A tape element having at least a first layer containing a first thermoplastic polymer, at least one crack propagation channel in a surface of the tape and at least one ripstop ridge in a surface of the tape. The crack propagation channel has an aspect ratio of width to depth of between about 1:5 and 10:1, has a depth at least 10% of the thickness of the tape in the segments, and extend along at least a portion of the length of the tape. The ripstop ridge has an aspect ratio of width to height of between about 1:5 and 10:1, has a height at least 10% of the thickness of the tape in the segments, and extends along at least a portion of the length of the tape. Rubber articles containing the tape element are also disclosed.