To tape the bottom of a hockey stick, you will need a roll of hockey tape. Follow these steps to properly tape the bottom:
- Begin by unrolling a sufficient amount of hockey tape from the roll, leaving the end attached to the roll.
- Hold the end of the tape against the bottom of the blade of your hockey stick. Ensure the blade is clean and dry before taping.
- Use your thumb or a finger to anchor the starting point of the tape onto the blade.
- Wrap the tape tightly around the blade, starting from the heel (closest to where the blade meets the shaft) and moving towards the toe (the end of the blade).
- Wrap the tape in a spiral motion, overlapping each wrap slightly to ensure complete coverage. Apply even pressure to keep the tape secure.
- Continue wrapping until you reach the toe of the blade. Make sure the tape adheres smoothly and evenly.
- Once you reach the toe, wrap the tape tightly around the bottom of the blade to secure the end.
- To finish the taping, tear or cut the tape from the roll, ensuring it is securely attached to the blade.
- Use your hand to smooth out any creases or bumps in the tape, ensuring it is firmly in place.
- You can also use the butt end of your hockey stick to press down and smooth out the tape for a clean finish.
- Optionally, some players may choose to apply wax to the taped portion for added durability and improved puck control.
Taping the bottom of your hockey stick helps protect the blade, improve puck control, and prolong the stick's lifespan. It also provides a better grip on the ice and enhances your shooting and passing skills. Remember to replace the tape regularly to maintain its performance.
Best Ice Hockey Skates in 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
CCM Jetspeed FT6 Pro Ice Hockey Skates, Senior (Width: Tapered; Size: 8.5 = 44)
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JETSPEED FT6 PRO ice hockey skates offer a comfortable, ready-to-play feel and unparalleled range of motion for optimal speed and performance on the ice.
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QUARTER PACKAGE: the one-piece speed boot with game ready fit stands for performance and acceleration, with Game Ready Fit for the perfect wrap to get a more direct energy transfer for faster steps and hit your opponents to puck every time
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INNER SHOE: Totaldri Pro + with polygia high performance moisture wicking material that keeps feet dry and skates lightweight, with superior odour protection. An additional EVA layer provides an excellent fit and comfort
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TENDON: Flex tendon with carbon improves freedom of movement and allows greater expansion in skating steps for more speed. Carbon insert for ultimate protection
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TONGUE: ADPT comfort tongue with FlexMotion and metatomic fit, lightweight moulded core, with ADPT memory foam that wraps the foot for ultimate fit and comfort
2
Rating is 5 out of 5
CCM Hockey Tacks AS-550 Senior Adult Ice Hockey Skates (Skate Size 8 (Shoe Size 9.5))
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3D Injected Boot Quarter Package: Ergonomic boot-shaping system for great comfort and new texturized finish for improved durability
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Stiffness 115: Solid core for great skating performance
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HD Microfiber: High resistance to wear while delivering major comfort and durability
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Felt Tongue: 5mm felt tongue with added foam for increased comfort and protection
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CCM Speedblade: Non-replaceable stainless steel blade with elevated holder for an increased attack angle
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
CCM Tacks AS-550 Senior Ice Hockey Skates
4
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
5th Element Stealth Ice Hockey Skates-13.0
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PREMIUM QUALITY - 5th Element Stealth Ice Hockey Skates enable you to light up the ice without burning a hole in your wallet. With a premium-quality stainless steel blade, ankle padding, and heel support, you are sure to blow away the competition. These recreational hockey skates are perfect for beginners or intermediates playing in leagues or outdoors on the pond.
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TRUE-TO-SIZE FIT - These skates fit true to your shoe size. With enough wiggle room around the toes but snug in the heel and midfoot, you will experience maximum support. Each skates padded footbed cradles your foot, giving you the most out of every run. Available in sizes 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13.
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MOISTURE-RESISTANT LINER - 5th Element Hockey Skate boot is all about performance with its moisture-resistant liner. Designed with comfort in mind, these skates boost performance in all conditions, allowing quick tight turns on the ice. Suitable for beginners to advanced skaters.
