Hockey Tape, Grips & Wax: frequently asked questions
What is the difference between cloth hockey tape and clear tape?
Cloth tape is woven, grips the puck and your glove, and is used on the blade and to build a knob at the butt end. Clear tape is a stretchy plastic film for holding socks and shin pads in place, where it won't soak up water or add bulk. Most players carry both, plus narrow knob tape if they like a candy-cane wrap. Howies sells combo packs with cloth and clear rolls together.
Does adding an end plug change how my stick flexes?
Yes. Bauer notes that cutting a stick raises its flex number, so it feels stiffer, while adding an extension lowers it, so it feels whippier. A long extension can make the stick noticeably softer than the rating printed on the shaft. As a sizing check, Bauer suggests the stick reach roughly the nose in shoes, or between chin and bottom lip on skates. Install the plug as its maker directs; some CCM and carbon plugs are heat-activated.
What does stick wax do, and does tack level matter?
Wax rubbed over cloth tape seals it against water and snow, so the tape stays drier, lasts longer and keeps its grip on the puck. Tack varies by product: Absolute Filth sells medium and high-tack blends, and Terry's Twig Wax has a lower-tack PRO blend beside its regular ones. More tack holds the puck more firmly; some players prefer less for a cleaner release. Apply after taping, rubbing firmly from heel to toe.
Sources: bauer.com
