Our hockey sticks say a lot about us, as we endear very few things as much as our beloved twigs. As far as we’re concerned they’re responsible for every success and failure in our hockey lives. Often treated like royalty, our sticks endure various pregame rituals and occasional superstition. One thing is always certain, we never start a competitive game without a fresh tape job. You know what they say: “look good, feel good, play good.”
But all tape jobs aren’t created equal. While everyone customizes their Tape Job to their desire, they all stem from the four core tape job styles below. And which style(s) you use, or combine, has a lot to say about what kind of player and person you are…
Classic Heel-to-Toe Tape Job
Taylor Hall’s classic tape job
You’re not flashy, you just get it done. Your all-around game requires an all-around tape job, supporting your play in the corners as well as in the slot. Your coach and teammates can count on you making the simple play. Turnovers at the blue line just aren’t your thing.
These traditionalists are most likely to dress an overall classic look, on and off the ice. They also prefer missionary over anything more adventurous.
Toe-Covered Tape Job
You’re either a bonafide or, more likely aspiring, sniper, dangler, and just overall skilled player. Before your game starts all you’re envisioning is walking their defense and sniping bar down. Backchecking and defensive positioning aren’t much of your thing but one-timers and toe-drags get you all warm and fuzzy inside.
These “game-breakers” are more likely to wear tinted visors, bubbles, &/or colored laces. Plus, there’s a high probability they either have, or wish they had a Russian last name.
Two-Strand Tape Job
Bobby Orr and his two-strand tape job
Unless your name is Bobby Orr or Eric Lindros let’s just be honest, you don’t plan to touch the puck too much. No one is going to confuse you for a streaking Bure or Coffey, instead, you’re comfortable bringing up the rear of the rush patiently waiting for your next opportunity to make a defensive play.
This gem is most likely to wear extra-wide shinpads and use the stiffest twig possible. Also, socially, this beauty is more concerned showcasing his hockey battle scars and muscles over his lack of fashion sense.
Roller-to-Ice Tape Job
Kevin Fiala’s bendy roller-to-ice tape job
The most unorthodox of tape jobs, this style doesn’t bother putting any tape along the top or bottom of the blade. Originally designed to not scuff roller hockey surfaces, these lazy players don’t bother re-taping or having a back-up stick. And if their ugly tape job doesn’t give it away, their skating stride certainly will… it’s hard to run on ice skates.
These players rarely find themselves near the corners or boards as they prefer the non-checking aspect of roller hockey.
Did we miss any types of tape jobs? If so, comment below!
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Looking to improve your game and score more goals? Check out the video Schwartz and Rubeo made about improving your catch-and-release shooting:
And don’t forget to check out our:
Shooting in Your Stride To Score More Goals Like Phil Kessel [VIDEO]
Ultimate Hockey Stick Buying Guide