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REINFORCED OUTSOLE - The 5th Element Stealth Ice Hockey Skates come with a reinforced outsole that helps you maintain stability in the rink. Durable and lightweight, these skates will be a pleasure to skate with.
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
BOTAS - Draft 281 - Men's Ice Hockey Skates | Made in Europe (Czech Republic) | Color: Black, Size Adult 11
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Recommended use: for active athletes
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Upper: resistant synthetic in combination with PA fabric
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Lining: padded, synthetic material PENAT
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Blade: BOTAS ICEHAWK CARBON Ultra Steel white
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Recommended care: wipe clean after each use or wash lightly with water (no detergents!), remove insole and dry all at room temperature. Occasionally conserve the blade of the skate.
6
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Jackson Ultima Softec Sport Men's/Boy's Recreational Hockey Skate - Mens Size 10
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Recreational skate with Thinsulate lining, nylon upper and tongue
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Factory sharpened leisure blade attached
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Mens (adult) Size 10 – Black
7
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
CCM Super Tacks 9350 Senior Ice Hockey Skates (8)
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Skate size is typically 1.5 sizes lower than US shoe size. Example if you wear a shoe size 10.5 you will be a skate size 9.
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CCM Hockey is constantly pushing the boundaries when it comes to ice hockey skate innovation and this time is no different with the CCM Super Tacks 9350 Senior Hockey Skates! Designed and manufactured to cater to a wide range of players, the Super Tacks 9350 Skates offer the complete package of performance, comfort, and efficiency.
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Starting out with the Quarter Package of the Super Tacks 9350 Skates, a Reinforced 3D Injected boot is a new ergonomic boot-shaping system that provides great comfort and durability. This skate also comes with a stiffness performance index of 125 which makes this skate a solid core for a good skating experience.
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Up at the tongue of the Super Tacks 9350 skates, a 7mm Felt tongue with embossed lace-bite protection is utilized to provide comfort and protection in this area. Next on the liner, an HD Microfiber is used specifically to provide a comfortable fit that is designed to be highly resistant to wear.
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Finally down on the bottom section of the Super Tacks, the footbed is CCM’s very own footbed designed to provide further support and comfort for the goaltender. Flipping around to the outside to the holder and runner, CCMs Speedblade is a non-replaceable, pre-sharpened stainless steel blade with an elevated holder for an increased attack angle.
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
CCM Super Tacks AS3 Ice Hockey Skates Junior (Width: EE, Size: 6.5)
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The CCM Super Tacks AS3 Ice Hockey Skates are designed to give you maximum performance
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Designed with elements that favor direct energy transfer and a tighter, more comfortable fit.
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The replaceable TriTech Flex Tongue offers pro-level protection and comfort but importantly, provides a new way to customize the skate
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The quick and secure attachment gives players the opportunity to buy one of three aftermarket tongues that can help adjust the fit and feel of the boot like nothing else before
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With the boot naturally hugging the foot, CCM used thicker foams than in the past to increase step-in comfort
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
CCM Super Tacks 9360 Senior Ice Hockey Skates (7)
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CCM Hockey is constantly pushing the boundaries when it comes to ice hockey skate innovation and this time is no different with the CCM Super Tacks 9360 Senior Hockey Skates! Designed and manufactured to cater to a wide range of players, the Super Tacks 9360 Skates offer the complete package of performance, comfort, and efficiency.
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Starting out with the Quarter Package of the Super Tacks 9360 Skates, a Reinforced 3D Injected boot is a new ergonomic boot-shaping system that provides great comfort and durability. This skate also comes with a stiffness performance index of 125 which makes this skate a solid core for a good skating experience.
-
Up at the tongue of the Super Tacks 9360 skates, a 7mm Felt tongue with embossed lace-bite protection is utilized to provide comfort and protection in this area. Next on the liner, an HD Microfiber is used specifically to provide a comfortable fit that is designed to be highly resistant to wear.
