Last Updated on August 18, 2022
Many say that mountain bike handle grips aren’t essential. After all, you just hold them when riding, right? It is a small piece of rubber, but it plays a significant role in mountain biking!
Mountain bike grips are one of the primary contact points on your bike, along with your saddle and pedals. This is why you must use grips that match your riding style and preference. It even has a huge effect on your bike maneuvering!
This article will show you the best mountain bike grips to change from your current one. We will also discuss the pros and cons so you can choose the right one for you.
1. Ergon GE1 Evo Factory
Ergon is one of the industry’s most reputable mountain bike grip brands. And an excellent example of that is the Ergon GE1. They design this grip for the Enduro World Series, which is why it’s ideal for enduro and downhill rides. It’s developed for wide handlebars and has a shape that helps improve upper body support and arms control.
It also has an ergonomic shape which requires less gripping force on technical sections. They make this possible thanks to its slip-proof adhesion that aids maximum damping and control. You also need this to avoid hand pain and cramps on long descents.
It features an aluminum clamp that lets you adjust it to your fit. They also make the components from GravityControl rubber which makes it soft and translucent. It’s sourced from Germany and is TUV certified. It also has a 2-year warranty.
Pros
- Soft texture
- Grippy surface
- Aesthetic
Cons
- Lifespan
2. Renthal Ultra Tacky Lock-on
Renthal is another top brand in the mountain bike industry. They manufacture different mountain bike parts, including grips such as the Renthal Ultra Tacky Lock-on, one of the best mountain bike grips on the market.
This features their exclusive CNCs aluminum locking collars integrated with a central core. It provides all-weather security because it won’t rust and deteriorate. The integrated design also removes any movement between the collar and grips.
It comes with Renthal’s proprietary Ultra Tacky compound rubber. This soft rubber has a sticky surface coating that provides the utmost grip on downhill trails. It also improves control while reducing hand fatigue.
You also don’t have to worry if it loses its stickiness because you just have to wash it with soap and clean water. Then let it dry for a while, and it’ll return to its original stickiness.
You’ll find a diamond knurl pattern and a smooth profile on its end section. There are also snap-fit end caps for added security.
Pros
- Durable
- Excellent grip
- Provides stability
Cons
- Simple design
3. RaceFace Half Nelson
Then there’s Race Face with their Half Nelson grips, another contender to the best mountain bike grips you can get. This grip is for enduro and trail riding because of its ergonomic shape and overly sticky surface texture.
It is a single lock-on grip that matches its super-slim design. This makes it easy for you to hold the grip on long downhill trails. It also has a low-profile design that removes any complications you might have on the trails. It’s very light, and it weighs just 24 grams.
This grip features Race Face’s exclusive Vexy rubber compound known for its super-tacky texture. You’ll also find that it comes with an MX-style half-waffle design that adds grip and security. There are also topographic moisture channels for additional durability.
Pros
- Smooth
- Soft texture
Cons
- Bit slippery grip
4. ODI Vans
You might also want the ODI Vans grips. ODI creates stylish and durable mountain bike grips. But this one is a bit different because it’s a Vans crossover signature grip.
This means that the grip surface features Vans’ waffle sole you’ll find on their shoes. The sole is known for its comfortable grip. This is why ODI incorporated it into their grips.
This results in a very grippy surface. It also has ODI’s proprietary grip compound that gives additional control and a firm grip regardless of the terrain you’re riding on, thanks to its tapered core.
It has a lock-on grip system you can easily install, which goes smoothly with its ergonomic mtb grips design similar to bar ends grips. It is also slip-free and is tested to survive aggressive usage. These features make this one of the best mountain bike grips out there.
This grip measures 130 mm in length, which is just enough for enduro and trail riding. It comes with end plugs and clamps that give additional security, making this a smart choice for those looking for the best mtb grips.
Pros
- Good grip
- Aesthetics
- Stable
Cons
- Comfort on long rides
5. Ergon GA2
Another one of Ergon’s grips made it to the top list, thanks to its superior grip and traction. The Ergon GA2 is like the GE models but has thicker grips to give a more ergonomic grip. It’s designed for riders who have longer fingers and larger hands.
It does this while providing superior control and comfort on technical and high-speed sections. They make the soft rubber compound in Germany.
What sets this apart from other mtb grips is its tactile feel. It’s very comfortable on rough sections, making it ideal for those with arm pumps on rides.
It has an ergonomic shape that requires less gripping force. You’ll love this on long rides as well! They make this possible thanks to its specific zones that adapt to your hand contours. It’s designed with pressure distribution and feedback control in mind.
There’s also an aluminum clamp that lets you adjust the grip angle. And it’s got a limited 2-year warranty, making this one of the best grips on the market.
Pros
- Comfort
- Soft texture
Cons
- Not for sweaty hands
6. ODI Rogue
Then there’s the ODI Rogue. They design this mountain bike grip for trail riding thanks to its sleek and low-profile construction.
