A system for wound closure has at least two closure elements. One closure element is detachably tethered to another closure element. Each closure element includes: a base member with an integral strap hingably connected to the base member, and a lock member slidably disposed on the strap and being lockable on the strap. Alternatively, the base member defines a plane and the strap being affixed to the base member at an angle to the plane. The system may further include a wound covering disposed between the straps and the wound. The wound covering may be a laminate having at least two layers; a first layer is a moisture impervious layer adapted to contain body heat, and a second hydrophilic layer is adapted to retain moisture.