What Is Roller Derby Tape?

Because flat track derby competition always happens in multi-purpose facilities that host lots of different events, it is necessary to lay out the track for each event.  This is hard work and doing the job well requires planning, care, and the right tools.

Since paint is usually an unacceptable approach, due to its difficulty in removing, tape is the choice for laying out the playing surface.

The outer boundary of the track needs enough height for the skaters to be able to feel it with the wheels of their skates, and this is achieved by laying out rope and securing it with tape.  Cloth gaffers tape in a bright color is usually the first choice.  Standard inside track circumference is 148.5 feet and the outside circumference is 236.5 feet.  That means that 385 feet of rope and the same amount of cloth tape to cover it are necessary.

Additional tape is needed for the lines that are marked across the track.

Click here for dimensions and guidelines for laying out the track.