The Different Ways to Tape Your Stick Knob
Everybody has their own way of customizing their hockey sticks. From unique tape jobs on the blade all the way to unique patterns throughout the shaft of the stick like Phil Kessel has done throughout his career. However, one of the most important parts of customizing your twig is to make sure the knob feels comfortable and improves your control with your upper control hand.
Types of Knobs
One of the most important parts of taping the knob of your stick is that it works for you. The goal is to optimize control and comfort, and if you have those, you will have the confidence to play your best game. Some examples of knobs:
The Classic
This tape job is as easy as it gets to ensure a simple, clean handle for your new stick. Essentially, take your roll of tape and wrap around the top of your stick (after it has been cut to appropriate height) and go around as many times as needed. Most go between 10-20, but the knob will be an important cap to keep your upper hand in place, then smoothly wrap the lower 4-6 inches of your shift for palm control.
The Candy Cane
This is a fantastic handle for players of all skills. For younger players it is great for control and to make sure the player has as many contact points as possible. For this, start similar to the Classic (see above), but then let the knob hang approximately 18-24 inches and spin the tape to make what can be described as a tape rope. wrap that around the shaft with spacing to match the players fingers as best as possible, and then cover tightly back up the shaft to make this grip as strong as possible for the player.
The Purist
This is as simple and minimalist as it can before your stick handle. For this approach, you simply start the wrap of the tape from the tape down from the tape with a single layer and wrap approximately 4-6 inches. That's it! So easy, so clean, so pure. This knob, or lack thereof, is not for everybody, but those that use it, love it!
At the end of the day, what matters is how you are most comfortable and what gives you the best control of your stick. Because that control is what means keeping, or losing the puck. However, you tape yours, let us know what you think, but be sure to wrap it with Carter Hockey Tape!
