Waxing hockey skate laces is a straightforward process that significantly enhances their performance and durability by making them water repellent and improving their grip.
Why Wax Hockey Skate Laces?
Waxing laces is primarily done for two key reasons:
- Water Repellency: Wax creates a barrier that helps prevent the laces from absorbing moisture. This is crucial in ice hockey environments where laces are constantly exposed to water and ice, which can cause them to become heavy, stiff, and prone to freezing.
- Improved Grip and Tightness: Waxed laces offer superior grip, allowing them to stay tied tighter and prevent loosening during intense play. This provides a more consistent and secure fit for your skates, which can impact performance and comfort. For more on skate maintenance, check out resources like Hockey Gear HQ.
What You'll Need
Before you start, gather these simple items:
- Hockey Skate Laces: New un-waxed laces or existing laces you wish to re-wax.
- Lace Wax Stick: Specifically designed for skate laces, these are often paraffin-based.
Step-by-Step Guide to Waxing Your Hockey Skate Laces
Follow these steps to effectively wax your hockey skate laces:
- Prepare Your Laces: Lay your laces flat on a clean, dry surface. Ensure they are free from dirt or debris. If they are old laces, ensure they are dry.
- Apply Wax to One Side: Take your lace wax stick and firmly rub it along one side of the lace. Apply a consistent amount of pressure to ensure the wax penetrates the fibers. Start from one end and work your way to the other, going all the way to the top of the lace.
- Flip and Repeat: Once one side is thoroughly waxed, switch the lace around and repeat the process on the other side. Ensure both sides are covered evenly from end to end. You may need to do this a few times to get good coverage.
- Work the Wax In: After applying the wax, you can gently rub the lace between your fingers or palms. This helps to further work the wax into the lace fibers, ensuring an even coating and activating its water-repellent properties. You should feel the lace become slightly stiffer and tackier.
- Inspect and Reapply (If Needed): Check your laces for any dry spots. If you notice areas that haven't absorbed enough wax, simply reapply the wax stick to those sections and work it in again. The goal is for the lace to have a uniform, slightly tacky feel.
- Break-In Period: Once waxed, lace up your skates. The first few times you tie them, the wax may still be setting into the fibers. You'll quickly notice the improved hold and water resistance.
Benefits of Waxed Laces
Waxed laces offer several advantages for hockey players:
- Consistent Fit: They prevent loosening, maintaining a tight fit throughout a game or practice.
- Extended Lace Life: By repelling water, they are less prone to breaking down or fraying as quickly.
- Reduced Discomfort: Less moisture absorption means laces won't feel heavy or cold.
- Easier Tying: While initially stiffer, many players find them easier to tie securely.
By following these steps, you can ensure your hockey skate laces are perfectly waxed, providing you with a reliable and comfortable fit on the ice. For more tips on maintaining your hockey equipment, resources like Pure Hockey often provide useful guides.
