How to choose the best lacrosse tape for midfield dominance. What are the top brands for grip and durability. How does tape thickness affect gameplay. Which colors and styles enhance visibility on the field. How to properly apply lacrosse tape for optimal performance.
Enhancing Visibility: Popular Lacrosse Tape Colors and Styles
Lacrosse midfielders can significantly improve their on-field visibility by selecting the right tape colors and styles. Bright, fluorescent hues like neon yellow, green, orange, and pink stand out vividly against the green playing surface, making it easier for teammates to spot you during fast-paced gameplay.
Beyond solid colors, unique tape patterns can further enhance visibility and grip:
- Checkerboard: Offers contrasting color boxes for increased visibility from all angles
- Tire tread: Mimics grooved tire lines for maximum control
- Spiral wrap: Creates an eye-catching barber pole stripe effect
Combining these patterns with bright colors can amplify your presence on the midline, giving you a competitive edge.
Matching Team Colors and Expressing Individuality
When choosing lacrosse tape, consider your team’s colors for a unified look. For instance, orange and black tape complements Virginia Cavalier gear, while Carolina blue pairs well with white for UNC. Some players use specific colors to support causes, such as pink for breast cancer awareness.
Ultimately, your tape choice allows you to express your personality on the field. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect balance of visibility, team spirit, and individual flair.
Top Lacrosse Tape Brands for Superior Grip and Durability
Selecting a high-quality lacrosse tape brand is crucial for optimal performance. Leading manufacturers have refined their products to meet the demands of elite college and professional players. Here are some top brands to consider:
- STX: Known for their Super Power tape with excellent grip and shock absorption
- Maverik: Offers the ultra-sticky Command X tape, ideal for face-off specialists
- Warrior: Features the customizable Neo Grip and Rit Dye tapes
- Brine: Provides reliable options for various playing styles
- StringKing: Offers high-performance tapes for discerning players
These brands consistently deliver products that withstand intense gameplay without compromising performance.
Spotlight on STX Lacrosse Tape
STX is a market leader in lacrosse tape production. Their Super Power tape features a high-friction coated surface that provides exceptional grip and shock absorption. For midfielders seeking maximum visibility, the STX Hi-Vis tape in neon green is an excellent choice.
Maverik’s Command X: A Face-off Specialist’s Dream
Maverik’s Command X tape boasts one of the stickiest surfaces available. Its heavy-duty adhesive backing and textured surface create an almost Velcro-like grip, making it ideal for face-off specialists and defensemen who frequently battle for ground balls.
Choosing the Right Tape Thickness for Your Position
Lacrosse tape thickness plays a crucial role in your stick’s performance. The ideal thickness varies depending on your position and playing style:
- Attackmen and offensive midfielders: 3-5 mil thickness
- Defensemen and long stick middies: 5-8 mil thickness
- Goalies: 8-10 mil thickness
Why does thickness matter? Thinner tape maximizes feel and ball control, while thicker tape provides more cushioning and protection.
Tape Thickness for Attackmen and Offensive Midfielders
Offensive players benefit from thinner tape (3-5 mil) as it allows for better touch when cradling, passing, and shooting. This thickness provides the right balance of feel and grip without adding unnecessary weight to the stick.
Defensive Players and Long Stick Middies
For those in more physical positions, thicker tape (5-8 mil) offers added protection during intense gameplay. This extra cushioning helps absorb the shock from stick checks and ground ball battles.
Weather-Resistant Lacrosse Tape Options
Playing in various weather conditions requires tape that can withstand the elements. Many top brands offer weather-resistant options that maintain grip and performance in rain, snow, or extreme heat.
Features of Weather-Resistant Lacrosse Tape
- Water-repellent coating
- UV-resistant materials
- Enhanced adhesive for extreme temperatures
- Quick-drying properties
Investing in weather-resistant tape ensures consistent performance regardless of the playing conditions, giving you an edge on the field.
