Putting the tape on the cue before a game is often a very precise ritual for hockey players. While each player has their own method, learning the basics of proper tape application can ensure you get the most out of your cue. Read this article for more information.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Put the Ribbon on the Spatula
Hockey players apply tape to wooden sticks to protect the glue that holds the layers together and thereby increase the life of the stick. In any case, many players prefer the feel of the spatula with the tape, which gives the disc more thrust, friction and greater control. Some players apply tape over the entire spatula, while other players use tape only in the central part of the spatula, which hits the puck more frequently
Step 1. Gather the materials you need to do a good job
Of course you will need your cue, left or right, or a goalie cue. The process is pretty much the same. Additionally, you will need:
- Duct tape
- Scissors or utility knife
- Hockey wax, surf wax or an old candle
Step 2. Choose the right color for the ribbon
Some players think that the color and style of the tape on the cue is important for both identification and practical purposes. The right tape can make you instantly identifiable and your teammates can recognize you right away.
Use black tape to mask the puck. Other players will have a harder time figuring out if you have the puck if you used black tape. Some players, on the other hand, prefer white tape to improve their control of the puck, as this makes it easier to see. If you want to help your teammates, use a ribbon in the color of your team to be seen right away
Step 3. Cut a thin strip of tape and apply it to the bottom of the putty knife
Before wrapping the putty knife, apply some tape to the bottom edge that is dragged across the ice. Keep the tape centered on the edge of the putty knife. Later you will apply more tape to this area.
Some players go over this edge with a file to remove cracks or wood chips that have formed over time. Check that the wood is smooth and intervene if there are any problems
Step 4. Start at the front or rear end of the spatula
Some players start from the front, while others prefer the more traditional method: back to front. Choose where to start and start wrapping the spatula by moving the tape diagonally. Overlap the tape over the one from the previous step by no more than half an inch.
- Tape is usually applied from back to front, as this gives the puck more spin, although recent analyzes of faster shots have shown that spin produces a slower shot. Depending on your playing style you can apply the tape in the direction you prefer.
- If you want a faster pull release, apply tape from front to back. If you prefer more rotation, proceed in the opposite direction. Although the rotation slows the puck, it makes it more difficult to parry with the leggings, because the rotation of the puck makes it more difficult for the goalkeeper to control.
Part 2 of 3: Apply the Tape to the Top of the Splint
Hockey players also create a knob at the top of the cue to keep the hand in place and instantly recognize the top of the cue by touch, without having to look. The thickness of the tape can also help better grip the splint in some cases. Removable knobs are also available, making this process unnecessary
Step 1. To make the knob, start with a napkin
It may sound odd, but grabbing a small piece of paper (like a napkin) can help with the initial grip.
Start applying the tape from the very bottom of the knob, passing the tape several times to keep it in place
Step 2. Cut a strip of tape about the length of your forearm
Use your elbow as a guide and create a kind of ribbon cord. Wrap it around the top of the stick, with diagonal movements.
Start on the flat side of the ribbon and continue wrapping to make sure it holds well, then cut
Step 3. Try to use little tape
Using a lot of tape can add weight to the cue and this can tire you in the long run.
Once you've done a good job, measure the tape when you take it off after the game. Remember how much tape you used and only cut this amount next time. This way you will save time and won't waste tape
Step 4. Experiment
Your style depends on your personal preferences. Try out different types of tape to see which one you feel best with. There are no right methods of applying the tape, players usually have different methods depending on their style of play. You are trying to adapt the cue to the way you play, so look for the way you feel best during the game.
Part 3 of 3: End of the Job
Step 1. Remove any bubbles with a puck
Start from the back and press towards the inside. Rub the disc along the tape to get rid of bubbles, which can damage the tape in contact with ice. The friction of the disc allows the tape to adhere better to the spatula.
Step 2. Apply the wax
Take some wax and apply it to all areas of the spatula covered by the tape. This avoids the effects of moisture, increasing the longevity of the belt and decreasing the friction of the underside of the spatula on the ice. This is very useful if you shoot the puck very frequently.
- For best results, use hockey wax and not non-specific wax. Good wax is available at the best hockey gear stores. In desperate cases, however, a little candle wax can also work.
- Make sure the rink where you play allows the use of wax. Some rinks that do not regularly renew the ice or that use the equipment for commercial purposes may not allow this practice.
Step 3. Consider other possibilities
Some players have very elaborate routines, they add some colored ribbon for practical or personal purposes. Learn from other players and try to adapt this practice to your style.
Some players add some tape to the middle of the cue to help grip with gloves
Advice
- Applying tape to the top of a Kevlar batten approximately 30cm above where the spatula fits into the shaft helps to avoid damage that can result in the batten breaking.
- Often white tape is used at the top of the splint to less damage the gloves.
- If you want to use black tape at the top, use regular duct tape and NOT the tape that usually applies to the putty knife. This type of tape ruins the gloves too much.
