How to Wrap a Hockey Stick: A Comprehensive Guide

Wrapping your hockey stick is an important step to enhance your control, feel, and overall performance. This guide covers everything you need to know, from materials to the detailed process, ensuring you achieve the best grip and control possible.

Materials Needed

Hockey grip tape, usually 1-inch wide Scissors (optional)

Steps to Wrap a Hockey Stick

Prepare the Stick: Clean the area of the stick where you'll be applying the tape, ensuring it's free of dust, dirt, and oils. Start at the Bottom: Begin wrapping the tape at the bottom of the stick, furthest from the blade. This is typically the most critical area for grip. Angle the Tape: Hold the tape at a slight angle as you start wrapping to create a more comfortable grip. Overlap the Tape: Wrap the tape around the stick, overlapping each layer by about half the width of the tape to ensure even coverage and prevent gaps. Continue Upward: Keep adjusting the angle and tension as you wrap the tape upward toward the blade. Cut the Tape: Once you reach the desired height, cut the tape and press the end firmly to secure it. Smooth Out: Run your fingers along the tape to ensure it's smooth and securely attached without any bubbles or wrinkles.

Additional Tips for Wrapping

Choose color and style: Consider your team or personal style. Some players like to use multiple colors for a unique look. Experiment to find what works best for you.

Thickness of the tape: Some prefer thicker grips while others like a thinner feel. You can layer the tape to find the perfect balance for your playing style.

Blade Tape: Additional tape can be wrapped around the blade for added grip and control, especially for puck handling. The width and thickness matter, and these choices depend on your playing style and preferences.

Wrapping the Blade

To wrap the blade, you'll need cloth tape, scissors (or a sharp knife), and stick wax (or old candle wax). Follow these detailed steps:

Select an appropriate color of tape: The right tape can make your gear instantly identifiable, helping you and your teammates recognize your stick in a crowd. Color choices vary based on player preference and need. Apply tape to the bottom of the blade: Before wrapping, apply tape to the bottom edge which skates along the ice. Center the tape and ensure the blade remains smooth, filing down any burrs if necessary. Start at the toe or the heel of the blade: Wrap the tape vertically around the blade, overlapping by no more than a quarter-inch. Adjust for a faster release (toe-to-heel) or more spin (heel-to-toe).

Wrapping the Grip

For the grip:

Start with a folded paper: Using a folded piece of paper can help create a distinctive butt for you to hold. Place the paper around the edge of the handle under the knob, wrapping tape around it to keep it in place. If no knob is present, start from the edge of the stick itself. Measure a fore-arm-length strip of tape: Aim for as little tape as possible, as too much can add unnecessary weight. Aim for the perfect balance between grip and weight. Experiment with different styles: Tapers, knobs, and tapes vary based on personal preference. Players find what works best for their grip and feel, as there is no "right" way to tape the handle.

Finishing the Job

Smooth out any tape bubbles: Use a puck to smooth out any bubbles and work out wrinkles. This ensures the tape remains smooth and won't tear on the ice. Apply stick wax: Apply wax to all taped areas of the blade. This keeps the tape from getting waterlogged, increasing its longevity and reducing friction. Stick wax is recommended, but candle wax serves as a backup. Consider other additions: Some players have elaborate taping routines, adding color, personality, or practical bits to their sticks.

By following these detailed steps, you can effectively wrap your hockey stick for improved handling and performance, enhancing your skills on the ice.