Adhesive fabric applied to a hockey stick’s blade and handle provides several performance and practical advantages. This application is ubiquitous among players at all levels of the sport, serving purposes beyond mere decoration. The practice involves wrapping specialized tape around designated areas of the stick to enhance grip, control, and protection.
The practice offers improved puck handling due to increased friction between the blade and the puck. It creates a softer feel for receiving passes, dampens vibrations, and can add spin to shots. Furthermore, taping the handle delivers a secure and comfortable grip, preventing slippage and blisters. A layer of tape on the blade also protects the stick from abrasion caused by the ice and puck impacts, extending its lifespan. Historically, the practice evolved from simple cloth wraps to specialized adhesive tapes designed for hockey.
