How to Tape Hockey Shin Pads

Hockey shin guards serve to keep your skins from being bruised by the puck as well as from errant whacks from the sticks of opponents. The guards can also be used proactively to aid in shot blocking while playing defense. Most models feature straps that allow you to adjust them for to a custom fit; regardless, many players choose to tape their shin guards to prevent them from shifting during game action.

Things You'll Need

  • Roll of hockey tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sit on a bench or a chair with either leg in front of you, slightly bent at the knee. Make sure you’ve got your hockey pants on but not tied prior to strapping on the guards to allow you to comfortably bend at the waist.

    • 2

      Place each shin guard over the corresponding shin, with the knees firmly in the kneecap and the guard’s interior flush to your shins. Pull any straps to adjust the fit, but take care not to overtighten the straps; if you do, the shin guards will fit too snug once you stand in your skates.

    • 3

      Stand and check the fit of the guard on your shins and make any adjustments to the straps as needed. Sit back down and tie on your skates, allowing the bottom lip of the guards to rest in the top of the skates, just below the tongues.

    • 4

      Pull on your hockey socks (hose) over the skates and continue pulling them upward and over the shin guards. Start at the top of your legs and wrap each leg with one band of hockey tape, wrapping downward and stopping at the tops of the skate tongues.