Proper Lacrosse Tape Application Techniques
Applying lacrosse tape correctly is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Clean the stick handle thoroughly
- Start at the bottom and work your way up
- Apply with consistent tension
- Overlap each layer slightly
- Smooth out any air bubbles
- Finish with a firm press to secure the edges
Proper application ensures maximum grip, reduces slippage, and extends the life of your tape job.
Tips for a Long-Lasting Tape Job
To make your lacrosse tape last longer:
- Use a pre-wrap or grip enhancer underneath
- Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures when not in use
- Re-tape regularly to maintain optimal performance
- Consider using end caps to prevent fraying
Customizing Your Lacrosse Stick with Specialty Tapes
Beyond standard options, specialty tapes allow for unique customization of your lacrosse stick. These can include:
- Camouflage patterns
- Metallic finishes
- Glow-in-the-dark tape
- Team logo prints
- Custom-printed designs
Specialty tapes not only enhance your stick’s appearance but can also provide functional benefits like improved grip or visibility in low-light conditions.
Creating a Signature Look
Combining different tape styles, colors, and patterns can help you create a unique, signature look for your stick. This personalization can boost confidence and make your equipment easily identifiable on and off the field.
Eco-Friendly Lacrosse Tape Options
As environmental consciousness grows in the sports world, some manufacturers are producing eco-friendly lacrosse tape options. These tapes are made from sustainable materials and utilize environmentally responsible production processes.
Benefits of Eco-Friendly Lacrosse Tape
- Biodegradable materials
- Reduced carbon footprint in production
- Often made from recycled content
- Comparable performance to traditional tapes
Choosing eco-friendly tape allows players to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing performance on the field.
Budget-Friendly Lacrosse Tape Alternatives
While premium lacrosse tapes offer excellent performance, budget-conscious players have alternatives that can still provide good grip and durability:
- Generic sports tapes
- Electrical tape
- Hockey tape
- Tennis racket overgrip
These alternatives may not offer the same level of specialized performance as lacrosse-specific tapes, but they can be effective for casual play or practice sessions.
DIY Lacrosse Grip Solutions
For players looking to save money or experiment with unique grip solutions, consider these DIY options:
- Mixing sand with spray adhesive for a gritty texture
- Using pine tar for enhanced stick
- Applying a thin layer of rubber cement before taping
While these DIY solutions can be effective, always check league regulations to ensure compliance with equipment rules.
Maintaining Your Lacrosse Tape for Optimal Performance
Proper maintenance of your lacrosse tape can significantly extend its lifespan and ensure consistent performance. Follow these tips to keep your tape in top condition:
- Clean the tape regularly with a damp cloth
- Allow the stick to dry completely after use in wet conditions
- Store your stick in a cool, dry place
- Avoid leaving your stick in direct sunlight for extended periods
- Replace the tape when it shows signs of wear or loss of grip
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Lacrosse Tape
Knowing when to replace your tape is crucial for maintaining optimal performance. Look out for these indicators:
- Visible wear and tear
- Decreased grip or slipperiness
- Peeling or bubbling of the tape
- Discoloration or fading
- Accumulation of dirt or grime that won’t clean off
Regular inspection of your tape can help you catch these issues early and maintain peak performance on the field.
Innovative Lacrosse Tape Technologies
The world of lacrosse tape is constantly evolving, with new technologies emerging to enhance player performance. Some cutting-edge innovations include:
- Smart tapes with embedded sensors for performance tracking
- Nano-grip technology for unparalleled stick control
- Temperature-responsive materials that adjust grip based on playing conditions
- Antimicrobial tapes that resist odor and bacteria growth
While some of these technologies are still in development, they represent the future of lacrosse tape and equipment customization.
