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The Best Hockey Tape: A Comprehensive Guide

Who knew it would be so much fun researching hockey stick tape! Our guide to help choose the best hockey stick or equipment tape for your needs.

Deborah Clarke
Aug 28, 2022
19 min read
Seasonal-WinterOutdoors - Recreation and Sports
Yellow Hockey Tape being applied to Hockey Stick
Best Hockey Tape | FavReviews.com

Hockey tape is an important item for any hockey player.  It's used for taping hockey sticks and clear hockey tape is used for taping socks and shin pads.  

Who knew it would be so much fun researching hockey stick tape! There are many different brands and types of hockey stick tape, it's important to have a good look if you are going to have the best taped hockey stick at the arena.

In this article, we'll discuss the different types of hockey players tape and how to choose the best types and colors for the hockey players in your home.

Green Hockey Tape on stick
Best Hockey Tape Colors For Players in Your Family | FavReviews.com

There are many benefits to using a good hockey tape and having a good tape job. For one, it improves the grip on the stick and it will help you better control the puck.   A good quality hockey tape will last longer, so you don't spend as much time retaping your hockey stick.

Here are some of the features to look for when choosing hockey tape:

  • First, you'll want to consider the adhesive. The best hockey stick or equipment tape will have a strong adhesive that will stay in place in cold or wet conditions.
  • Next, you'll want to choose a durable tape that doesn't easily tear once applied.
  • Finally, you'll want to choose a tape that is easy to apply and remove.  Check to see if it is a tape that perforates easily with your hands, this will help to quickly put it on and take it off when needed.

The best hockey stick tape will have a strong adhesive that will stay in place in cold or wet conditions helping players to maintain maximum comfort and limit some sports related injuries. With good stick wax and a durable brand of tape, it should be easy to apply and remove. Look for a tape that perforates easily with your hands to help make putting it on and taking it off a breeze. With these features in mind, you'll be sure to choose the best tape for your needs the same way professional athletes choose athletic tape.


How We Choose the Best Hockey Tape:

You want hockey tape that is easy to apply and will last, but it's hard to know where to start.

It can be tough to figure out which is the best tape, especially when there are so many variations on the market today.

For Example:  

  • Hockey Stick Blades: Players typically use Cloth Tape, it can be 100% cotton or a polyester/cotton blend, for their stick blades.  While it's available in many team colors, the traditional colors used are black or white.
  • Hockey Stick Knobs: Players use either Grip Tape or Cloth Tape for the handle of their stick, both come in a variety of colors.  Grip tape sticks to itself without adhesive.  Some players use it by itself, others use it as an overwrap.  It doesn't leave an adhesive residue when removed. Players find grip tape extremely comfortable.
  • Hockey Shin Pads (and socks): Players typically use Clear Tape for hockey shin pads.

To save you time, we've done the research for you.  And we had fun doing it!  After reading through hundreds of reviews on Amazon, and talking to some of our hockey-crazy family members, our team has compiled a list of the top hockey tape brands and package options, to make your choice easier.

We know the only thing better than finding the perfect hockey tape when you need it, is the peace of mind that comes with knowing it has positive reviews after being purchased and tested by other families with multiple hockey players in the same house, just like yours.

We trust that you'll find your next favorite item from the list we've researched for you below. All of these products have been hand-picked by our editors and we won't recommend something we wouldn't use in our own family. Some may even be items that we already use! We may receive a small compensation if you decide to buy something (that's how we keep the lights on). Some reviews have been edited for length and clarity. Have fun searching for your next fav product!

We want to help you to have the best purchasing experience possible.

So take a look at our family ‘fav’s’, and get the best hockey stick or equipment tape for your family of hockey players as possible.


