If you've ever seen a hockey player’s stick, you’ll notice they rarely look the same, and that's because taping a hockey stick is almost as personal as the game itself. There's no one "right" way to tape a hockey stick, but there are definitely some tried-and-true methods to get you the best grip, control, and durability out of your tape job. In this guide I’ll be giving you all the information you could ever need in regards to taping a hockey stick including the kind of tape you should select, how to get that impeccable blade strip and also how to ensure that the top handle is perfect. So whether you’re a first timer, or you want some tips for improving your game, grab your tape roll and let’s get started.
Well, then, the question arises, why to start with put a stick in such a manner that it can be taped. Oh yes, the stick does fine without it but a perfect tape job gives you a solid feel and much better control over the puck. First, let's talk about grip. This bare stick is a slippery instrument, the least it becomes a wee bit sweaty and sometimes wet during a game. While using tape effectively on the handle, you get a good grip on the stick and you do not spend half your energy trying to get the stick back in position. Oh, yes, the blade–when one tapes the blade it gives one better control of the puck and the feel is a little softer when receiving a pass to lessen chances of the puck shooting off. It can also guard the blade from being scratched by the ice, the boards or players from the other teams.
Another reason to tape is that it gives you a little edge in puck handling. Some players swear by using friction-boosting wax or adding specific tape patterns that help the puck "stick" to the blade just a bit better. It’s all about finding the right balance between feel and function. And quite frankly who doesn’t love that fresh tape job look, like you are ready for a fight, or whatever.
Now let’s discuss all those details, which precede the actual selection of your adhesive tape. Hockey tape generally comes in two main types: cloth tape and grip tape. Cloth tape is the standard, and it’s durable, flexible, and easy to work with. Most players use it for both the blade and the handle. It also comes in various colors, so you can add a bit of personality to your stick if that’s your thing. Grip tape at the same time is tackier and thicker in comparison with decals. Some players would like it for the handle because it provides a little more thickness without having a overly large knob. It is also water resistant which if you live in a wetting environment can be really beneficial especially when playing. In any case, it is a bit more expensive and not quite as versatile.
Lastly, there’s the tape width to consider. Most players stick with 1-inch-wide tape because it’s easy to handle and covers a decent amount with each pass. But if you want more control over your wraps or want a super-thin handle, ¾-inch tape is another option.
Now that you’ve got your tape, let’s start with the blade, which is where most players really get creative. There are a few popular methods out there, but they all boil down to preference. A lot of players will tape from the heel of the blade to the toe, which gives full coverage and protects the entire blade. This is probably the most common method you’ll see. If you go heel-to-toe, you’ll usually wrap the tape slightly overlapping each time to create a seamless surface. This pattern gives a nice, even feel and looks sharp when done right. On the other hand, some players go from the toe back toward the heel. This isn’t as common, but some people think it provides a slightly different feel on their stick-handling and shooting.
Then, there’s the half-tape approach, where players only tape the middle part of the blade. This style is popular with players who want the puck to roll off the blade more smoothly when shooting. Going halfway saves tape and gives a lighter feel while still providing enough coverage to protect the middle of the blade. Whichever method you choose, make sure to press down each wrap so that there are no wrinkles or bubbles. Some players will even rub the taped blade with a puck or run it along the boards to “seal” the tape and get a smoother surface.
Once the blade is taped, some players add wax, and here’s why. Wax creates a bit of tackiness on the blade, which can help the puck “stick” a little better when handling and shooting. It also repels moisture, which is especially helpful in snowy or slushy ice conditions that make the blade wet. There are special stick waxes made for this, but honestly, even basic candle wax can work in a pinch. Applying wax is easy. Just rub it along the tape in the direction you wrapped it, focusing on the areas where you tend to handle the puck most often. You don’t need a thick coat—just enough to add a bit of tack and water resistance. Some players apply wax every game, while others are fine with adding it every few skates. It’s all about how much grip you want on your blade.
Alright, so now let’s move up to the handle. This is where you can make the stick feel uniquely yours, and there are a ton of options for customizing the grip to suit your style. A simple method is to tape from the top of the stick down about 8-12 inches, then roll the tape back over itself to create a thicker knob at the top. This gives you a reference point for where your top hand should be and helps keep the stick from slipping out of your glove.
Some players prefer adding a few extra layers to make a bigger, more prominent knob. Others make spiral grips by twisting the tape into a thin “rope” and wrapping it down the handle before covering it with more tape. This spiral technique gives you extra grip without making the handle super thick. If you’re really into customization, you can try using grip tape on the handle or combining cloth and grip tapes for different textures. Some players also add a tiny bit of tape below the top grip, forming a “ring” they can feel when they’re stickhandling. Just play around with it until you find a setup that feels natural and gives you confidence on the ice.
Over time, your tape job will start to wear down, no matter how perfectly you apply it. For most players, re-taping every few games
is the norm, though this depends on how often you play and the conditions. If you notice the tape on the blade fraying, getting really dirty, or peeling up, it’s probably time to replace it. You can peel it off and apply a fresh layer, or if you’re short on time, a quick “patch” can hold you over until the end of the game.
On the handle, the tape tends to last a bit longer since it’s not in direct contact with the ice. However, if you notice it getting slippery or worn, it’s worth a fresh wrap. Remember, your stick is your main tool out there—keeping it well-taped means keeping it in peak condition.
While everyone has their preferred way of taping a stick, a few tricks can make the process smoother. For one, warm tape sticks better, so consider keeping your roll in a warm pocket or area if you're taping in a chilly locker room. Also, use scissors or a knife to cut the tape cleanly, which gives you a neat starting point and helps prevent the tape from fraying prematurely.
Another tip: don’t overthink it. While there are endless variations, no two sticks will feel exactly the same, even if you copy someone else’s tape job. The goal is to find what feels good for you. Your tape job should give you confidence and help you feel connected to the stick, so you’re free to focus on the game.
Taping a hockey stick might seem simple, but it’s one of those little rituals that can make a huge difference. Whether you’re a beginner still figuring out how you like your stick to feel or a seasoned player refining your technique, there’s no wrong way to tape—only the way that works best for you. So grab your tape, get a bit creative, and make that stick yours. Each wrap, twist, and wax application brings you one step closer to mastering the game on your terms.
This content was created by AI