Hockey tape is a crucial tool for players at all levels. It helps improve grip on the stick, protects the blade, and can even enhance puck control. Good hockey tape needs to be durable, provide strong adhesion, and withstand the harsh conditions of ice play. With many options available, finding the right tape can make a noticeable difference in your game.
Hockey players generally use two types of tape: stick tape for the blade and grip tape for the handle. Stick tape is typically cloth-based and helps with puck control, while grip tape is designed to improve hand grip and absorb sweat. The material, width, and thickness of the tape can affect performance in different ways. Some players prefer a thicker tape for cushioning, while others want a thinner option for better puck feel.
When choosing hockey tape, pay attention to durability, stickiness, and how it performs when wet. A good tape should stay in place throughout intense play and not unravel easily. It should also maintain its grip properties even when exposed to snow and water on the ice.
Best Hockey Tapes for Players
Our comprehensive list includes options for both stick and shin pad applications, with products that stand up to intense gameplay while providing the feel and control serious players demand. Each tape on our list has been evaluated based on quality, performance, and value.
This versatile hockey tape offers solid grip and protection at a great value, making it a smart choice for players wanting durability without breaking the bank.
Pros
Cons
The 1-inch width is standard, but we like that you can easily tear it to half-inch strips when needed without any tools.
The woven cotton material has a nice feel that provides good grip on stick handles.
What makes this tape stand out is its versatility. Beyond hockey sticks, we used it on everything from baseball bats to pull-up bars with good results. The non-reflective surface provides excellent grip without feeling too tacky. While the adhesive isn’t the strongest, it holds up well enough for most applications. This multi-purpose functionality makes it a great value compared to sport-specific tapes that cost much more.
We recommend Howies Black Hockey Tape for serious players who need reliable grip and durability on their sticks.
Pros
Cons
This hockey tape impressed us during our recent testing sessions. The roll contains plenty of tape for multiple stick wraps, and we found the adhesive strong enough to stay put during intense play. Unlike cheaper options, it doesn’t peel away when the action heats up or when sticks get wet from ice or sweat.
The texture provides just the right amount of grip without feeling too rough on bare hands.
Removing the tape was surprisingly easy despite its strong hold. It didn’t leave much sticky residue behind, which saves time during stick maintenance. The 12-pack option makes this a great value for teams or individual players who go through tape quickly. While primarily designed for hockey sticks, some of us have found it works well for other equipment that needs extra grip.
Howies Shin Pad Tape offers exceptional quality and reliable performance for hockey players seeking to keep their equipment secure during intense gameplay.
Pros
Cons
We recently tested the Howies Hockey Shin Pad Tape during several practice sessions and games. The first thing we noticed was how easily it applied to our equipment. Unlike cheaper alternatives that constantly need readjustment, this tape maintained its grip throughout intense skating and checking.
The stretch factor impressed us most. As we moved on the ice, the tape expanded and contracted with our muscles, preventing that uncomfortable binding sensation many players complain about with inferior products. This flexibility doesn’t compromise its holding power—our shin guards stayed firmly in place the entire time.
Removal was surprisingly simple. The Howies tape peeled off cleanly without leaving sticky residue on socks or equipment. Made in the USA with quality materials, the durability justifies the slightly higher price point. The 5-pack option provides excellent value for regular players, though we recommend the larger multi-packs for teams or frequent users. With its 4.8-star rating from nearly 400 users, it’s clear why many hockey players consider this the gold standard for shin pad tape.
Howies Hockey Tape offers the perfect blend of stickiness and durability that serious players need for optimal puck control and stick handling.
Pros
Cons
We tested this Howies Premium White Hockey Tape this past season. The first thing we noticed was how easily it tears by hand while still maintaining a clean edge. No scissors needed here, which saves valuable time in the locker room.
The stick blade coverage is exceptional. This tape creates a truly watertight bond that enhances puck feel and control. Even after hours of play in wet conditions, the tape job held firm without peeling or slipping. The 1-inch width provides perfect coverage, and each 20-yard roll lasts through multiple stick tapings.
Made in the USA, the quality difference is immediately apparent compared to cheaper alternatives. The 50/50 polyethylene-cotton blend strikes the perfect balance between grip and durability. We found it lasted through several games before needing replacement, which justifies the slightly higher price point. For players serious about their equipment, this premium hockey tape is worth every penny.
When shopping for hockey tape, there are several key factors to consider. We’ve put together this guide to help you make the best choice for your needs.
Hockey tape comes in three main varieties:
| Type | Best For | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Cloth Tape | Stick blades, handles | Good grip, cushioning, moisture absorption |
| Friction Tape | Stick blades | Rough texture, excellent puck control |
| Grip Tape | Stick handles | Tacky surface, prevents slipping |
Black tape can hide puck marks and may make it harder for goalies to track the puck. White tape can blend with ice, potentially concealing your shot preparation.
Clear tape offers minimal visibility but provides less grip than cloth options.
Standard widths range from 1 inch to 1.5 inches. Wider tape covers more area quickly, while narrower tape allows for more precise wrapping and control.
Look for tapes with strong adhesive that won’t peel during gameplay. Quality cloth tapes resist fraying and maintain grip when wet.
The tape should enhance your grip without feeling bulky. We recommend testing different options to find what feels most comfortable in your hands.
Consider your playing environment. Some tapes perform better in cold rinks, while others maintain their stick in humid conditions.
– Followthepuck Affiliate link, prices may change –