-
Finally down on the bottom section of the Super Tacks, the footbed is CCM’s very own footbed designed to provide further support and comfort for the goaltender. Flipping around to the outside to the holder and runner, CCMs Speedblade is a non-replaceable, pre-sharpened stainless steel blade with an elevated holder for an increased attack angle.
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Skate size is typically 1.5 sizes lower than US shoe size. Example if you wear a shoe size 10.5 you will be a skate size 9.
What is the purpose of adding wax or resin to the taped bottom of a hockey stick?
Adding wax or resin to the taped bottom of a hockey stick serves several purposes:
- Increased grip: Wax or resin can enhance the grip on the stick, allowing players to have better control over the puck. This is particularly useful during stickhandling and shooting, as it helps prevent the stick from slipping out of the player's hands.
- Water repellent: Waxing or applying resin to the tape creates a water repellent barrier. Since hockey is often played on ice, the stick can come into contact with water, snow, or ice shavings, causing the tape to become wet and lose grip. Wax or resin helps to repel moisture, keeping the tape dry and maintaining its effectiveness.
- Increased durability: Wax or resin can also prolong the lifespan of the tape. The wax or resin coating provides an additional layer of protection, preventing the tape from wearing down quickly due to friction against the ice or the puck.
- Better puck feel: The wax or resin can create a slightly tacky surface, allowing players to have a better feel for the puck when stickhandling, passing, or shooting. It can also improve the overall control and touch players have while handling the puck.
Overall, waxing or applying resin to the taped bottom of a hockey stick helps maximize grip, increase durability, repel water, and improve puck control, making it a common practice among hockey players.
How to prepare the hockey stick blade before taping?
To prepare the hockey stick blade before taping, you can follow these steps:
- Clean the blade: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe off any dirt or debris from the blade. Make sure the blade is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
- Sand the blade: Use a fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the blade surface. This helps to remove any rough edges or imperfections and creates a slightly roughened surface that improves puck control and shooting. Be careful not to sand too aggressively or remove too much material.
- Wax the blade: Apply a thin layer of stick wax or candle wax to the blade. This step helps to reduce ice and snow buildup on the blade during the game. Rub the wax all over the blade, making sure to cover the edges as well.
- Pre-tape the blade: Some players like to apply a layer of pre-tape before taping the blade. Pre-tape is a thin, cloth-like tape that provides additional grip and cushioning. Wrap the pre-tape tightly around the blade, ensuring a smooth and even application.
Once you have completed these steps, you can proceed with taping the blade using the desired type of hockey tape. Remember to re-tape the blade whenever the tape starts to wear out or lose its grip.
How to prevent the tape from interfering with puck feel?
To prevent tape from interfering with puck feel, you can follow these steps:
- Choose the right tape: There are different types of hockey tape available in the market. Some have a stickier adhesive, while others have a smoother texture. Look for a tape that strikes a balance between grip and smoothness.
- Apply the tape properly: Start by wrapping the blade of your stick from heel to toe, ensuring a tight and even wrap. Make sure there are no gaps or loose areas that can cause the tape to bunch up or affect the feel of the puck.
- Experiment with different techniques: Some players prefer to use wax on the tape to reduce friction and stickiness. Experiment with different methods, such as rubbing the tape with ice or puck, to create a smoother surface. You can also wrap an additional layer of cloth tape over the blade for added smoothness.
- Use a thinner layer of tape: Avoid wrapping your stick blade with too much tape, as it can create excessive thickness and reduce the sensitivity to the puck. Use a thinner layer of tape to maintain a closer connection between the puck and the blade.
- Replace the tape regularly: Over time, hockey tape can wear out, lose its grip, or become too sticky. Replace the tape regularly to maintain optimal puck feel. A fresh layer of tape will ensure a better connection with the puck.
- Practice puck handling and stick skills: Ultimately, the best way to improve puck feel is through practice and developing your stick skills. Regularly work on your puck handling, passing, and shooting to better understand and feel the puck on your stick blade.
By following these tips and experimenting with different techniques, you can prevent the tape from interfering with the puck feel and enhance your overall performance on the ice.
