Standing Wraps & Recovery: Do’s, Don’ts, and Pro Tips | Draw It Out®

Standing Wraps & Recovery: Do’s, Don’ts, and Pro Tips | Draw It Out®

October 7, 2025
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Standing Wraps & Recovery: Do’s, Don’ts, and Pro Tips | Draw It Out®

Standing Wraps & Recovery: Do’s, Don’ts, and Pro Tips

Wraps can be a recovery superpower—when tension, padding, and product are dialed. Here’s the barn-smart guide to getting it right.

When Standing Wraps Help

  • After hauling: Manage routine stocking up from long periods of standing.
  • After hard work: Support tendons and help fluid move overnight.
  • At shows: Keep legs tidy between rounds without harsh additives.
Rule #1: Wraps support your routine—they don’t replace rest, movement, or veterinary care.

What to Put Under Wraps

A thin, even layer of a sensation-free, aloe-based gel helps comfort tissues without sting or strong odor, and it plays nicely with padding.

Product spotlight Use Draw It Out® 16oz Gel under wraps after the walk-down. It absorbs clean, won’t dry skin, and is ideal for daily or travel use.

Step-by-Step: Safe Standing Wrap

  1. Prep legs: Brush clean and towel dry. Check for heat, pain, or wounds.
  2. Apply gel: Smooth a thin coat over tendons, cannons, and around fetlocks.
  3. Padding on: Use quilted wraps or no-bows with even coverage—no wrinkles.
  4. Wrap direction: Apply standing bandage from inside to out, top to bottom, with even tension.
  5. Check fit: You should slide two fingers under; no gaps, no pressure points.
Pro tip: If you’re new to wrapping, practice with a trainer. Poor tension does more harm than good.
  • Time on: 4–12 hours post-work; up to overnight for travel swelling.
  • Recheck: Feel legs 15–20 minutes after wrapping for warmth or slipping.
  • Remove & reassess: Legs should look tight and cool. Reapply gel if stiffness lingers.

Common Mistakes (Avoid These)

  • Wrapping over wet or dirty legs.
  • Uneven tension—lumpy or “ropey” spots create pressure points.
  • Too much product under wraps (use a thin film).
  • Wrapping over open wounds without veterinary guidance.

When to Wrap vs. When to Just Walk

  • Mild puffiness from a short haul: Hand-walk 10–15 minutes; gel may be enough.
  • Persistent stocking up or heavy effort: Gel + properly applied wraps for several hours or overnight.
  • Heat, pain, one-sided swelling, or lameness: Call your vet before wrapping.
Shop Draw It Out® 16oz Gel

Need help picking a routine? Try the Solution Finder to match by workload and sensitivity.

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FAQs

How tight should standing wraps be?

Snug with even tension—never tight. You should slide two fingers under the bandage. Recheck 15–20 minutes later.

Can I haul with standing wraps on?

Only if experienced and properly applied. Poorly secured wraps can slip and cause injury. Many riders prefer to wrap upon arrival.

Is a no-tingle gel really necessary?

It helps sensitive horses relax and avoids skin irritation—key when wraps add contact and warmth for hours.

How long can wraps stay on?

Commonly 4–12 hours; overnight for stocking up. Always remove, check legs, and let skin breathe daily.

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