STICK ACCESSORIES

Having the right hockey stick accessories can significantly enhance a player's performance on the ice and extend the life of their equipment. This guide will cover essential hockey stick accessories, including tapes, stick grips, end plugs, stick wax, pucks, and balls. We'll discuss their benefits and importance in helping you elevate your game and protect your gear.

1. Tapes

a. Cloth Hockey Tape

Cloth hockey tape is an indispensable accessory for hockey players, providing grip and protection for both the blade and the shaft of the stick. On the blade, tape enhances puck control, protects the blade from wear, and reduces ice and snow buildup. On the shaft, tape improves grip and cushioning for better control and comfort during play.

b. Friction Tape

Friction tape is an alternative to cloth hockey tape for the blade, featuring a sticky coating on both sides for added grip and durability. While not as common as cloth tape, some players prefer friction tape for its unique feel and performance benefits.

2. Stick Grips

Stick grips are another essential hockey stick accessory, providing enhanced grip and comfort on the ice. Available in various materials and designs, such as foam, rubber, or tacky fabric, stick grips can be easily applied over the shaft's existing tape or directly onto the shaft. Some popular stick grip brands include Buttendz, Lizard Skins, and Tacki-Mac.

3. End Plugs

End plugs are designed to extend the length of a hockey stick shaft, allowing players to customize their stick's length without purchasing a new one. Made from materials like wood or composite, end plugs fit into the top of the stick shaft and are secured with tape or glue. They are especially helpful for players who have outgrown their current stick or prefer a longer reach during play.

4. Stick Wax

Stick wax is used to coat the blade tape, enhancing puck control and protecting the tape from ice and snow buildup. By reducing the buildup of ice on the blade, stick wax allows players to maintain better control and feel for the puck throughout the game. Popular stick wax brands include Howie's Hockey Wax, A&R Wax, and Sex Wax.

5. Pucks

Hockey pucks are an essential accessory for practice and gameplay, with regulation pucks made from vulcanized rubber and weighing approximately 6 ounces. In addition to traditional black pucks, there are also training pucks, such as Green Biscuit and Smart Hockey pucks, designed to glide smoothly on off-ice surfaces for skill development and practice.

6. Balls

Hockey balls are a popular alternative to pucks for off-ice practice and street hockey games. They come in various materials, such as PVC, rubber, or high-density foam, and different hardness levels to accommodate diverse playing surfaces and temperatures. Some popular hockey ball brands include Mylec, A&R, and Franklin.

Conclusion

Having the right hockey stick accessories is crucial for players seeking to maximize their performance on and off the ice. By investing in high-quality tapes, stick grips, end plugs, stick wax, pucks, and balls, you can ensure better control, comfort, and protection for your equipment, ultimately helping you elevate your game and get the most out of your hockey experience.