Howies Hockey Stick Premium Cloth Tape or Shin Tape 3-Pack You Choose Colors PLUS Free Tape TIN

BEST HOCKEY STICK TAPE with CUSTOM TIN

3 Pack Hockey Tape with Free Tin

HOWIES Premium Cloth Hockey Tape | 3-Pack with Tin

Check Price on Amazon

WHY IT’s ONE OF OUR FAV’s

Howies Hockey Tape is proudly made in the USA and Canada, so that is worth pointing out right off the top.  We also like the gimmick behind Howie's free hockey tape tin with your order of 3 rolls of hockey tape.  Keeping the tin full in your hockey bag ensures you will always have tape when you need it.

This 3-Pack with Howies Tape Tin is available in a lot of combinations depending on your needs, all black tape, all white tape or a combination of black/white, or even clear (for taping your socks) and either white or black.

We are pretty sure you will find a combination of tape to suit your needs.

Howies Hockey Tape made in USA and Canada

FAV FEATURES

If you're looking for a hockey tape that will provide a strong adhesive bond and durability, then this is the tape for you. This tape is made from a 50% polyethene and 50% cotton blend cloth, making it extremely durable. The tight weave and heavy adhesive combination create a watertight bond with your hockey stick blade, making it perfect for those who want to stay on the ice during the game. Additionally, this tape is hand tear-able and will not leave residue, making it easy to use and remove, without sacrificing quality. It is an inch wide x 25 yards long and made in the USA.


EAGLES Hockey Tape - Multipurpose Cloth Tape

Amazon's Choice for Multipurpose Tape

Amazon's Choice for Economical Multipurpose Tape

EAGLES Hockey Tape - Multipurpose Cloth Tape | 2-Pack Black

Check Price on Amazon

WHY IT’s ONE OF OUR FAV’s

This is Amazon's choice for an economical 2 Pack of Black Hockey Stick Tape.  Black is the most popular color used for hockey sticks.  The Eagles Hockey Tape is the perfect choice for protecting your stick and improving your game. This tape is easy to apply with no sticky residue. Made of woven cotton, it's flexible and easy to tear with your hands.  It also bonds well to socks, pads, and other gear.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Each tape roll is about an inch wide x 22 yards or 2.5cm x 20m so it's an easy size to work with and wrap. The tape is made of woven cotton which is good for easier ripping, yet also strong and non-reflective. Plus, the adhesive will stick to metal, plastic, concrete, rubber, skin, glass or smooth surfaces. So you can make sure you're always game-ready with Eagles Hockey Tape.


Renfrew Pro Pro-Blade XT Black Cloth Hockey Tape, 3 Pack

Amazon's Choice for Hockey Tape

Amazon's Choice for Hockey Tape

Renfrew PRO-BLADE Cloth Hockey Tape | 3-Pack | Black

Check Price on Amazon

WHY IT’s ONE OF OUR FAV’s

The Renfrew brand of hockey tape is one of our favorites because they support hockey heros everywhere, at every level.  From peewee to professionals they support hockey dreams at every level.

Renfrew Pro is made in Canada and has been the hockey tape used by Stanley Cup Championship teams for the past twenty years.   So who are we to argue with that?

We also like the variety of colors, beyond the traditional black and white, and team brands available on their hockey tape. See more examples below.

Female Hockey Player adding black hockey tape to her stick

FAV FEATURES

This tape is specifically designed for today's composite hockey sticks.   In this package of 3, you get their black cloth tape that incorporates an advanced sticky formula to the polyester/cotton cloth base.  This results in a cloth tape that is more substantial and provides increased wear and tear. This XT version features extra adhesive to last even longer on your stick and will proved even better grip.

It's easy to tear by hand, is moisture protective and will protect your stick from abrasion.  Ultimately, improves grip on the handle and will improve puck control.

Of course it's also available in white, and now lots of plain colors, camouflage and even with your favorite team logos!


Renfrew Pro-Blade Awareness Cloth Tape - Hockey Fights Cancer | Pink | 2-Pack

EDITORS FAVORITE TO SUPPORT BREAST CANCER

RENFREW ATHLETIC TAPE

Editors Favorite to Support Breast Cance| Renfrew Athletic Tape

Renfrew Pro Pro-Blade Awareness Cloth Tape - Hockey Fights Cancer | Pink | 2-Pack | Check Out all 12 Colors Here too!

