Taping the lacrosse stick correctly can improve the game of the players. However, it’s more complex because taping too much can make the stick heavy, while a thin layer wears out too soon. Therefore, how to tape a lacrosse stick has been a mantra of so many young players.
Some players do a full wrap, while others opt for a smaller section. Yet, finding a balanced and consistent taping style is key for better grip and muscle memory. I prefer taping my lacrosse stick in a spiral so that both hands fit perfectly on the stick.
I am going to tell you how to tape a lacrosse stick spirally with some tips and tricks to keep your taping consistent.
Overview Of The Guide To Taping A Lacrosse Stick
- Remove the previous tape and clean the residue
- How to tape A lacrosse stick in a spiral motion
- Importance of taping a lacrosse stick
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Removing The Old Tape
Removing the old tape is the messiest part of the tape job. I hated changing the tape of my lacrosse stick because it kept sticking everywhere until I found a way.
Don’t worry! I won’t keep it secret.
So, here’s how I remove the old tape to keep the tape from sticking to everything and make the clean-up quick and simple.
- Take an ice cream stick or any stick about one-and-a-half-inch long.
- Pull one end of the tape from your lacrosse shaft and stick it to the wooden stick.
- Begin rolling the ice cream stick. It will peel off the tape from the shaft and wrap it around the ice cream stick to throw it away.
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Cleaning The Residue
Removing the old tape leaves a sticky feel to your lacrosse stick. So, the next step in the how-to-tape lacrosse stick guide is to remove that sticky residue.
Mix some liquid detergent or hand soap in water and vinegar, and clean the stick. Then cleanse it with lukewarm water, and pat dry it.
Although it works fine, I usually use Goo Goo glue and tape adhesive remover to make my work easier.
Prepare and Collect The Materials
Before moving on to learn how to tape a lacrosse stick, make sure you have the following items to do the job:
- A lacrosse Tape (At least 1-inch wide)
- A pair of scissors
- An electrical Tape
Securing The Butt End
The first step is to secure your butt end onto the shaft by overlapping the tape and making two or three complete rolls. Initially, you will see a few wrinkles, but that’s okay.
Next, angle the tape slightly downward and keep consistent tension as you wrap it. It will smooth out any wrinkles. Yet, don’t overpull the tape, as it will reduce the strength.
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Creating A Perfect Spiral up to 8-10 Inches
As you continue wrapping, you’ll see the tape is starting to flatten out. So, keep the tape tight and maintain tension, creating a pattern of an overlap section followed by a flat section. Ensure that the overlapping sections should be the same width down the shaft.
- Thinner Overlap: Lighter but more prone to wear and tear.
- Thicker Overlap: Heavier but more durable.
I keep the overlapping section about one-third of the inch. It results in a textured surface perfect for finger placement. To achieve you will have to follow the three-step process.
- Pull the tape tight at about 45 degrees.
- Twist the shaft about half a turn.
- Line up the overlap.
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Securing the End
Finish by wrapping the tape around the shaft without spiraling for one or two wraps to create a slightly thicker grip area. Now, cut the tape and press down the edge to secure it. It’s the point where most people leave the tape as it is. However, it wears off easily and irritates during the game.
That’s why I use the electrical tape to secure the end. It’s sticky, stretchy, weatherproof, and more durable than athletic tape. Here is what you have to do.
- Wrap the electrical tape half on the tape end and half on the shaft, stretching it tight.
- Do two full rotations and secure it nicely.
Best Athletic Tapes For Lacrosse Sticks
Initially, North Americans used rawhide or leather strips to wrap their sticks. As lacrosse grew famous, players started using athletic tape for a better grip. Nowadays, there are special lacrosse grip tapes available. So, you can easily get a lacrosse tape from the nearest sports shop.
So, here is the list of tried and tested athletic tapes I usually use and recommend.
