Hockey Skates: Sharpening and Care
Skates are arguably the most crucial piece of equipment for any hockey player. Proper maintenance extends their lifespan and ensures peak performance during games.
Sharpening: Finding the Perfect Edge
Frequency of Sharpening: The rule of thumb for sharpening is after every 6-10 hours of ice time, but this can vary based on personal preference and playing style. Players who prefer a sharper edge for tighter turns might sharpen their skates more frequently, while those favoring a duller edge for smoother glides might do so less often.
Hollow Radius: The hollow radius refers to the curve ground into the blade's bottom. A deeper hollow offers more grip on the ice, suitable for players needing agility and tight turns. A shallower hollow provides less resistance, ideal for speed. Discussing your playing style with a professional sharpener can help you find the perfect balance.
Skate Care: Beyond Sharpening
Drying: After each use, thoroughly dry the blades with a towel. Moisture is the main enemy of skate blades, leading to rust and corrosion. Ensure you also dry the rivets and the underside of the blade holder to prevent rust.
Protective Covers: Always use skate guards when walking off-ice to protect the blades from nicks and dulling. But don't store your skates with the guards on! Trapped moisture can accelerate rusting.
Rust Prevention: Applying a light coat of oil or a specific blade protector product can help prevent rust. Ensure the product is suitable for use on skate blades.
Air Skates Out: After playing, loosen the laces and pull the tongue out to air the boots. This prevents moisture buildup, which can break down the boot materials over time.
Cleaning: Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth to remove dirt and salt residue, which can degrade the boot material. For leather boots, consider using a leather conditioner to keep the material supple and prevent cracking.
Insole Care: Remove the insoles to air them out separately. This helps dry the inside of the boots more effectively and prevents unpleasant odors.
Professional Maintenance: When to see an expert
While most skate maintenance can be done in the locker room and at home, certain aspects, like blade alignment and boot structure issues, should be handled by pros. Regular check-ups at the pro shop can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
Hockey Sticks: Keep Them Game-Ready
Your hockey stick is your primary tool on the ice, an extension of your body controlling the puck and executing plays. Proper maintenance ensures your stick performs reliably game after game. Here’s how to keep your hockey sticks in top shape.
Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your stick for any signs of damage, such as cracks, splinters, or delamination. For composite sticks, look closely at the blade and the shaft for any signs of wear or structural damage.
Repairing Minor Damage: Use sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots or small splinters on wooden sticks. For composite sticks, clear hockey tape can be used to reinforce areas showing minor wear or to cover small nicks that don't affect the stick's structural integrity.
Hockey Tape For Sticks
Blade Taping: Taping your blade not only protects it from damage but also helps control the puck better. Replace the tape when it becomes frayed or waterlogged. Before re-taping, remove the old tape and clean any adhesive residue off the blade to ensure the new tape adheres well.
Handle and Grip Taping: The top of the stick should be taped to provide a comfortable, firm grip. Personal preference dictates the type of tape and the method of application. Some players prefer a thicker grip, while others opt for a minimal feel. Replace the grip tape as it wears to maintain optimal control and comfort.
Enhancing Stick Performance
Choosing the Right Tape: Experiment with different types of tape to find one that offers the best feel and puck control for your playing style. Some players prefer a grip tape for the handle for better stickhandling, while others might opt for a non-grip tape for quicker hand movements.
Stick Wax: Applying wax to the taped blade can help repel water and ice, keeping your tape in better condition during the game and providing a more consistent puck feel. Wax can also slightly increase the durability of the tape.
Blade Protection and Storage
Use Blade Protectors: When transporting your stick or storing it, use blade protectors to prevent the edges from chipping. This is especially important for composite sticks, which can be more susceptible to edge damage.
Proper Storage: Avoid leaving your stick in extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can weaken the materials. Store your stick in a cool, dry place where it is not under any stress that could cause it to bend or warp.
Helmet: Safety First
Inspection: Before and after games, inspect your helmet for cracks or any signs of wear. Pay special attention to the screws and clips that hold the cage in place.
Cleaning: Use mild soap and water to clean the shell. Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the plastic. The padding inside can be gently wiped down. Let it air dry completely before using it again.
Protective Gear: Pads and Gloves
Cleaning: Most pads and gloves can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. However, check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Air dry thoroughly.
Storage: Store your gear in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving equipment in your bag or in damp areas, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew.
Gear Bag: Don't Overlook It
Maintenance: Empty and air out your gear bag regularly. Wipe it down with a disinfectant spray to keep it smelling fresh and to kill any lingering bacteria.
Additional Tips
Invest in a Gear Dryer: A gear drying rack is a great investment for airing out your equipment properly.
Odor Control: Consider using odor control sprays or placing moisture-absorbing sachets in your gear bag.
Regular Inventory: Periodically take stock of your gear. This not only helps in maintaining it but also in knowing when it’s time to replace items before they fail during play.