Check Price on Amazon

WHY IT’s ONE OF OUR FAV’s

You can imagine the pride the parents and grandparents experienced when their daughters and granddaughter's, 10-year-olds, came onto the ice with pink tape on their sticks to support breast cancer.  They were playing in a Hockey Fights Cancer benefit tournament to support an out-of-town coach who had breast cancer.  The coaches went out and got pink hockey tape to wrap the girls sticks to show their support.  Those girls were proud to show their support and used the pink tape for a long time after the benefit tournament was over.

Renfrew Pro is one of the companies that support charitable events by providing hockey tape of multi-colors.  We like the two different pink colors they make, and we think you will too!

Renfrew Pro Pink Hockey Tape | Renfrew Pro Image | Shared by FavReviews.com

FAV FEATURES

At Renfrew Pro, they're proud to help raise awareness and support the fight against cancer through special initiatives like Hockey Fights Cancer and Pink the Rink charities.

They've developed custom Pro-Blade Cancer Awareness cloth tapes (like this pink above) to support these causes. These tapes are specially designed for today's composite hockey sticks. They're made with an advanced adhesive formulation applied to a polyester/cotton cloth base, resulting in a more substantial cloth tape with increased wear characteristics.

Pink, at this link, is sold in 2-Packs, order as many as you like!  

PS - At this link 12 different colors are available in 2-Packs (not just pink).


Renfrew, Pro-Blade Cloth Hockey Tape, 1" (Purple, 25m)

BEST PURPLE HOCKEY TAPE TO SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH

Best Purple Hockey Tape to Support Mental Health Awareness

Renfrew Pro Purple Hockey Tape | PURPLE | 2-Pack

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WHY IT’s ONE OF OUR FAV’s

It was Sidney Crosby who created quite a buzz with the purple tape jobs on his hockey stick long after the mental health awareness charity game was over.   Renfrew Pro supports all charities and all levels of hockey from peewee to NHL players.  We love this purple tape too Sidney.

FAV FEATURES

Renfrew Pro 1-Inch Cloth Hockey Tape is designed to last longer on composite hockey sticks. the 1" cloth tape won't wash out or fade after getting wet.  The stronger cloth used lasts longer on a one-piece stick blade.

The advanced adhesive formulation provides increased wear resistance, while the moisture-resistant properties discourage water penetration and snow build-up. The tape is also soft and conformable, molding to the contour of the blade for enhanced puck control.

From this link you have the choice of 12 colors (in 2-Packs)! Check them out HERE.


Renfrew Pro-Blade Rainbow Cloth Hockey Tape 1" x 18m | Sold in single rolls

BEST RAINBOW HOCKEY TAPE TO SUPPORT THE PRIDE MOVEMENT

Best Rainbow Hockey Tape

Renfrew Pro Rainbow Hockey Tape | Sold in Single Rolls

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WHY IT’s ONE OF OUR FAV’s

The Rainbow Renfrew Pro 1-inch cloth hockey tape is a departure from traditional tape and supports the pride movement. It allows all hockey players to be supportive of all people.  It warmed our hearts to see the positive reviews from players using the stick tape.  Reviews like this one:  "Looked Cool. It's like any other hockey tape, but It represents who I am!"

FAV FEATURES

Renfrew Pro 1-Inch Rainbow Cloth Hockey Tape is designed, like the others, to last longer on composite ice hockey sticks. This colorful 1" cloth tape makes a statement and won't wash out or fade after getting wet.  

The stronger cloth used lasts longer on one-piece sticks. The advanced adhesive formulation provides increased wear resistance, while the moisture-resistant properties discourage water penetration and snow build-up.

This cloth tape is also soft and conformable, molding to the contour of the blade for enhanced puck control.   The rainbow hockey tape is sold in single rolls.


