Taping your hockey stick is a crucial part of preparing for a game or practice. It not only protects the stick but also enhances your grip and control. Here's a detailed guide on how to tape your hockey stick, covering the blade, handle, and butt end.
1. Preparing to Tape
Before you begin, gather your materials:
- Hockey stick tape (white or black, depending on preference)
- Scissors or a utility knife
- Wax (optional, for the blade)
Ensure your stick is clean and dry for the best adhesion.
2. Taping the Blade
The way you tape your blade can affect your puck control and shot. Here are a few methods:
Method 1: Heel-to-Toe
This is a common method that provides good coverage and feel.
Read also: Using Personalized Hockey Tape
- Start taping from the heel of the blade.
- Tightly wrap the tape along the blade, overlapping each strip slightly.
- Flip the stick over to cover both sides evenly.
- Continue until you reach the toe of the blade.
Some players prefer to completely cover the end of the blade to avoid chipping.
Method 2: Minimalist Approach
Some players prefer a minimalist, single-layer tape job on the blade to better feel the puck.
- Apply two strips of tape on the bottom of the blade first.
- Then, tape from heel-to-toe, where each strip is just barely overlapping the last strip.
With this method, players can feel the puck better, both as a goalie and skater.
Method 3: Outdoor Usage
For outdoor inline hockey, where the tape wears out quickly, consider these methods:
- Tape the blade normally.
- Cut the tape off the bottom of the stick with a utility knife.
- Tape the blade horizontally over the bottom of the blade a few times to keep the vertical tape strips from coming off.
- Apply wax on top.
This keeps the plastic part of the bottom of the blade on the ground instead of the tape.
Read also: Features of Custom Hockey Gloves
Additional Tips for the Blade
- Tape Color: Some players choose tape color based on visibility. Another aspect of deciding whether to use black or white tape on the blade, besides the goalie being able to see the puck on your stick, is your peripheral vision when handling the puck.
- Waxing: After taping, apply wax to the blade. I go heel to toe, starting real close to the heel, and taping over the toe, then I wax it. The wax helps protect the tape from moisture and ice, prolonging its life and improving puck control.
3. Taping the Handle (Grip)
The handle is taped to provide a comfortable and secure grip.
Method 1: Spiral Grip
- Start a few inches below where you typically hold the stick.
- Wrap the tape in a spiral pattern upwards, overlapping each layer slightly.
- Continue until you reach the desired height.
I tape my grip with the spiral type grip going counter clockwise.
Method 2: Pro-Wrap
- Apply lots of pro-wrap on the handle.
- Make sure the adhesive side is in.
Method 3: Tacki-Macs
Consider using Tacki-Mac grips for enhanced comfort and grip.
I recently made the switch to Tackimacs on the top of my stick, and so far I absolutely LOVE it. I'm using a black wrapped texture.
4. Taping the Butt End (Knob)
The knob at the butt end of the stick prevents your hand from slipping off.
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- Wrap a strip of tape around and around at the very top until the tape is about 1/2" thick.
- Consider the size of the player’s hand when taping the knob. For younger players with smaller hands, keep the knob smaller by splitting the tape in half or using a thinner strip.
I tape my grip with the spiral type grip going counter clockwise with about 4 layers of tape on the butt of the stick for a mall know just enough to feel in the palm.
5. Personalization
Players should take pride in how they tape their sticks. Add personal touches like:
- Writing your number on the tape.
- Adding a small symbol or design.
6. Choosing the Right Length
Having a stick that is too long or too short will drastically change the ability to control anything to do with the puck.
Standing without skates on, hold the stick close and parallel to your body. The length should be vertical when measuring. It should come to the bottom of your nose. On skates it will be right around the chin area.
7. Additional Considerations
Removing Old Tape
Begin by tearing off the most worn section of tape, typically at the heel of the blade.
Curve and Flex
The curve should be researched as to what specifically you want to do with it. Each curve has a specific thing it’s good at. Finding the curve that works best comes with time and practice. Most of the time in the beginning of a young hockey player’s career, a flat blade or slight, gradual curve is sufficient.
By following these steps and tips, you can tape your hockey stick like a pro, enhancing your performance and protecting your equipment.