Why do some football players tape over their shoes?

Injury prevention is a key reason why athletes tape their feet and ankles, particularly in sports that carry a high risk of injury because of contact. Ankle taping can also help enhance the healing of foot and ankle injuries and allow an earlier return to competition after injuries such as sprains or bruises. Including tape over the shoes, called spatting, can add additional support. (This answer provided for NATA by the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Education Program.)