IPG ST Sports Tape Bulk Package of 22 Rolls of Hockey Tape

BEST BULK HOCKEY TAPE FOR STICKS and SHIN PADS

Best Bulk Hockey Tape for Sticks and Shin Pads

IPG ST Sports Tape | Bulk Package of 22 Rolls Hockey Tape | Black or White for Sticks, Clear for Shin Pads

Check Price on Amazon

WHY IT’s ONE OF OUR FAV’s

ST Sports Tape by IPG is made for Pros.  It's one of our favorites because it's made in Canada for professional hockey players, so we know IPG isn't messing around. This convenient multi-pack includes tried and true hockey tape that you can surely rely on. With this tape in your hockey bag, you can focus on the win.   They even gave us a pro tip to pass along:

PRO TIP FROM IPG SPORTS TAPE:

"Whether you're wrapping your stick for comfort and control or building your knob to your personal preference - wrap the hockey tape flat and even. Don't rush it, you'll get the perfect grip."


FAV FEATURES

Our favorite features include a strong self-adhesive component so your taping will last the whole game.  The unique serrated edges of the cotton tape make it easy to tape, tear and go. The cloth tape is also water resistant, so snow or ice build-up won't affect your performance.

This tape is durable, holds tight, and provides the perfect grip with less frayed edges so you can focus on your hockey skills, not your equipment.  And, buying a bulk package you can choose either: 12 black hockey tape or 12 white hockey tape, to go with the 10 rolls of clear tape for shin pads - for a total of 22 rolls, that should last you a while [check the bulk buys here].


Best Hockey Tape FAQs

Welcome to the FAQ section of our comprehensive guide for the Best Hockey Tape. In this segment, we aim to answer all of your burning questions about hockey tape – what it is, why you need it, how to choose it and more. We've scoured the internet and consulted with professional athletes and coaches to bring you reliable, real-time information. Whether you're a seasoned player looking to upgrade your gear or a beginner trying to understand the basics, this section will serve as your one-stop resource for everything you need to know about hockey tape.

What is the best hockey tape?

Assuming you are asking about the best type of tape to use for hockey equipment, there are a few different options. Many people opt for cloth hockey tape because it is durable and provides a good grip. Others prefer electrical tape or friction tape for its sticking power. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. You will find hockey tape for sticks (typically black, white, team or charity colors) or tape for hockey shin pads which is typically clear.

There are three brands of hockey tape we found to manufacture the best hockey equipment tape in the market for kids hockey sticks to the pros. They are:

1) Renfrew Pro;

2) IPG ST Sports Tape; and

3) Howies Hockey Tape.

Why do hockey players need the best hockey stick tape?

Hockey players need the best hockey tape because it helps them stick a shot and grip the puck for a better shot or stick handling. Pro-Blade Cloth tapes for hockey stick blades uses a polyester/cotton blend. Without tape the puck would be more difficult to pick up and stick handle because the stick blade would be slippery. Grip tape also provides a better grip for the handle of your stick and knob at the top of the stick. Poor-quality tape can cause the stick blade to be slippery and may not provide enough protection on puck impact.

How can parents of hockey players ensure they always have the best hockey stick tape on hand?

The best way for parents of hockey players to ensure they always have the best hockey stick tapes on hand is to buy it in bulk. This way, they can always have a few extra rolls on hand in case of emergencies. Plus, buying in bulk often saves money in the long run.

What are some of the benefits of using the best hockey tape?

Some of the benefits of using the best hockey stick tape include increased stick control, better grip, and more protection from impact. Hockey players who use the best tape will often find that their sticks last longer and they perform better on the ice.

How can I find the best stick hockey tape for my needs?

The best way to find the best hockey stick tape for your needs is to read reviews from other hockey players. This way, you can get an unbiased opinion about which brands are the best and which ones to avoid. You can also ask your local hockey shop for their recommendations.

We reviewed three great manufacturers of hockey tape who produce tape for every level of ice hockey play, from peewee to the professionals.

They are:

1) Renfrew Pro;

2) IPG ST Sports Tape; and

3) Howies Hockey Tape.

What are the benefits of using hockey tape?

