Learning how to tape an inline hockey stick for better grip and control can be a game-changer.
In the speed-driven environment of inline hockey, that extra bit of control over your stick can be what divides you from scoring a goal or barely missing.
Taping your stick isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a crucial part of maximizing performance on the rink.
But let’s face it – mastering how to tape an inline hockey stick for better grip and control is not as straightforward as one might think.
The Importance of Taping Your Hockey Stick
As both beginner and experienced inline hockey players know, the right grip on your stick can make all the difference in a game.
Taping your hockey stick isn’t just about adding some color or personal style – it’s a crucial part of maintaining control over the puck and ensuring optimal performance during play.
Grip Improvement for Better Control
A well-taped handle provides extra grip that helps you keep firm control over your stick even when things get heated on the rink.
This is especially important during roller hockey games where quick reactions are key to success.
Reducing Wear and Tear with Tape Jobs
Hockey sticks aren’t cheap, particularly high-quality composite sticks designed for serious play.
Tape jobs not only improve handling but also extend their lifespan by reducing wear from friction against ice or asphalt surfaces common in street hockey scenarios.
Different Sections Benefit Differently From Taping
The benefits of taping don’t stop at improved puck control; different sections gain unique advantages too.
Your top hand gets added comfort while holding onto tape-wrapped handles which reduces blisters after long practice sessions.
In addition, wrapping black tape around blades improves visibility contrast against white ice making it easier to spot black pucks flying towards goals.
Better Performance Through Proper Maintenance
In our next section we will delve into how choosing suitable tapes like cloth tape vs. friction tape as well as using colored options such as white or black tapes affects overall gameplay experience.
Choosing the Right Tape for Your Hockey Stick
The right choice of hockey tape can significantly enhance your game, improving grip and puck control.
A variety of tapes are available in the market including cloth tape, friction tape, black or white color tapes and more. Each type offers unique benefits to cater to different needs of inline hockey players.
Cloth Tape vs Friction Tape
Cloth tape is a popular option among many hockey players.
This traditional style provides excellent durability while also offering good grip on both stick handles and blades. However, some may find it less adhesive compared to other types like friction tape which sticks well but might be harder to handle due its thickness.
Black Tape vs White Tape
The debate between using black or white colored hockey tapes has been ongoing within roller hockey circles for years now.
Purists argue that black pucks stand out better against a backdrop of white ice making them easier for goalies spot during games whereas others believe that darker hues provide an added element surprise by camouflaging puck’s position thus creating confusion amongst opponents about where exactly you’re aiming shot at.
Remember: choosing right kind not only affects how well able maintain hold over stick shaft but also impacts ability effectively manipulate direction speed shots so take time consider options carefully before settling one particular brand or variant.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taping Your Hockey Stick
But, how do you get the perfect tape job?
Taping the Handle
The handle is where you’ll want to start taping for added grip.
- Pick a high-quality cloth or friction hockey tape.
- Start at the top of your stick’s handle (or butt end), ensuring that each wrap overlaps slightly with previous one as you work down towards middle part of handle.
Tapping The Shaft
If extra control is what you’re after in street hockey games, consider taping along parts of shaft too. Here’s how:
- Select either black or white color tape depending on visibility preference & game strategy against goalies.
- Carefully apply it around areas where hands frequently slide across while maneuvering puck – this will provide additional tactile feedback enhancing overall performance on rink..
Tapping The Blade
Your blade plays an integral role when controlling black pucks during roller hockey matches.
It also requires special attention:
- To begin with, choose whether using traditional cloth tapes which offer great feel but may wear out faster due harsh surface conditions encountered by blades used in street-hockeys versus durable yet less sensitive friction ones better suited if longevity matters more than touch sensitivity..
- Aim for tight wraps starting from heel moving up till toe area covering entire face without leaving any exposed spots behind – remember key here isn’t just about protecting composite sticks but rather improving shot speed & spin controls over pucks.
After successfully executing these steps, there’s still something left: applying wax post-tape job.
But why? And how does it benefit? Let’s explore that next…
Benefits of Using Stick Wax
If you’re an inline hockey player, you’ve likely come across the term stick wax.
This isn’t just another accessory to add to your gear bag.
