The ice is faster today than it was just ten years ago. The pace in both ice hockey and bandy has increased, checks are harder, and equipment is subject to more wear and tear than ever before. At the same time, small details make an enormous difference. A player might have top-of-the-line skates and a perfect sharpening – but without the right tape, grip, or maintenance, performance will still suffer.
This is where experience comes in. Team managers and equipment managers know that game-winning details are often found in things that don't appear in highlight reels. A stick that fits perfectly in the hand. Shin guards that don't slip. Skate laces that maintain tension throughout the third period.
Having the right equipment is not just about comfort. It's about control, safety, and consistent performance. With the right products and simple routines, players can both improve their game and extend the lifespan of their equipment.
StickyTape has worked closely with teams and clubs for many years and knows exactly which products truly make a difference in everyday life. Here's the equipment every hockey player should have – and how to use it for maximum effect.
The grip that decides the game
Grip tape provides control over the stick
When a player loses their grip on the stick, it usually happens in the most crucial moments. A pass on the power play. A reception at high speed. Or a slap shot where hand positioning must be exact.
Grip tape is therefore one of the most important details in a player's equipment. Good grip tape makes the stick feel stable in the hand and reduces the risk of it twisting during shots or checks.
A classic solution is traditional cloth tape on the shaft, but many players are now switching to more advanced alternatives like LizardSkins grip tape. It is designed to provide an even, ergonomic grip and absorbs vibrations from the stick.
This means the player gets better control and less strain on their hands and wrists.
How to tape your stick correctly
Taping the stick is almost a ritual in the locker room. But there are a few simple principles that make a big difference.
Start with a clean shaft. Wrap the grip tape from the top downwards in an even pattern. Avoid air bubbles and pull the tape with moderate tension.
Many elite players also add an extra layer at the very top for a better hand stop. This ensures the stick always ends up in the correct position in the hand.
With the right grip tape, the taping lasts longer and doesn't need to be redone as often.
Shin guard tape keeps pads in place
Stability throughout the game
Shin guards that slip are a common problem in both ice hockey and bandy. When the pads move, the player loses both comfort and safety.
Shin guard tape is the solution. It keeps the pads securely in place even during intense games.
StickyTape's own shin guard tape is designed to provide strong hold without restricting movement. It stays on throughout the game but is still easy to remove afterwards.
For teams, this means fewer interruptions, less irritation, and better focus on the game.
Simple routine before the game
Effective taping takes less than a minute.
Place the shin guards correctly over the sock. Wrap the tape once above the pad and once below. Pull the tape tight enough so that the pad sits securely but still feels comfortable.
This simple routine ensures that the equipment fits perfectly from the first puck drop to the final whistle.
Skate laces that maintain tension
Why laces affect performance
Skates are a player's most important tool. But even the best skates perform poorly with worn or poorly tied laces.
Skate laces are subjected to extreme stress every practice. Friction against the eyelets and pressure from the knots cause them to wear out faster than many people realize.
When laces start to stretch or fray, the player loses ankle support.
Therefore, many players change laces several times per season.
Waxed laces for better stability
A popular alternative is waxed skate laces. The wax makes the laces hold the knot better and not loosen as easily during play.
This means the player can pull the laces tighter without them slipping.
The result is more stable skates and better power transfer in every stride.
Stick and blade – small details with big impact
Tape the blade for better puck control
Blade taping is almost an art form in hockey. Every player has their own style.
The purpose is always the same: better puck control and more precision in shots.
The tape creates friction against the puck and also protects the blade from wear.
Many players also use puck wax on top of the tape to reduce ice and snow buildup.
How puck wax improves the game
Howies wax is an example of a wax applied directly to the blade tape.
It creates a water-repellent surface that allows the puck to glide more smoothly over the blade.
Additionally, the tape lasts longer because it is protected from moisture.
For players who shoot a lot, this can make a noticeable difference.
Equipment that lasts all season
Small investments save money
A hockey player often uses between 20 and 50 rolls of tape per season. This may sound like a lot, but the right products ensure equipment lasts longer.
For example, the right blade taping can extend the lifespan of a stick. Good shin guard tape reduces wear and tear on socks and pads.
Over an entire season, a team can save thousands of kronor by using the right products.
Team routines make a difference
The most organized teams have simple routines around equipment.
The equipment manager ensures that grip tape, shin guard tape, and laces are always available in the locker room. Players quickly learn how to tape correctly and how to maintain their equipment.
This means less time is spent on problems and more on training and development.
The mental effect of the right equipment
Confidence starts in the details
A player who knows their equipment fits perfectly can focus fully on the game.
This applies to everything from the grip on the stick to how the shin guards feel in every stride.
That security is difficult to measure but easy to feel.
Why many teams choose specialized suppliers
Instead of buying tape and accessories from several different places, many teams choose a specialist.
StickyTape has built its product range specifically for ice hockey and bandy teams. The products are tested in real match environments and delivered quickly to clubs across the country.
This means teams always have the right equipment when it's needed.
FAQ
Which grip tape is best for hockey sticks?
The best grip tape for hockey is one that provides stable control without feeling sticky or stiff. Many players use classic cloth tape, but modern alternatives like LizardSkins grip tape have become increasingly popular. They offer a more even grip, absorb vibrations, and last longer. For players who train several times a week, quality grip tape can improve both comfort and puck control throughout the game.
How do you tape shin guards in hockey?
To tape shin guards correctly, place the pad over your sock and wrap shin guard tape once above and once below the pad. The tape should be firm but not so tight that it restricts movement. Good shin guard tape keeps the pad in place throughout the game and reduces the risk of equipment slipping during play.
How often should you change skate laces?
Skate laces should be replaced as soon as they start to fray or lose their tension. For players who train several times a week, this could mean two to four changes per season. Waxed skate laces often last longer because they hold the knot better and do not loosen as easily during play.
Why do hockey players use wax on their sticks?
Puck wax is applied to the blade tape to make the surface water-repellent. This prevents snow and ice from sticking as easily and allows the puck to glide more smoothly over the blade. Products like Howies wax also help protect the tape from wear, which makes the blade taping last longer.
How often should you re-tape your stick?
Many players re-tape their blade every game or every other game. It depends on play style and how much puck contact you have. New taping provides better grip on the puck and more precision in shots. With quality stick and blade tape, the taping can last longer without losing function.
Can the right tape really improve performance?
Yes. The right taping improves both grip and control. Grip tape stabilizes the stick in the hand, shin guard tape keeps pads in place, and blade taping improves puck control. Together, these small details allow the player to focus more on the game and less on the equipment.
How much tape does a team use per season?
An individual player often uses between 20 and 50 rolls of tape during a season. For an entire team, this can mean several hundred rolls. Therefore, many clubs choose to buy tape from specialized suppliers that offer products adapted for ice hockey and bandy.
What equipment should always be available in a locker room?
A well-organized locker room should always have grip tape, shin guard tape, skate laces, and puck wax available. These products are used daily and make a big difference for both comfort and performance. With the right equipment close at hand, players can quickly fix small problems before practice or a game.
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