For hockey players, one of the most important pieces of equipment is one that gets the least amount of attention. Although sticks, pads and skates are all essential pieces of gear, a simple roll of ice hockey tape just might be the secret MVP of your locker room. Fortunately, ProStockHockey.com has what you need with great deals on bulk hockey tape in various colors, materials and thicknesses from leading brands including Howies and more.
HOCKEY TAPE 101
Just as every player on the ice has a specific position, different types of tape are used for different purposes. Here are some of the most common tips and tricks when using hockey stick tape for your gear:
- Use hockey grip tape to create “ribs” on the handle of your stick. This is done by twisting a strip of tape around the handle and then taping over it as you would normally to secure the underlying layer. This makes it easier to hold your stick and gives you more control because you’ll have ready-made grooves for your fingers.
- Stretchy tape isn’t used for taping up equipment. Instead, it’s generally used for taping up injuries to your fingers, wrists, ankles or anywhere else you could use a little soft support underneath your pads.
- Applying white hockey tape helps preserve your gloves by not leaving as much visible residue as other types. This is why it’s recommended to use white tape on the top section of your stick, although some players prefer black for its look.
- Wide hockey tape covers more surface area and creates a smoother layer for enhanced puck feel. This is why it’s most often used as hockey blade tape for sticks.
CLOTH vs. CLEAR
What type of hockey tape is best? The ideal type depends entirely on the player’s preferences as well as what the tape is being used for.
Cloth hockey tape is much grippier and is the most common type of tape used in the sport. It’s mostly used for taping hockey sticks at the handle, shaft and blade for grip and puck control. Many players also use this style of tape to create a custom “knob” at the top of their stick for personal feel and to enhance their style of play.
On the other hand, clear polyflex tape is typically recommended as hockey sock tape due to its high tensile strength and flexibility. Securing your shin guards is the most common use of clear hockey tape. It can also be used as an extra layer of protection under cloth tape. How you use your hockey tape ultimately comes down to your own personal preferences and style of play.
WHY ProStockHockey.com?
There are a lot of suppliers out there, but we’re different because we prioritize 100% customer satisfaction and include free tape with every equipment order. We’re proud to offer NHL hockey tape used by the pros and made by the brands they trust. Here, you’ll find Renfrew and Howies hockey tape as well as others. No matter what, you can count on us for discounted prices that are better than anything you’ll find at retail.
To learn more about our products or just want to talk hockey, feel free to reach out to us — we’d love to hear from you!