I didn't wrap the pipes for performance, or looks per say. After I layed it down, not so gently, the wraps were the cheapest solution to hide the scratches and a small dent on the left side. Same deal with the powder coat on the EPCOs, it covered some minor scratches on the slip ons. I'm a cheap S.O.B. and I know it. After about 5k, I haven't seen any adverse affects from the wraps.