Taping a hockey stick has given players advantages for decades. However, there are numerous ways to do it. Some players like their blade fully taped, while other players like just a piece of the blade covered in tape. Some players don't even tape their blade. The way you tape your blade should be based on your style of play, your preference and the comfort you feel when handling the puck.
Heel to Toe
Starting at the heel of the blade, unroll the tape and slowly put it on the blade. The technique should be to place the tape so about half of the new piece is on the stick and half is on the last piece of tape put on the blade. Continue until the tape reaches the toe of the blade, then cut the tape.
Toe to Heel
Some people say taping the stick from toe to heel keeps the tape much neater. If you decide to tape it this way, the technique should be to place the tape so about half of the new piece is on the stick and half is on the last piece of tape put on the blade. Continue until the tape reaches the heel of the blade, then cut the tape.
Middle of the Blade
By taping a patch about 3 or 4 inches wide on the blade, it gives you a "sweet spot" in which to pass and shoot the puck from. It gives you more grip when handling the puck as well as when you release it.
Tape the Handle
Taping the top of the shaft of the stick gives you a better handle on the stick when holding it. Starting from about 4 or 5 inches from the top of the shaft, tape from the bottom up. When you get to the end, put a few extra layers of tape on the butt-end to give you an anchor to hold the stick on when skating. The thickness of the butt-end should be based on your preference and how comfortable you are.
Member Comments