Comparison

Tubigrip alternative: what to look for

Tubigrip is a brand of elasticated tubular support bandage made by Mölnlycke. Tubular bandage is the product category. If you are looking for a generic Tubigrip or a cheaper alternative to Tubigrip, what matters is matching the measurement, not the letter on the box.

Do not carry the size letter across

This is the single most common mistake when switching brands. Size letters are not standardised across manufacturers. A size that fits from one brand may not fit from another, because each sets its own circumference range. Measure the area and use the chart of whatever you are actually buying.

Side by side

How a Tubigrip substitute compares

Both are the same category of product. The differences that matter are sizing, material and what comes in the box.

Medcore tubular bandage Tubigrip
Product type Medcore tubular bandage Elastic tubular support bandage Tubigrip Elastic tubular support bandage
Sold as Medcore tubular bandage Continuous roll, cut to length Tubigrip Continuous roll, cut to length
Sizing Medcore tubular bandage Nine sizes, A to K, each with a stated circumference range from 4 to 44 inches Tubigrip Lettered sizes with their own ranges, set by the manufacturer
Are the letters the same? Medcore tubular bandage No. Ours are set against our own chart Tubigrip No. Check the manufacturer's own chart
Material Medcore tubular bandage 80% cotton, 20% elastic Tubigrip Varies by product line, check the packaging
Latex Medcore tubular bandage Check the packaging of the product you receive Tubigrip Some lines contain natural rubber latex, check the packaging
Included Medcore tubular bandage A pair of bandage shears with every roll Tubigrip Varies by pack

Tubigrip is a registered trademark of Mölnlycke Health Care. Medcore is not affiliated with Mölnlycke, and this page is a factual comparison rather than a claim of equivalence.

What size Tubigrip do I need, and what is the equivalent here?

There is no reliable letter-for-letter conversion, and anyone offering one is guessing. Measure the circumference of the widest part of the area you want to cover, then match that number to our chart. Our nine sizes run from 4 inches at Size A to 44 inches at Size K, so the range is covered end to end.

Questions

Is there a generic Tubigrip?

Tubigrip is a brand name; elastic tubular support bandage is the category. Several manufacturers make the same type of product, ours included. There is no single generic equivalent, because sizing and materials differ by manufacturer.

Is there a cheaper alternative to Tubigrip?

Other manufacturers' tubular support bandages are often less expensive. Compare on circumference range, material and what is included rather than on price alone, and check whether shears come in the box.

Can I use my Tubigrip size to order here?

No. Measure instead. Size letters are not standardised between manufacturers, so the same letter can cover a different circumference range. Using a remembered letter is the most common reason a replacement does not fit.

Is it the same product?

It is the same category of product: a knitted elastic tube cut to length that provides support without tape or clips. It is not the same manufacturer, and compression figures published for one brand do not apply to another.

How to keep Tubigrip from rolling down?

Rolling is almost always a sizing or positioning problem rather than a brand problem. A bandage that rolls is usually too large, too short, or has lost elasticity with washing. Smooth out folds rather than leaving them, and replace it when it no longer returns to shape.

Can Tubigrip be washed, and can ours?

Washing instructions vary by manufacturer, so check the packaging. Ours are machine washable, and air drying is gentler on elastic than a tumble dryer.

Measure, then choose

Nine sizes, free US shipping, and a pair of bandage shears in every box. If you are between sizes or unsure, email us the measurement and we will tell you which one fits.