Welcome to our guide on how to keep your hockey sticks in top shape by properly storing them. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, proper storage is key to ensuring your sticks stay in great condition for as long as possible. In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about storing hockey sticks so that they’re always ready to perform when you are.
While hockey sticks are built to withstand a lot of wear and tear, they’re not indestructible. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and UV light can all have a detrimental effect on the lifespan of your stick. That’s why it’s important to take the time to properly store your hockey sticks when they’re not in use. In this guide, we’ll explore some essential tips and tricks for keeping your sticks in top condition, so you can enjoy them for years to come.
Ready to get started? Whether you’re a professional player or just looking to get the most out of your sticks, our guide will provide you with everything you need to know about storing your hockey sticks. Read on to discover our top tips and tricks for keeping your sticks in top condition and ready to perform.
Table of Contents
Importance of Proper Hockey Stick Storage
As a hockey player, you understand the importance of investing in high-quality gear to perform at your best on the ice. But have you considered how properly storing your hockey sticks can impact their lifespan and performance?
Leaving your hockey sticks in improper storage conditions can cause them to warp, crack, or even break. A damaged hockey stick can negatively affect your game and may require costly repairs or replacements. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the importance of proper hockey stick storage.
By following a few simple storage tips, you can ensure that your hockey sticks remain in top shape for years to come. In the next sections, we’ll discuss how to choose the best location for storing your sticks, tips for preparing them for storage, essential equipment to use, and common mistakes to avoid.
Protecting Your Investment: Why Proper Storage Matters
As a hockey player, your stick is one of your most valuable tools. It’s important to take care of your investment and store your stick properly to extend its lifespan. Here are some reasons why proper storage matters:
- Prevents Warping: Leaving your stick lying around can cause warping, which can affect your shot accuracy and power. Proper storage helps prevent this.
- Keeps Blade Edge Sharp: Storing your stick upright and protecting the blade edge with a cover or tape helps keep the edge sharp and in good condition.
- Protects Stick Graphics: Many hockey sticks have graphics on them, which can become damaged if the stick is stored improperly. Protecting your stick with a cover or storing it in a designated area can prevent damage.
- Ensures Consistency: Storing your stick in a consistent location and manner can help you develop muscle memory and improve your overall game.
Proper storage of your hockey stick is essential for maintaining its quality and prolonging its lifespan. By following these tips, you can protect your investment and keep your stick in top shape for a long time to come.
Choosing the Best Location for Storing Hockey Sticks
When it comes to storing your hockey sticks, the location you choose can have a big impact on their longevity. The right location will not only protect them from damage but also ensure that they are easily accessible when you need them. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing the best location for storing your hockey sticks:
Temperature: The ideal temperature for storing hockey sticks is between 40-60°F. This range helps to prevent warping and cracking, which can occur when sticks are exposed to extreme temperatures.
Humidity: Moisture can be detrimental to the longevity of hockey sticks, as it can lead to rotting and warping. Choose a location that is dry and well-ventilated to prevent moisture from accumulating.
Protection from sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause the color of your sticks to fade and weaken the material. Storing your sticks in a dark or shaded location will help to prevent this type of damage.
Accessibility: It’s important to choose a location that is easily accessible so you can quickly grab your sticks when you need them. A convenient location will also make it easier to put your sticks away after a game or practice.
Choosing the right location for storing your hockey sticks can help to ensure their longevity and keep them in top shape for your next game or practice. Take the time to find the best spot in your home or garage, and your sticks will be ready to go whenever you are.
Factors to Consider: Humidity, Temperature, and Light
Humidity: When it comes to storing hockey sticks, humidity is a key factor to consider. High humidity can cause the wooden stick to absorb moisture and warp, while low humidity can cause it to dry out and become brittle. The ideal humidity level for storing hockey sticks is between 40% and 50%.
Temperature: The temperature of the storage area is also important. Extreme temperatures can cause the stick to warp, crack or split. Storing the sticks at room temperature is ideal, but if this is not possible, try to maintain a temperature between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Light: Exposure to direct sunlight or artificial light can cause the color of the stick to fade and can also weaken the stick. It’s best to store your hockey sticks in a dark place or cover them with a cloth to protect them from light exposure.
By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that your hockey sticks are stored in the best possible conditions to keep them in top shape.
Tips for Preparing Hockey Sticks for Storage
Clean and dry your hockey sticks: Before storing your hockey sticks, make sure they are clean and dry to prevent any damage or warping. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the sticks and remove any dirt or debris. Allow them to air dry completely before storing them away.
Remove any accessories: Any accessories such as grips, tape, or pucks should be removed before storing your hockey sticks. These can cause damage or leave residue that can be difficult to remove. Store these accessories separately in a cool and dry place.
Use a hockey stick bag: To protect your sticks during storage, use a hockey stick bag. These bags are designed to fit multiple sticks and will protect them from dust, dirt, and other potential damage. Make sure the bag is completely closed and secure to prevent any air or moisture from entering.
Store your sticks vertically: Storing your hockey sticks vertically will help prevent warping and damage to the blades. Use a stick rack or wall mount to keep your sticks organized and upright. Avoid storing them in a horizontal position, as this can cause unnecessary pressure on the blades and lead to warping.
Cleaning, Drying, and Applying Wax
Before storing your hockey sticks, it’s important to clean them thoroughly. Use a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the blades and shafts. Next, dry them with a clean towel to prevent any moisture from causing damage.
Once your sticks are clean and dry, apply a thin layer of wax to the blade and tape of the stick. This will protect the stick from moisture and help prevent the tape from unraveling.
