Ever feel your hands slipping when the trail gets rough? That shaky feeling can ruin a great ride. Your mountain bike grips are the main connection point between you and your machine. They matter more than you might think!
Choosing the perfect MTB grips feels like navigating a maze. Soft, hard, thick, thin—the choices overwhelm every rider. Bad grips lead to hand fatigue, blisters, and worst of all, less control when you need it most. Finding the right set can feel impossible when every brand promises the best feel.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down what really matters in MTB grips—from material science to the perfect diameter for your hand size. By the end, you will know exactly what features lead to maximum comfort and unwavering grip on any terrain.
Ready to ditch the hand cramps and upgrade your connection to the trail? Let’s explore the world of mountain bike grips and find your perfect match.
Top Mtb Grips Recommendations
- MATERIAL:Made of high quality non-slip-rubber for durability, with single aluminum alloy lock-on system
- ERGONOMIC DESIGNED:Ergonomic Designed Handlebar Grips, Extra gel layer for soft touch and comfort with antislip design.
- The high friction rubber provide enough grip in all-weather
- Durable aluminum alloy strengthening clamp lock, keeping the grips tight without any worries of loosing or falling down.
- SIZE: 131mm length, fits for the handle bar of more than 90% of bike with diameter of 0.87in(22.2mm), such as BMX, mountain, MTB, beach cruiser, scooter, folding, downhill, commuter bicycle etc.
- Diameter: Regular 30mm / XL 34mm, Weight: Regular 90g / XL 120g a pair, Width: 133.5mm
- Durometer: 25A Happy Camper Compound
- Clamp Style: Closed End, single clamp
- Lifetime Warranty
- Diameter: Regular 30mm / XL 34mm, Weight: Regular 90g / XL 120g a pair, Width: 133.5mm
- Durometer: 25A Happy Camper Compound
- Clamp Style: Closed End, single clamp
- Lifetime Warranty
- Soft Material:Rubber(TPR)/Aluminium Alloy.
- Length:130mm(5.12inches).
- Weight:3.88OZ(110g) per pair.
- Double Locking:Double lock on ring bike grips.
- Suitable:Suitable for Bicycle Handlebars with Outer Diameter between 20-22 mm, Will fit any standard mountain bike.
- Designed specifically for mountain bikes, the ESI Chunky MTB Grips provide superior control and comfort on your rides.
- Made with soft, durable silicone that absorbs shock and reduces hand fatigue during long rides.
- Features a larger diameter of 32mm and a length of 5-1/8" (130mm), at only 60g weight, providing a secure grip for any type of terrain.
- Easy to install with its slip-on design, no need for adhesives or clamps. Made to fit standard handlebars. Length can also be cut to customize the length according to your preference.
- Trusted by professional riders and tested in various conditions, these grips are perfect for both beginners and experienced mountain bikers.
- New unique in-house produced Factory rubber compound.
- Design to be used on the wide handlebars found on most gravity mtbs.
- Textured zones orientated against the direction of rotation of the hand.
- Lightweight high quality inboard aluminum clamp.
- Built-in handlebar plug.
- Soft Material:Rubber(TPR)/Aluminium Alloy.
- Length:130mm(5.12inches).
- Weight:3.88OZ(110g) per pair.
- Double Locking:Double lock on ring bike grips.
- Suitable:Suitable for Bicycle Handlebars with Outer Diameter between 20-22 mm, Will fit any standard mountain bike.
- Material: Rubber + Aluminium Alloy, Produc Length: 130 mm
- Comfortable durable grip handlebar grips
- Minimize fatigue in your hands, wrists, and elbows on long rides
- Package Contents :Bike Bicycle Handle Grips 1 set Wrench 1 PCS
- Suitable for Bike Handlebars with Outer Diameter between 20-23 mm, Will fit any standard mountain bike / electric vehicles / highway car / folding car
Choosing Your Perfect MTB Grips: A Buyer’s Guide
Your mountain bike grips are the direct link between you and your ride. Good grips mean better control and less hand fatigue. Choosing the right pair matters a lot for your comfort and safety on the trails. This guide helps you pick the best grips for your riding style.