The Future of Lacrosse Tape
As lacrosse continues to grow in popularity, we can expect to see further advancements in tape technology. Potential future developments might include:
- Customizable electronic displays integrated into the tape
- Biodegradable tapes that break down completely after use
- Adaptive materials that change properties based on player movements
- 3D-printed grip patterns for ultimate customization
These innovations could revolutionize how players customize and interact with their equipment, potentially leading to enhanced performance and a more personalized playing experience.
Lacrosse Tape Safety Considerations
While lacrosse tape is generally safe to use, it’s important to be aware of potential safety considerations:
- Skin irritation or allergic reactions to certain tape materials
- Risk of cuts or abrasions from exposed tape edges
- Potential for bacterial growth if tape is not properly maintained
- Choking hazard for young children if tape pieces come loose
To minimize these risks, always use high-quality tape from reputable manufacturers and follow proper application and maintenance procedures.
Hypoallergenic Lacrosse Tape Options
For players with sensitive skin or allergies, hypoallergenic lacrosse tape options are available. These tapes are made from materials less likely to cause skin reactions and are often free from common irritants like latex.
Professional Lacrosse Players’ Tape Preferences
Studying the tape choices of professional lacrosse players can provide valuable insights for aspiring athletes. While preferences vary, some common trends among pros include:
- Preference for thinner tapes among offensive players for enhanced feel
- Use of specialized grip-enhancing tapes by face-off specialists
- Combination of different tape types for optimal performance in various weather conditions
- Custom color schemes that align with team branding or personal style
Remember that what works for a pro might not be the best choice for every player. It’s essential to experiment and find what works best for your individual playing style and position.
Interviews with Pro Lacrosse Players on Tape Choices
To gain deeper insights into professional tape preferences, consider these quotes from top players:
- “I prefer a thin, high-grip tape that allows me to feel the ball during quick stick moves.” – Offensive Midfielder
- “For face-offs, I use the stickiest tape I can find. It gives me that extra edge in the battle for possession.” – Face-off Specialist
- “I switch between different tapes depending on the weather. Thicker, more absorbent tape for rainy games, and a thinner, tackier option for dry conditions.” – Versatile Attackman
These insights demonstrate the thoughtful approach pro players take when selecting their lacrosse tape.
Popular Lacrosse Tape Colors and Styles for Maximum Visibility
Lacrosse tape comes in a wide variety of colors and styles to match your position, team colors, and personal preference. Midfielders in particular can benefit from choosing tape colors that maximize their visibility on the field. Bright colors like neon yellow, green, orange, and pink allow your teammates to spot you more easily, whether you’re cutting through traffic, dodging defenders, or winding up for a shot. These vivid tones really stand out against the green grass of the playing surface. Colored tape also helps differentiate your stick from the opposition when battling for ground balls and facing off.
Beyond high-visibility shades, lacrosse tape styles like checkerboard, tire tread, and spiral wrap offer unique visuals. Checkerboard tape provides contrasting boxes of color for increased visibility from all angles. The alternating pattern also provides added grip and traction on the stick. Tire tread texture mimics the grooved lines of car tires for maximum control. Spiral wrapped tape takes on a barber pole stripe look that is eye catching as you cradle and pass downfield. Combining bright fluorescent colors with these tape patterns amplifies your presence on the midline.
When selecting your lacrosse tape, think about matching team colors for unity. For example, orange and black tape complements Virginia Cavalier gear, while Carolina blue pairs nicely with white for UNC. Tape colors can also represent special causes or memorials. Some players use pink tape to promote breast cancer awareness. Unique tape colors and patterns allow midfielders to express their personality and individuality as well. Overall, the right lacrosse tape color and style improves visibility and confidence for dominating between the lines. Test out different combinations until you find your ideal match.
