Black vs White Hockey Tape | Is One Better than the Other?

Most hockey players tape the blade of their sticks to protect it and to give them a better feel and control of the puck when receiving passes, shooting, and stickhandling, etc.

However, when it comes to which color hockey tape does a better job, it’s really just a personal preference as either will work just as well. In fact, when hockey players do prefer black over white tape or vice versa, the decision usually doesn’t concern the strength of the tape or the job it does. The decision is typically based on myth, superstition, or the player’s personal beliefs.

Is it a Myth? Does Black Tape Really Hide the Puck?

One of these myths or superstitions leads players to believe that black tape is better for shooters since it’s harder for goaltenders and defenders to distinguish between the puck and black tape, therefore making it harder to see the puck. On the other hand, many players believe netminders can easily see the puck if white tape is used on the blade since the black puck stands out more clearly against the background of white tape. Most goaltenders will shoot this belief down though as they admit the color of tape makes no difference to them when it comes to viewing and tracking the flight of the puck.

Is White Tape for Better Puck Handlers?

Staying with the same train of thought, some players believe the contrast in colors between the puck and white tape makes it easier to see the puck while stickhandling. There’s nothing wrong with believing this since the game of hockey and all other sports requires a great deal of confidence when competing. If you truly believe the color of tape on your blade makes a difference, by all means stick to your guns if it makes you feel better about your game and provides you with confidence. It’s important to give yourself as much of a mental edge as possible when playing.

What About Coloured Hockey Tape?

Black or white tape is the preference of most adult players, but youngsters often like to use other colors. They often like to use tape that matches the color of their uniform or simply use their favorite color. Adult and pro players will sometimes use colored tape on their sticks on special occasions such as pink tape for cancer awareness. But after trying it out I feel colored tape is more of a gimmick and it doesn’t grip the puck as well as black or white tape.

Does the Way I Tape my Stick Matter?

Black or white tape on your stick doesn’t really matter and neither does the way you tape your blade. Some players prefer to tape it from heel-to-toe and others prefer toe-to-heel. You can even tape it from either end and meet in the middle if you choose. The way you tape a hockey stick is also a personal preference and you should stick to taping it whatever way you’re comfortable with and what provides you with the results you’re looking for. The main thing is to apply the tape as smoothly as possible to make sure there aren’t any wrinkles in it.

It All Comes Down to Personal Preference

While it may be true that the occasional goaltender has difficulty seeing the puck due to black tape on the blade of a stick, it’s really just a personal preference for each player. But as mentioned, this preference is often based on what each individual player believes in. In reality, though, many players decide what color tape to use when they’re youngsters. They often choose the same color their hockey heroes use and stick with it throughout their careers.

On the other hand, a player may decide to try and kick start his or her luck by changing the color of tape if they’re in a slump or going through a rough patch. But again, this is typically based on superstition. The color of tape doesn’t make you a better or worse hockey player but it could affect you mentally if you truly believe it does. If that’s the case then by all means use the color of tape that makes you feel better about yourself.

Why do Some Players Apply Wax to their Hockey Tape?

Cloth tape is basically used to prolong the life of a hockey stick and to give you a better feel for the puck. This is because when the blade of a stick becomes wet it’s harder to handle the puck and tape will help keep your stick dry on the ice. You can also help preserve the tape by purchasing stick wax and applying a thin layer of it to the blade after it has been taped and to the bottom of the blade where it makes contact with the ice.

The wax is designed to provide watertight protection tom the tape and to help stop it from unravelling when it becomes wet or moist. Therefore, the tape is used to protect your stick and wax is used to protect the tape, which provides you with a dual layer of protection. In addition, the layer of wax acts as a cushion and provides the blade with a softer touch when handling the puck.

Does Black Tape Wear out your Hockey Gloves Faster?

Years ago, many players used black friction tape on the handles of their hockey sticks. This type of tape was commonly known as ‘Gordie Howe tape’ and it was quite sticky as both sides were adhesive. This meant the black color of the tape would often stick to the gloves and yes, their palms could wear out rather quickly. Most players of that era used white non-friction tape on the knobs of their sticks as a result. Black and white hockey tape is made exactly the same these days though and there’s nothing in either color which will cause your gloves to prematurely wear out.

The Verdict – What Tape Should I Use?

Since cloth hockey tape is constructed the same regardless if it’s black or white the choice is entirely up to you. Use whatever makes you happy and comfortable.

As far as black tape hiding the puck from goaltenders goes, just remember Wayne Gretzky used black tape and Alexander Ovechkin uses white tape. These are arguably the two greatest goalscorers the NHL has ever seen and they simply use whatever they believe gives them an edge. But to be honest, the color of hockey tape you use on your blade means about as much as the color of skate laces you wear.