Trainers Athletic Tape / Lacrosse Grip Tape
| Tape Type | Self-Cut |
| Dimensions | 1.25 inches width, 15 yards length |
| Number of Rolls | 1 |
Trainers athletic tape is made up of durable poly cotton zinc oxide material. I use it because it has a strong adhesion. So it doesn’t wear off soon.
Lizard Skins DSP V2 Lacrosse Stick Shaft Grip Tape
| Tape Type | Pre-Cut ends |
| Dimensions | 1.0 yards length 0.5 mm thickness |
| Number of Rolls | 1 roll + 1 roll finishing tape |
It’s a textured slip-resistant tape with effective adhesion. So, it’s one of the long-lasting athlete tapes to add grip to your lacrosse shaft.
String King Pre-Cut Lacrosse Shaft Grip Tape
| Tape Type | Pre-Cut |
| Dimensions | 1.1 inch width, 10.9 yards length |
| Number of Rolls | 2 rolls (White and Black) |
Stringking pre-cut tape has a rough texture but protects your palm from blisters after a rough game. It also sticks nicely on the shaft and leaves a very minimal residue.
VukGripz Lacrosse Stick Shaft Grip Tape
| Tape Type | Self-Cut |
| Dimensions | 0.5 mm thick |
| Number of Rolls | 1 |
Vukgripz is a thick lacrosse tape with optimal strength for those who like denser taping. Although thicker, it doesn’t make the lacrosse shaft heavy and has balanced tension.
Lizard Skins CAMO DSP V2 Lacrosse Stick Shaft Grip Tape
| Tape Type | Pre-Cut |
| Dimensions | 1.0 yards length 0.5 mm thickness |
| Number of Rolls | 1 roll + 1 roll finishing tape |
Lizard Skins is also offering a camo printed tape for those who want to add a funky touch to their lacrosse shafts. It’s dense and has perfect sticking for a long-lasting stay. Besides, the slip-resistant material keeps your grip strong.
SportStop Hockey-Style USA FLAG Lacrosse Grip Tape
| Tape Type | Self-Cut |
| Dimensions | 1.18 inches width (additional 0.4-inch tape layer)20 yards length |
| Number of Rolls | 1 |
This one is patterned cloth tape to add protection to your lacrosse stick. The textured anti-slip surface of SportStop grip tape provides a secure grip and improves stick handling.
Importance Of Taping A Lacrosse Stick:
Taping a lacrosse stick is not just a tradition. It’s beneficial for better playing conditions. So, let’s move on to learn the benefits of learning how to tape a lacrosse stick.
| Benefit | Description |
| Grip | Tape provides a secure grip. So, it prevents the stick from slipping out of hands. |
| Control | It helps players control the stick, especially in wet or cold conditions. |
| Protection | It protects the player's hands from the impact of direct stick checks. |
| Consistency | You get a consistent feel and grip to develop muscle memory and improve your skills. |
People Also Ask
What is the Best Way to Tape a Lacrosse Stick?
The best way to tape a lacrosse stick is to use a spiral wrap, ensuring both hands fit perfectly on the stick, with a consistent overlap of one-third of an inch for better grip and muscle memory.
What are the Rules for Lacrosse Grip Tape?
Lacrosse grip tape should be securely wrapped around the stick, with the butt end properly secured and the tape not excessively thick to avoid adding unnecessary weight.
Do Girls Tape Their Lacrosse Sticks?
Yes, girls tape their lacrosse sticks to enhance grip, control, and protection, just like male players, following similar taping techniques.
Can Hockey Tape Be Used for Lacrosse?
Yes, hockey tape can be used for lacrosse as it provides a good grip and durability, though specialized lacrosse grip tape is often recommended for optimal performance.
How Do You Remove Old Tape from a Lacrosse Stick?
To remove the old tape from a lacrosse stick, use an ice cream stick to roll the tape off the shaft, and clean the residue with a mixture of water, vinegar, and detergent or a tape adhesive remover.
Well, that’s it. Now you know how to tape a lacrosse it. So, try it on to improve your stick handling, grip, and control. Just tape your stick the right way and keep your lacrosse stick secure.