Top Lacrosse Tape Brands For Excellent Grip and Durability
When shopping for the best lacrosse tape, the brand you choose matters. Stick with leading lacrosse brands like STX, Maverik, Warrior, Brine, and StringKing to ensure excellent grip, control, and durability. These major manufacturers have perfected their lacrosse tape products over many years catering to elite college and pro players. Their tape withstands intense game play and stick abuse without compromising performance. Here is an overview of the top lacrosse brands to consider for your tape purchase:
STX makes some of the most popular lacrosse tapes on the market. The STX Super Power tape provides incredible grip and shock absorption thanks to its high-friction coated surface. The texture allows for great ball control during cradling, shooting, and passing. STX also offers a bevy of colorful tape options like their neon green Hi-Vis tape perfect for midfielders. The STX line balances stick feel with extra tackiness and traction.
Maverik boasts one of the stickiest lacrosse tapes available in their Command X. The heavy duty adhesive backing and textured surface creates almost velcro-like grip ideal for face-off specialists and defensemen battling for ground balls. The Mobster tape has a slightly smoother feel but still excels in all weather conditions. Both Maverik options hold up well during gameplay.
Warrior Neo Grip and Rit Dye lacrosse tapes offer color customization and elite level performance. The Neo Grip comes in basic colors but also unique wraps like Money, Carbon Fiber, and Octo-Grip for added traction and aesthetics. Rit Dye lets you dye tape any color you like for full customization. The special coating on Warrior tape ensures excellent grip and control in all conditions.
When selecting your next lacrosse tape, go with a proven brand you can trust. Leading manufacturers like STX, Maverik, Warrior, Brine, and StringKing dominate the category for good reason. Investing in premium lacrosse tape ensures you get the most out of your stick during competition.
Getting the Ideal Tape Thickness for Your Lacrosse Position
Lacrosse tape comes in varying thicknesses, and choosing the right one for your position and style of play is important. Thicker tape provides more cushioning and protection, while thinner tape maximizes feel and ball control. Finding the ideal balance usually comes down to your position on the field.
For attackmen and offensive midfielders, thinner lacrosse tape in the 3-5 mil range allows for better touch on cradling, passing, and shooting. You want to feel the ball release off your stick with finesse, so less tape buildup gives you a precision advantage around the crease. Thinner tape also weighs down your stick less for quicker releases. Just make sure you still have enough grip and shock absorption for stick checks and hard passes from teammates.
Defensemen and long stick middies rely on thicker 5-8 mil lacrosse tape for maximum protection during physical play. Battling for ground balls and one-on-one defense requires extra durability to withstand hacking and slashing. The additional padding also helps when blocking shots up close. More tape cushioning becomes crucial when you extend your stick out further with a long pole. While some feel is sacrificed, the extra protection and grip is necessary in your defensive role.
For face-off specialists, tape in the 4-6 mil range balances grip, protection, and quickness. You need to rapidly pickup and move the ball, but also brace for collisions at the ‘X’. A mid-level tape thickness gives you the best of both worlds. Goalies also benefit from tape around 5 mils since they interact with lots of high-velocity shots. Dialing in the right tape thickness takes experimentation, but finding your lacrosse position’s sweet spot makes a big difference.
Popular Budget-Friendly Lacrosse Tape Options
Lacrosse tape doesn’t have to be expensive to deliver solid performance. There are many budget-friendly tape options that provide excellent grip and durability at an affordable price point. Being cost conscious about your tape purchase allows you to rewrap your stick more frequently to maximize control and feel.
Coach’s tape is the most economical lacrosse tape choice at around $2 per roll. Brands like PowerFlex offer basic white cotton tape with reliable adhesion properties. The cotton gives decent cushioning and traction at a fraction of the cost of branded lacrosse offerings. It may not last as long under heavy use, but is a great practice tape option.
Value packs from lacrosse brands provide multiple rolls of tape at a discounted bulk rate. For example, you can get 3 rolls of STX Super Power tape for around $5 instead of $2 per roll individually. Maverik and Brine also offer multi-pack deals to stock up on tape. Opting for previous year clearance tape can yield big savings as well.
If you play at a high level, using lower quality tape may compromise performance. But for most youth, high school, and casual players, discount coach’s tape or bulk value packs are perfect. Some players even use hockey tape like Renfrew white tape with success. Trying out budget tape options will allow you to wrap a fresh grip more often without breaking the bank.