Key Features to Look For
Grip Diameter and Shape
Grips come in different thicknesses. Smaller diameters suit riders with smaller hands. Larger diameters offer more cushioning. Think about the shape too. Some grips are straight cylinders. Others have a slight taper or ergonomic shape. Test a few if you can!
Lock-On vs. Slip-On
This is a big choice. Lock-on grips use clamps tightened by bolts. They stay put, no matter what. They offer fantastic security. Slip-on grips slide onto the handlebar. They are usually lighter and cheaper. However, they sometimes twist during hard riding.
Tread Pattern and Texture
The pattern on the grip affects how well you hold on. Knurled patterns offer a firm grip. Soft ribs absorb vibrations well. Look for a texture that feels good in your sweaty or wet hands. A good texture prevents your hands from slipping when you need control most.
Important Materials in MTB Grips
The material dictates the feel, weight, and durability of your grips.
- Rubber: This is the most common material. Soft rubber feels comfortable and sticky. It offers great vibration dampening. Harder rubber lasts longer but might feel slicker when wet.
- Silicone: Silicone grips are very light. They feel soft and cushiony. They resist slipping well, even when wet. They are generally less durable than rubber grips.
- Foam: Foam grips feel incredibly light and offer excellent shock absorption. They are popular for cross-country riding. They wear out faster than rubber.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Grip Great?
High-quality grips use durable compounds. They resist tearing from crashes. Excellent grips offer vibration damping. This reduces arm pump on rough descents. Good clamping mechanisms (for lock-ons) use strong aluminum that will not strip easily.
What Lowers Grip Quality?
Cheap plastic grips often lack stickiness. They wear out very quickly. Slip-on grips that use weak glue or no adhesive often slide around. If the material breaks down quickly in the sun, the quality is poor.
User Experience and Use Cases
Different riding styles need different grips.
Downhill (DH) and Enduro Riders
These riders need maximum security and comfort. They prefer thick, soft rubber grips with strong lock-on clamps. They prioritize vibration absorption for long, punishing descents.
Cross-Country (XC) Riders
XC riders look for light weight and good feel. They often choose thinner silicone or foam grips. Security is important, but weight saving is a major factor.
Trail Riders
Most trail riders need a balance. They want durability and good grip in all weather. A medium-thickness lock-on grip usually works best for general trail use.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About MTB Grips
Q: How often should I replace my MTB grips?
A: You should replace them when they feel slick, worn down, or start twisting on the bar. This is usually every 6 to 18 months, depending on how much you ride.
Q: Do lock-on grips hurt the handlebar?
A: No, they should not. The clamps only squeeze the grip material, not the aluminum handlebar directly, if installed correctly.
Q: What is “arm pump”?
A: Arm pump is when your forearms get tired and tight from gripping too hard. Good grips absorb trail chatter, which helps reduce arm pump.
Q: Are soft grips always better?
A: Not always. Soft grips feel nice initially, but they can wear out faster. Some riders prefer a firmer grip for better immediate feedback from the trail.
Q: Can I use hairspray to keep slip-on grips on?
A: Some mechanics use a small amount of alcohol or specialized adhesive for slip-ons. Hairspray is a temporary fix that can make them very sticky, but it often makes removal difficult later.
Q: Should I use gloves with my new grips?
A: Many riders use gloves for extra protection and better grip security. If you ride gloveless, prioritize grips with excellent tacky textures.
Q: How do I know the right grip diameter for my hands?
A: If your hands cramp up, the grip might be too small or too large. Generally, you should be able to wrap your fingers comfortably around the grip without your palm touching your thumb.
Q: Do grip colors fade in the sun?
A: Yes, cheaper rubber and silicone compounds can fade or become brittle when left exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
Q: What is the main difference between a lock-on and a slip-on grip?
A: Lock-ons use bolts to clamp down, ensuring they never move. Slip-ons slide on and rely on friction or adhesive to stay in place.
Q: Are foam grips good for wet weather?
A: Foam grips are generally excellent in the wet because they shed water quickly and maintain a good texture.