PRO'S CORNER: DANGLES FOR DAYS
Two weeks ago, we talked about tape. This week, let’s take a look at stick wax!
Waxing of sticks became popular as friction tape waned in popularity. Players wanted the same tacky feel and puck control enhancement they received from friction tape but without the mess and expense. In the early days, stick wax was made from what was readily available – beeswax or paraffin. Now, wax comes in a variety of types for all styles of play and scents to cover up the hockey bag funk.
HARD WAX
Most hard stick waxes are still a paraffin wax base or pure paraffin wax like a common candle. This is a synthetic wax with great hydrophobic (water repelling) properties. If you’re a player that values longevity in your tape but can do with or without an sense of extra grip, this is the type of wax for you. It’s a no frills wax good for most players.
MEDIUM WAX
Medium stick waxes are typically blends of soft and hard wax, and sometimes emulsifiers, to get a balance between a supple tackiness and hydrophobic qualities. The wax will be softer than a hard wax or candle, but not as soft as “soft” stick wax. There is usually a noticeable difference in puck control and shooting, without sacrificing longevity of tape. This wax is similar to waxes used in recreational cross country skiing or a warm-water surf wax.
SOFT WAX
Soft stick wax is usually made up of blends of soft waxes like soy and emulsifiers to create a soft wax that smooths easily over the blade and provides an almost sticky layer for the puck to lock into. It is similar in nature to high friction cross country ski wax or high-tack surf wax. Most players that love to dangle will prefer a softer wax as the puck will generate more friction and create more reliable feel on the blade. The down side to softer wax is it can absorb into the tape more easily and result in faster wear of stick tape and it can rub off the tape faster. This wax is recommended for those that like a fresh stick tape more often and love a soft feel on their blade.
PAD WAX
Wax isn’t just for sticks anymore! Goalies now have a new ally in combating worn out sliding surfaces of leg pads and helping to ease movement with poor pad rotation. Binnie’s is now proud to carry Filthy Mitts Co. Landing Gear Lube. A scientifically researched blend of waxes and all natural emulsifying oil that helps to seal micro abrasions and condition pad surfaces to restore the “landing gear” of your leg pads. It’s easy to use and, unlike other brands, can be used on all types of pad material.