Pro Lacrosse Tape Application Tips For Optimal Grip
Applying lacrosse tape properly is just as important as choosing the right tape itself. Follow these pro taping techniques to maximize grip, feel, and performance from your tape job:
Start with a clean, dry stick shaft before applying new tape. Use a towel to wipe dirt, debris, and old tape adhesive off completely. This gives the new tape a consistent base layer to stick to. Apply some sticky substance like table syrup on the shaft first for an even stronger bond.
Tape from the top of the head down towards the bottom of the shaft in overlapping layers. Stretch the tape slightly as you wrap for added tackiness and friction. Angle the tape slight off-center down the shaft length for optimal grip. Leave about a pinky fingernail’s gap between each wrap to prevent bulky buildup.
To finish, tear the tape cleanly rather than slicing with scissors. Use the leftover tape to wrap over the end of the shaft covering any adhesive. Rub vigorously over the tape job to activate the stickiness before playing. Finally, use a lighter to quickly heat and seal the edges of the tape. Your tape shouldn’t unravel or come loose during play if applied correctly.
Taking the time to properly tape your lacrosse stick will pay dividends in consistent grip and control. Ask a veteran teammate to teach proper taping technique if needed. Dialing in the details of your tape job gives you the confidence to perform your best in games.
Crease Attackmen Benefit from Colored Lacrosse Tape
Adding colored lacrosse tape to your stick can provide valuable visibility and deception around the crease as an attackman. Tape colors make it easier for your teammates to spot you for quick sticks and feeds in tight quarters. Bright tones also confuse defenders and goalies when cutting and dodging towards the cage.
Neon yellow and green tape stand out clearly against most grass fields and backgrounds. Attackmen weave through multiple defenders when initiating the offense, making high-visibility tape ideal. Goalies also must track a mosaic of moving bodies and sticks during scrums, so colored tape simplifies picking you out.
Complementary tape and head colors blend together deceptively. Matching yellow tape and yellow shooter strings disguise your exact stick position. This makes it tougher for defenders to knock down shots and passes. Some sneaky players even tape the first half of their stick dark, and switch to neon tones halfway up to confuse checks.
Testing different color combinations during shooting and passing drills will reveal which stands out best. Keep in mind colored tape fades over time from dirt, debris, and wear. But rewrapping your stick regularly with fresh vivid tones keeps you strategically camouflaged and visible around the crease when attacking.
Textured Lacrosse Tape For Ultimate Grip and Control
Adding texture to your lacrosse tape takes grip and ball control to the next level. Unique tape finishes like sandpaper, dimples, and ridges give you an advantage in all conditions. The extra friction and tactile feel improves handling, passing, catching, and shot power.
Sandpaper lacrosse tape provides a super coarse surface for traction even in the rain. Brands like Lizard Skins offer ultra-gritty tape perfect for midfield play. The abrasion helps tame errant passes and provides texture you can feel during cradling. Just beware of abrasion on your gloves with extended use.
Ninja Grip dimpled lacrosse tape takes inspiration from golf balls for reduced slipperiness. The textured crater-like pattern grips the ball better on passes, shots, and scooping ground balls. Dimpling also flexes well around the stick head during face-offs. Dimpled tape gives you ultimate control when you need it most.
For added sensory feedback, Warrior Lacrosse’s Octo-Grip tape has 8 raised directional ridges running the length of the tape. This engineered surface channels water away while providing almost tactile response as you handle the ball. The feel of the ridges develops your cradling and shooting form.
Dabble with different textured tape options to discover your favorite for ideal traction and handling. Take your game to the next level by letting lacrosse tape do the work for you.
Keeping Your Lacrosse Stick Legal with NCAA Tape Rules
Using lacrosse tape improperly can make your stick illegal according to NCAA rules. Stay compliant and avoid costly penalties by following college lacrosse taping regulations on thickness, width, and placement.
