylon outer shell and a neoprene inner lining. The nylon shell is important as it is not only the diver that takes a beating when hitting the water, but also the wrist wrap itself.

Although divers always want to keep their arms locked in a stretching position, this is not always the case and the combination of the outer shell and neoprene keeps the impact that may occur with a divers head at a minimum.

These wrist wraps also include interchangeable foam inserts that vary the amount of support a diver may need, as well as opposing straps that keep the brace tight around wrist.

Tiger Paw Wrist Grip Supoorts

Tiger Paw Wrist Grip Supports also come with inserts to vary the amount of support for the diver, which are made of foam and hard plastic.

The wrist grip has a hole where the thumb is inserted and the wrap is then secured around the wrist by using three straps that attach to a velcro strip.

Recent models of the Tiger Paw supports have been made with a rubberized water proof material that will increase the longevity of the supports as well as cushion the blow if the wrists come into contact with the diver’s head during an entry.

Choosing a Wrist Support

Choosing a wrist grip comes down to personal preference, and trial and error. Some divers prefer the DonJoy while others prefer the Tiger Paw, and each come in sizes that vary from extra small to large.

The important aspect of choosing the correct wrist grips is to make sure that it fits securely around the wrist. A wrist grip doesn't do much good if it comes off every time you hit the water, or is not tight enough to prevent the hyperextension of the wrist.

One final point is that divers should understand that using a wrist grip or wrap is not a substitute for proper technique. Learning how to grab a proper flathand and how to hold a stretching position is infinitely more important than which wrist grip to use.