Different Ways To Tape Hockey Stick
As a hockey player, taping your stick is a necessary skill that you must master. The tape protects the blade and gives you better control of the puck. However, there are different ways to tape a hockey stick, and each method has its unique advantages. In this article, we will explore some of the different ways to tape a hockey stick.
Toe-to-Heel
The toe-to-heel method is the most common way to tape a hockey stick. It involves wrapping the tape around the blade from the toe to the heel of the stick. The advantage of this method is that it provides a smooth surface for the puck to glide on, giving you better control. It also protects the blade from wear and tear.
Toe-to-Toe
The toe-to-toe method involves wrapping the tape from the toe to the midpoint of the blade and then back to the toe. This method creates a raised ridge in the middle of the blade, giving you more power when shooting. It also provides better control when stickhandling, as the raised ridge helps grip the puck.
The Knob
The knob refers to the small piece of tape that is wrapped around the end of the stick where you hold it. The purpose of the knob is to provide a better grip on the stick and prevent it from slipping out of your hands. To make a knob, start at the top of the stick and wrap the tape around it until you reach the desired size.
The Butt End
The butt end of the stick is the opposite end of the blade where you hold the stick. Taping the butt end provides a better grip and prevents the stick from slipping out of your hands. To tape the butt end, start at the top and wrap the tape around until you reach the desired size.
The Handle
The handle refers to the part of the stick where you hold it with your bottom hand. Taping the handle provides a better grip and prevents the stick from slipping out of your hands. To tape the handle, start at the top and wrap the tape around until you reach the desired size, leaving some space between each wrap to create a ribbed effect for better grip.
The Blade Wrap
The blade wrap method involves wrapping the tape around the entire blade of the stick, including the toe and the heel. This method provides an extra layer of protection for the blade and can also improve your shot accuracy by creating more friction between the puck and the blade.
Conclusion
There are many ways to tape a hockey stick, and each method has its advantages. The toe-to-heel method is the most common, but toe-to-toe and blade wrap methods can also benefit your game. The knob, butt end, and handle taping techniques provide a better grip on the stick and prevent it from slipping out of your hands. Whichever method you choose, make sure to tape your stick regularly to maintain its performance and protect the blade. Have fun on the ice!