Stick wax is a must-have for inline hockey players, providing them with extra grip and control during the game.
The Added Grip and Control from Stick Wax
Stick wax provides added grip for better puck control during roller hockey games.
A layer of stick wax on top of fresh tape jobs enhances friction between the glove and stick handle or blade. This means less slipping and more accurate shots or passes.
Prolonging Your Tape Job Life with Stick Wax
Besides providing extra grip, applying stick wax after taping extends longevity of your applied hockey players’ tape.
- The waxy coating acts as a barrier against moisture which is beneficial in preventing ice build-up on blades during colder weather conditions.
- An additional advantage includes reducing wear & tear caused by repeated contact with black pucks.
- Last but not least, it keeps dirt off ensuring that your cloth tape stays cleaner longer thus saving costs associated with frequent re-taping sessions.
Special Considerations For Street Hockey Sticks
Rough surfaces can lead to faster wear and tear on the blade.
This is where products like Hockey Wraparound, designed specifically for protecting the bottom part of blades used in street games, come into play.
Regular Vs Horizontal “Street” Tape Job
The method you choose to tape your stick can greatly impact ball or puck control during street games.
A regular taping job involves wrapping tape around the blade vertically from heel to toe – this is commonly seen across all forms of hockey including roller and ice variants.
In contrast, a horizontal ‘street’ style wrap sees players applying their black or white cloth tapes horizontally along each face of the blade; some believe it offers better grip with balls typically used in outdoor environments.
ABS Sticks With No Tape
An alternative solution comes in form ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) sticks that are often left untaped by many players due its inherent durability & surface friction properties against rough asphalt grounds.
However not using any kind color tapes might limit extra added grip benefits offered by traditional cloth or friction tapes.
As we transition into our next section remember maintaining your taped up composite sticks post-tape job also plays crucial role extending longevity as well ensuring consistent performance over time.
The Removal Process: Replacing Old With New
When it comes to replacing your existing tape with a fresh one, begin by cautiously peeling away the old adhesive. Use a tape remover or rubbing alcohol to remove any sticky residue left behind.
Once the old tape is removed, clean the stick with a dry cloth to ensure there is no dirt or debris left on the surface.
Next, start applying the new tape from the bottom of the stick, wrapping it tightly around the handle or blade. Make sure to overlap each wrap slightly to create a secure and smooth surface.
Continue wrapping the tape until you reach the desired length or coverage. Trim any excess tape and secure the end by pressing it firmly against the stick.
Finally, use a puck or your hand to compress the tape and create a better grip. This will help the tape adhere to the stick and provide a more comfortable feel during gameplay.
By following these steps and properly maintaining your tape job, you can ensure that your hockey stick remains in great condition and performs at its best on the ice.
FAQs in Relation to How to Tape an Inline Hockey Stick for Better Grip and Control
How do you tape a stick for inline hockey?
Start by wrapping the handle from top to middle, then move down to the shaft if needed. Lastly, wrap your blade effectively for improved control and shot speed.
How do I make my hockey stick more grippy?
Taping your hockey stick with cloth or friction tape can enhance grip. Applying wax after taping also improves puck handling and extends the life of your tape job.
Does it matter how you tape a hockey stick?
Absolutely. The way you tape your stick affects grip, control over the puck/ball, and durability of both the stick and its applied tapes.
How do NHL players tape their sticks?
NHL players typically start at heel of blade moving towards toe using overlapping wraps. They may use either black or white cloth tapes based on personal preference & visibility factors.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of taping your inline hockey stick can be a game-changer.
The right tape, whether it’s cloth or friction, black or white, plays a significant role in enhancing grip and control.
A well-executed ‘tape job’ on your handle and shaft gives you that extra edge during intense street games.
Don’t forget about the blade – wrapping it effectively boosts shot speed and puck spin control.
And let’s not overlook stick wax; applying this after fresh tape can extend its longevity while improving puck handling even further.
Maintaining your taped-up composite sticks is crucial too – cleaning them regularly keeps them at peak performance longer.
If you’re ready to take your inline hockey skills to new heights by learning how to tape an inline hockey stick for better grip and control, then World Inline Hockey is here for you.
For those seeking to improve their game, World Inline Hockey provides an array of resources from comprehensive guides to more advanced materials.