It comes in black color, which makes it easier to maintain it. You don’t have to worry about stains! It features huge pads slightly raised off its surface, similar to most slide-on grips.
This gives excellent shock absorption capabilities you need when hitting rough sections, making this fitting in the list of best mountain bike grips.
There are deep grooves lodged in between the mtb grips. This channels away dirt and makes your ride safer and more controllable. It includes ODI’s new snap cap end plugs. You need this if you’re looking for a low-maintenance and ultra-durable grip.
Pros
- Durability
- Provides excellent grip
Cons
- Rough texture
7. Wolftooth Fat Paw
You might have heard about Wolftooth when looking for dropper levers and chainrings. But unknown to many, they have already expanded to other mountain bike parts.
Introducing the Wolftooth Fat Paw, an intelligent choice if you’re looking for new mtb grips or the best grip in the market with super soft rubber.
This grip differs from the others in this list because it’s designed for comfort alone. This makes it ideal for riders who always have hand pains.
It features huge 9.5 mm diameter grips made from premium foam, a staple feature needed for the best mountain bike grips. This gives it a soft feel similar to most grips on carbon fiber handlebars with brake levers and a rubber mallet.
It easily conforms to your hands and comforts you on long rides. But you don’t have to worry about its durability because it’s enforced with premium rubber and a lock ring on its inner and outer edge. It has a semi-tacky texture that provides grip, even if you don’t wear gloves.
This is also one of the reasons why this is one of the most ergonomic grips for mountain bikes with bar ends.
These lock-on grips come with bar end plugs for added protection and stability. They make the material from a 100% dual-density silicone compound.
It is perfect for dampening vibration from mountain bikes and bar ends and conforms to your hand shape. It’s ideal for long cross-country rides. These can quickly become your favorite grips once you get a good feel.
Pros
- Soft surface
- Comfortable
Cons
- Lacks grip
- Not for aggressive usage
8. Lizard Skins Peaty
Lizard Skins develops some of the best mountain bike grips in the industry. One of which is the Lizard Skins Peaty signature mtb grips.
They design this alongside pro mountain bike legend Steve Peat. It easily slides onto your handlebar and is supported by its rings. This ensures security and stability even on the roughest of trails.
It has a patented lock-on design and a soft rubber grip engraving bearing the text Peaty. You don’t have to worry about unwanted movement because of the secured clamps.
It’s stylish, durable, and comfortable with any trail you ride, making this a no-brainer if you are looking for the best mountain bike grips.
It measures 130 mm and 30.5 mm in diameter. These lock-on grips are also light because it only weighs 112 grams.
Pros
- Aesthetics
- Grippy surface
Cons
- Price
9. ODI Troy Lee Designs
ODI has another grip up its sleeves. And it’s the ODI Troy Lee Designs signature grips. It features the iconic Troy Lee Designs text on its grip surface.
It has grooved channels that help prevent mud buildup. This lock on grips is also similar to other silicone foam grips as it helps remove any water residue that might have piled up after riding on muddy trails.
Molded flaps also give added security and protection to the outside clamping section. This matches the undercut pads that give a comfortable and slim feel without compromising grip, making this one of the best mountain bike grips to secure grip.
This grip also features a custom flanged design, a must-have for the best mountain bike grips. This gives additional hand support and a more usable surface grip. It’s a splendid choice if you want to look stylish mountain biking.
But it’s not only about style because it also is very durable. It’s made for aggressive riding, so you don’t have to worry about damaging the bar ends when crashing with the best mtb grips with a slide-on feature.
Pros
- Grippy surface
- Aesthetic design
Cons
- Durability
10. Race Face Grippler
The Grippler is another mountain bike grips choice from Race Face. It’s a grip designed for aggressive trail riding, thanks to its moisture-shedding compound.
It gives you maximum grip, making it safe on loose and tech sections. It also is very durable thanks to its hard-wearing design.
They make the compound from Race Face’s proprietary rubber grip material. This works great whether you ride with bare hands or with gloves. There is also a ramped grip profile on its sides that gives varied grip depth.
These are just some of the reasons why many mountain bikers consider this one of the best mountain bike grips with a locking collar, metal lock rings, and a thin grip diameter with a matching tacky grip pattern for an ideal mtb grip experience.
It’s available in 10 colors and two sizes. They make the material from premium silicone and have a width of 30 mm or 33 mm. These mtb grips weigh 108 grams to 136 grams, depending on size.
Pros
- Soft texture
- Grippy
Cons
- Comfort
Conclusion
It sounds easy to choose the best grips. But it’s really difficult because there are many choices out there.
But you can get rid of the confusion once you know their pros, cons, and features. Consider the size and shape of your lock on grips and where you’ll use them.
Focus on stability and stickiness if you’re a gravity rider. Meanwhile, you can prioritize comfort if you ride long cross-country trails. Choose wisely and you’ll surely have the best mountain bike grips.
Related:
How to Change Handlebar Grips on a Mountain Bike
