Wrapping or taping a hockey stick can improve your grip and give you more control when shooting or passing the puck. It will also protect your stick and prolong its life. There is no rule that says you must tape your stick, but it is a tradition in hockey. The blade, the top part of the grip and the midpoint of the shaft are the usual spots for taping a hockey stick.
Step 1
Tape the top end of the stick, sometimes called the butt end. This will help keep your top hand in place and help you pick up the stick if you drop it. Start at the top and wrap it in a serpentine fashion about six to eight inches down the shaft. Then build up an inch-thick knob at the top end. This will keep your top end from slipping off the shaft when passing, shooting or receiving the puck.
Step 2
Wrap the spot on the stick where you usually keep your bottom or power hand. Pick out a six- to eight-inch spot where you usually have your bottom hand when you take a slap or wrist shot.
Step 3
Tape the blade. Some players tape the full length of the blade of the stick (about 11 inches), while others only tape a two- or three-inch area. This depends on what you are looking for. The tape will help cushion the blade of the stick when receiving the puck. Some players look at the tape the same way pool players think of chalking the cue tip: the tape helps keep the puck on course and prevents it from slipping off the blade.
Step 4
Change the amount of tape you have on the blade if you feel like your shot is being "softened" by the tape. Take an inch or two of length off if you want to get more force behind your shot without losing control of the puck.
Tips and Warnings
- Look at your stick after every game. If the tape looks like it is getting frayed, cut it off and redo it.
Things You'll Need
- Cloth tape
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