It’s also a good idea to inspect your sticks for any damage before storing them. Check for any cracks or chips in the blade or shaft, and replace any damaged sticks before storing them.
By taking these steps to clean, dry, and wax your sticks before storage, you’ll help ensure they’re in top condition when you’re ready to use them again.
Essential Equipment for Storing Hockey Sticks
Proper storage equipment can help prolong the life of your hockey sticks. Here are four essential items you’ll need:
Racks: A good quality stick rack will keep your sticks organized and off the ground, which is important for preventing warping or other damage.
Covers: Stick covers, particularly those made of fabric, are useful for protecting your sticks from scratches or other surface damage. They also keep dust and other debris from accumulating on your sticks.
Humidifiers: In areas with low humidity, a humidifier can help prevent your sticks from drying out and becoming brittle. This is particularly important for wooden sticks.
Dehumidifiers: On the other hand, if your storage area is prone to excess moisture, a dehumidifier can help prevent warping and other damage to your sticks.
Hockey Stick Rack or Holder
Investing in a high-quality hockey stick rack or holder is the best way to keep your sticks organized and protected from damage. These racks come in various sizes and materials, including plastic and metal. Choose one that can accommodate the number of sticks you have and fits the space you have available.
If you prefer a DIY solution, you can make a hockey stick rack using PVC pipes or wooden dowels. Just be sure to measure your sticks and ensure the rack is the appropriate height and width.
Another option is a wall-mounted hockey stick holder, which can save valuable floor space. These holders can be installed on any wall and come in different styles, including single or multiple stick holders.
Hockey Stick Bag
Protection: A good quality hockey stick bag can protect your hockey sticks from damage and keep them secure. Most bags have padding and straps that keep the sticks in place and prevent them from rubbing against each other during transportation.
Convenience: A hockey stick bag makes it easy to transport your sticks to and from the rink. Most bags have shoulder straps or backpack-style straps that allow you to carry your sticks hands-free.
Organization: A hockey stick bag is a great way to keep your sticks organized. Many bags have multiple compartments for storing other gear like gloves, shin guards, and elbow pads, so you can keep everything in one place.
Style: Hockey stick bags come in a variety of styles and colors, so you can choose one that suits your personality and preferences. Some bags even have customizable options to add your name or team logo.
Hockey Stick Tape
Protection: Hockey stick tape is an essential item for protecting the blade of your stick. The tape helps to prevent damage from pucks, sticks, and other equipment during games and practices.
Grip: Proper grip is important for controlling the puck and stickhandling. Adding tape to the blade and handle of your stick can provide a better grip and enhance your performance on the ice.
Customization: Hockey stick tape comes in a variety of colors and designs, allowing you to customize the look of your stick. You can choose from traditional black or white tape or opt for a more unique design to make your stick stand out on the ice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Hockey Sticks
Not cleaning the sticks: One of the most common mistakes is storing dirty or wet hockey sticks. It can lead to mold, mildew, and even rotting of the stick’s wood or blade. Therefore, it is crucial to clean and dry the sticks thoroughly before storing them.
Storing sticks in extreme temperatures: Hockey sticks can be affected by extreme temperatures, which can cause the wood to expand, contract or even crack. Therefore, avoid storing them in areas that are too hot or too cold.
Overcrowding the storage space: When storing your hockey sticks, avoid overcrowding the storage space. Overcrowding can lead to scratches and damages, and it can also make it challenging to access your sticks quickly when you need them.
Not checking the sticks regularly: It is important to check your sticks regularly when in storage. Check for any damages, cracks, or warping, as these issues can affect the stick’s performance on the ice.
Don’t Store Hockey Sticks Near Heat Sources
When storing your hockey sticks, it’s essential to keep them away from heat sources such as radiators, fireplaces, and direct sunlight. Exposure to heat can cause the stick to warp, bend or crack, which can have a significant impact on its performance on the ice.
If you’re storing your sticks indoors, make sure to keep them in a cool and dry location, away from any sources of heat. If you’re storing them in a garage or shed, make sure that the storage area is well-ventilated and that the sticks are not exposed to direct sunlight.
Remember, keeping your hockey sticks away from heat sources is essential for maintaining their quality and longevity. By following this simple rule, you can ensure that your sticks are always in top condition and ready for use whenever you need them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to store hockey sticks properly?
Storing hockey sticks properly helps maintain their shape and prolongs their lifespan. Proper storage also prevents damage from occurring, such as warping or cracking, which can negatively impact your performance on the ice.
What are some essential tools needed for storing hockey sticks?
Some essential tools needed for storing hockey sticks include a hockey stick rack or holder, a hockey stick bag, hockey stick tape, and a damp cloth for cleaning the sticks before storage.
How should you clean and dry hockey sticks before storing them?
First, wipe the hockey sticks down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Then, dry them completely with a dry cloth or towel. Applying a coat of wax can help protect the sticks from moisture during storage.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when storing hockey sticks?
Common mistakes to avoid include storing sticks near heat sources, leaving them in direct sunlight for extended periods, and not properly cleaning or drying them before storage. It’s also important to make sure the sticks are not stacked on top of each other or leaning against anything that could cause them to bend or warp.
Can hockey sticks be stored upright?
Yes, hockey sticks can be stored upright in a hockey stick rack or holder. This helps maintain their shape and prevents any warping or bending that may occur if they are stored horizontally.
How often should hockey sticks be checked for damage during storage?
Hockey sticks should be checked for damage at least once a month during storage. Look for any signs of warping, cracking, or other damage that could affect their performance on the ice. If any damage is found, address it immediately to prevent further damage and prolong the lifespan of the stick.