NCAA stick specifications dictate tape cannot build up excessively on the shaft. Tape jobs may not exceed 1/2 inch thickness in circumference. Too much overlapping tape gives unfair ball control advantages. Referees will check tape thickness before games to ensure conformity.
Tape also cannot extend up onto the head of the lacrosse stick per NCAA guidelines. Having tape on the sidewalls or scoop affects ball retention unfairly. Any tape adhesive or residue above the shaft onto the head risks making your stick illegal.
When taping your stick, be mindful to not cover up the federally-required ASTM field test stamps imprinted on the shaft. Obscuring these marks with tape violates regulations. Position tape carefully to avoid this mistake.
With lacrosse programs getting penalized for using illegal sticks, players must be vigilant about NCAA taping rules. Learn proper technique and placement to get the most out of your tape job while maintaining a legal stick.
Minimal Lacrosse Tape for Maximum Stick Feel
While lacrosse tape provides crucial grip, some players opt for less tape to amplify stick feel and ball control. Limiting tape buildup lets you experience the natural flex and responsiveness of your shaft and head.
Start by taping just below the head instead of from the top of the shaft. This concentrates tape where you need grip most while leaving the lower handle free. Wrapping just the top half of your stick offers a good balance of feel and tackiness.
Using narrow 1/2 inch tape versus wider 3/4 inch tape also minimizes bulk. Less surface area to wrap equals less overall thickness. Some players even use pre-wrap instead of tape for the lightest grip possible.
Strategically placing small pieces of tape just at the choke points and shooting strings optimizes grip without smothering feel. Use longer pieces across the middle for protection from checks. Tailor tape just where it’s needed.
Test lighter tape jobs in practice first before going minimal in games. Find the right equilibrium of control versus sensitivity for your preferences. Let your hands relearn the nuances of your stick for even greater command on the field.
Cleat Tape vs. Lacrosse Tape – What’s the Difference?
Cleat tape and lacrosse tape may look similar but have important performance differences. Consider surface texture, padding, grip, and stretch when choosing between the two for your sport.
Cleat tape like SoftStretch has an ultra smooth exterior to prevent cleat clogging on turf. The minimal texture slides easily in and out of the surface. Lacrosse tape has more friction coating for handling sticks. So cleat tape won’t supply the same grip and control needed in lacrosse.
Lacrosse tape also contains more padding to protect sticks from checks. Cleat tape focuses solely on binding shoes without cushioning. Extra padding is crucial in lacrosse for durability during gameplay.
For taping shoes, SoftStretch allows for more stretch and flexibility to contour ankles tightly. Lacrosse tape is stiffer by design to add rigidity to shafts. The stretch in cleat tape makes it less responsive for lacrosse handles.
While the two look similar, cleat tape will compromise lacrosse performance. For the best results, use purpose-designed lacrosse tape on your stick. Then switch to flexible, low-friction cleat tape when taping your feet instead.
Custom Lacrosse Stick Tape Designs for Self-Expression
Customizing your lacrosse stick tape with unique designs is a great way to express your personality and individuality. Get creative with colors, patterns, textures, and graphics to make your tape job one-of-a-kind.
Weaving two alternating colors down the shaft in a spiral pattern creates cool visual contrast. Try combining team colors for an integrated look. Splatter painting different color tape strips across your stick results in an abstract art style.
Use extra pieces of tape to cut out and apply custom shapes. Place numbers, initials, names, or symbols important to you intermittently along the shaft length. Cut tape into strips, diamonds, stars, or triangles for geometric flair.
Incorporate textures like chrome foil, carbon fiber, and glitter tape for added visual appeal. Camouflage and flag patterned tape gives off rugged, patriotic vibes. Let your tape tell a story through creative designs.
A customized tape job makes your lacrosse stick an extension of your identity. Change up your tape look over time as you progress through the season. Visually set yourself apart on the field with unique tape that expresses who you are.