Hockey tape has many benefits, including increased stick control, better grip on the hockey stick blade, and more protection from impact. 

Cloth tapes are available in 100% cotton or a polyester/cotton combination. These are typically used for hockey stick blades.

Grip tapes are typically used for hockey stick handles and knobs. Grip tape sticks to itself without adhesive. Some players use it by itself, others use it as an overwrap. It doesn't leave an adhesive residue when removed. Players find it extremely comfortable . See them here at the Renfrew Pro store on Amazon.

Hockey players who use tape will often find that their sticks last longer and they perform better on the ice.

How does hockey tape help improve my game?

Hockey tape can help improve your ice hockey game by providing a better grip on your stick, increased stick control, and more protection from impact. It is important to choose the right tape for your needs, as different tapes offer different levels of support.

Why is Canadian-made hockey tape the best?

Well for starters, ice hockey has long been their national game. Also, Canadian-made hockey tape is often considered the best because it is designed to withstand the cold temperatures and harsh conditions of winter. This type of tape is also more durable, so it will last longer and provide better protection for your stick. Check out the IPG's brand ST Sports Tape, made in Canada, or the Renfrew Pro brand made in USA and Canada.

What are some of the best brands of hockey tape?

In our research for the best hockey tape and after talking to other hockey families, we narrowed down three brands of hockey tape you can be confident purchasing. They are:

1) Renfrew Pro;

2) IPG ST Sports Tape; and

3) Howies Hockey Tape.

What is the best way to apply hockey tape?

The best way to apply hockey grip tape is to start at the bottom of the stick and wrap it up towards the top. Make sure that the tape is tight and there are no gaps. You can also use a hockey stick blade guard to help keep the tape in place.

What is the best way to remove hockey tape?

The best way to remove hockey tape is to use a sharp knife or razor blade. Start at the top of the stick and carefully peel the tape off. If the tape is stubborn, you can use a hair dryer to heat it up and make it easier to remove.

How often should I replace my hockey tape?

Hockey tape should be replaced when it starts to lose its stickiness or when it gets dirty. Depending on how often you play, you may need to replace your tape every few weeks or so when you start to see frayed edges.

What do you get a hockey guy for his birthday?

We like the idea of gifting 'experiences', so why not consider getting your hockey guy or gal tickets to a professional hockey game near you? Or for local little leaguers how about tickets to a college hockey game (if you are in the USA), or junior/senior hockey game (if you are in Canada).

We also like gifting 'consumable' items, stuff that has no particular size and is something your hockey player always uses. So how about a hockey tape kit, with all the essentials needed for a hockey bag? Or a variety box of hockey tape? Or a hockey tape accessory bag, a zippered pouch specifically for keeping hockey tape organized in players hockey bag.


What do you get a hockey boy for Christmas?

How about gifting something you can do together? We like the idea of gifting 'experiences' and making memories. So, how about getting your hockey guy or gal tickets to a college, junior/senior, or professional hockey game near you?

Here at FavReviews, we are also practical after all we review the most popular products families use. So if you haven't yet finished wrapping, what about gifting something practical that your hockey boy (or girl) uses, something that has no particular size to worry about? Every hockey player goes through hockey tape like crazy for their sticks and to hold their shin pads in place. So how about a hockey tape kit, with all the essentials needed for a hockey bag? Or a box of hockey tape? Or a hockey tape accessory bag, a zippered pouch specifically for keeping hockey tape organized in players hockey bags?


So what are the best hockey stick tapes?

The answer to that question may vary from player to player, but we’re pretty confident with the options provided above.  Our research, based on reading hundreds of reviews and speaking with other hockey families helped us to narrow your choices.

So there you have it.  Playing hockey is fun. You don't have to spend money on expensive tapes for your hockey stick.  We hope you found the information helpful and that it will help to make your purchasing decision for hockey stick tape easier and more confidently.

All you need to do now is tap the button below one of the tape photos for quick access to check the price and order on Amazon.

Happy Shopping!

See you again soon.

The FavReviews Team

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