People all over the world have started wearing rubber wristbands in the last couple of years. People wear them for a variety of reasons; for example, they can show support a cause while providing money for charity. Rubber wristbands are inexpensive to make and are a great way to raise awareness about a societal issue or medical problem.

Rubber wristbands are a solid loop of rubber that can be stretched in order to be slid over a person’s hand and worn on the wrist. The bands are strong, durable, and waterproof; many people leave their rubber wristbands on at all times. The wristbands come in nearly any color imaginable, including yellow, black, green, blue, and translucent, among many others.

Particular colors of rubber wristbands can represent certain issues or charities. Perhaps the most famous is the yellow “Livestrong” wristband. Champion bicyclist and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong first designed these bands in early 2004 to raise money and awareness of his cancer foundation. Now, similar bands come in a variety of colors representing different issues. Some of the most prominent are pink bands to represent breast cancer and red bands to represent Tsunami Aid and the Red Cross. Other popular rubber wristbands are green or camouflage bands showing support for the United States troops and solid black bands that serve as a memorial to slain heavy metal guitarist Darrell “Dimebag” Abbott.

Wristbands are usually relatively inexpensive to make. Most manufacturers offer discounts to organizations that order 500 or more wristbands. The bands are imprinted with a slogan or organization name. The bands are usually sold to consumers for around a dollar apiece.

Rubber wristbands are more popular than ever. People of all ages wear them to show their awareness and support of a variety of worthy causes.