Prevent Debris Buildup on Lacrosse Tape
Debris buildup on lacrosse tape compromises grip and needs frequent removal. Use these tips to prevent excess dirt, grass, mud and residue for optimal performance:
Rewrap your stick with fresh tape after each game or significant practice to eliminate embedded debris. Mud, turf pellets, and grass quickly get ground into tape, so replacing it routinely avoids accumulation.
Carry extra rolls of tape in your gear bag to rewrap as needed after rain or excessive wear each session. Having backup tape on hand makes it easy to maintain a clean grip.
Use a stiff brush and towel to vigorously clean your shaft and head before applying new tape. Dislodge compacted debris and wipe away all dust and particles for the strongest bond.
Avoid touching your grip unnecessarily during games to reduce dirt and skin oil transfer. Adjust hand placement minimally to keep tape as clean as possible.
Storing your stick properly off the ground overnight prevents indirect debris buildup. Wall mounts, racks, and stick bags keep your tape cleaner for longer lasting play.
Creative Lacrosse Stick Tape Designs for Expression
Customizing your lacrosse stick tape with unique designs is a great way to express your personality and individuality. Get creative with colors, patterns, textures, and graphics to make your tape job one-of-a-kind.
Weaving two alternating colors down the shaft in a spiral pattern creates cool visual contrast. Try combining team colors for an integrated look. Splatter painting different color tape strips across your stick results in an abstract art style.
Use extra pieces of tape to cut out and apply custom shapes. Place numbers, initials, names, or symbols important to you intermittently along the shaft length. Cut tape into strips, diamonds, stars, or triangles for geometric flair.
Incorporate textures like chrome foil, carbon fiber, and glitter tape for added visual appeal. Camouflage and flag patterned tape gives off rugged, patriotic vibes. Let your tape tell a story through creative designs.
A customized tape job makes your lacrosse stick an extension of your identity. Change up your tape look over time as you progress through the season. Visually set yourself apart on the field with unique tape that expresses who you are.
Frequently Asked Lacrosse Tape Questions
Lacrosse tape is crucial for grip and control, but there are many common questions players have about properly using and caring for tape. Here are answers to some frequently asked lacrosse tape FAQs:
How often should you re-tape your stick? You should rewrap a fresh grip before each game or practice session for optimal traction. Tape loses adhesion over time and becomes contaminated with debris.
What direction should you wrap tape? Wrap from the top of the shaft towards the head for optimal grip directionality. Finish under the head for protection.
How tight should lacrosse tape be applied? Stretch tape slightly as you wrap for tackiness, but not so tight as to restrict flex or cushioning. Leave a hairline gap between wraps.
Can you improve grip by heating tape? Briefly heat newly applied tape with a lighter or heat gun to help activate the adhesive for better grip.
Answering common tape questions will help you maximize the performance of your lacrosse stick. Proper taping technique and care makes a big difference on the field.
Caring For Your Lacrosse Tape
Taking proper care of your lacrosse tape ensures optimal grip, feel, and performance all season long. Follow these best practices for getting the most out of your tape jobs:
Rewrap your stick with fresh new tape before each game or significant practice session. This prevents dirt, grass, and debris from becoming embedded and compromising adhesion.
Carry extra rolls of tape in your gear bag for quick rewrapping as needed after heavy use or moisture. Having backup tape makes it easy to maintain excellent grip.
Thoroughly clean your shaft before applying new tape by scrubbing off all old residue with a towel and stiff brush. This allows the new tape to bond tightly.
Avoid unnecessary handling or adjustment of your grip during games to minimize dirt transfer and oil from your hands.
Store your stick properly off the ground overnight to prevent indirect debris pickup on the tape. Wall mounts, racks, and stick bags keep it cleaner.
Take the time to tape carefully and meticulously for optimal results. Proper taping technique translates directly to improved performance on the field.