Best Aftermarket Grips for Upgrading Walking Poles? A Complete Guide to Enhanced Comfort

Your walking poles are faithful companions on countless adventures, but over time, even the best grips can wear out or simply not meet your evolving needs. Perhaps the original grips are too hard, too slippery, or just not comfortable for long days on the trail. The good news is that you don't need to buy new poles—aftermarket grips offer an affordable, effective way to upgrade your existing poles. This comprehensive guide explores the best aftermarket grip options, how to choose the right ones, and step-by-step installation instructions.

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Why Upgrade Your Grips?

Comfort: The most obvious reason. Better grips reduce hand fatigue and prevent blisters.

Material Preference: Switch to cork for sweat management, foam for cushioning, or rubber for durability.

Size: Find grips that better fit your hand size.

Rejuvenation: Breathe new life into old poles with worn grips.

Customization: Match grips to your personal style or needs.

Types of Aftermarket Grips

Wrap-Around Grips

These install over your existing grips, adding a new layer of material:

• Cork Wraps: Thin cork sheets that wrap and adhere to existing grips
• Foam Tube Grips: Slip-on foam tubes that compress over old grips
• Bike Grip-Style: Similar to bicycle grips, they slide over and lock in place

Pros: Easy installation, no removal of old grips, reversible
Cons: May increase grip diameter slightly, less permanent

Replacement Grips

These completely replace your existing grips:

• Cork Replacement Grips: Full cork grips for maximum comfort
• Foam Replacement Grips: Lightweight, cushioned options
• Ergonomic Grips: Shaped to fit hand contours
• Rubber Grips: Durable, all-weather options

Pros: Professional finish, optimal performance, permanent upgrade
Cons: Requires removing old grips, more involved installation

Grip Tape and Wraps

Thin, adhesive-backed materials that wrap around grips:

• Hockey Tape: Classic spiral wrap for improved grip
• Tennis Racket Overgrip: Sweat-absorbing, cushioned
• Self-Adhesive Silicone Tape: Stretchy, grippy, reusable

Pros: Ultra-easy, inexpensive, customizable
Cons: Less durable, may need frequent replacement

Top Aftermarket Grip Recommendations

Best Cork Wrap: PaceOn CorkWrap

PaceOn CorkWrap is widely considered the gold standard for cork upgrades:

• Material: Natural cork sheet with adhesive backing
• Thickness: 1.5mm, adds minimal bulk
• Length: 30cm roll covers both grips
• Features: Sweat-absorbing, comfortable, classic look
• Installation: Wrap spirally around existing grip, trim excess

Pros: Transforms any pole into cork-gripped luxury; excellent sweat management; affordable
Cons: Requires careful wrapping for best results; not as durable as solid cork
Best for: Hikers wanting cork comfort without replacing grips

Best Replacement Cork: Komperdell Cork Replacement Grips

For those willing to remove old grips, Komperdell offers premium cork replacements:

• Material: High-density natural cork
• Compatibility: Fits most standard pole diameters (check size)
• Features: Ergonomic shape, sweat-absorbing, comfortable
• Installation: Requires grip removal and adhesive

Pros: Professional quality; authentic cork feel; durable
Cons: Installation more involved; permanent modification
Best for: Serious hikers wanting permanent cork upgrade

Best Foam Upgrade: Grab-On Grips

Grab-On is renowned for foam grips across various sports:

• Material: Closed-cell foam, cushioned and lightweight
• Options: Various diameters and lengths
• Features: Vibration-damping, comfortable, warm in cold
• Installation: Slip-on with adhesive or friction fit

Pros: Excellent cushioning; reduces hand fatigue; good for arthritic hands
Cons: Foam can absorb water; less durable than cork
Best for: Hikers prioritizing cushioning and vibration damping

Best Ergonomic Upgrade: LEKI Aergon Replacement Grips

LEKI's Aergon grips are among the most comfortable available:

• Material: Composite with ergonomic shaping
• Compatibility: Designed for LEKI poles but may fit others with adapter
• Features: Anatomical shape reduces pressure points; multiple size options
• Installation: Professional installation recommended

Pros: Superior ergonomics; reduces hand fatigue; multiple sizes
Cons: Expensive; LEKI-specific attachment may require adapter
Best for: Hikers with hand pain or specific ergonomic needs

Best Budget Wrap: Lizard Skins DSP Grip Wrap

Originally designed for bicycles, these wraps work beautifully on poles:

• Material: Durable, tacky synthetic with peel-and-stick backing
• Thickness: Various options (1.8mm, 2.5mm)
• Features: Excellent grip wet or dry; vibration damping; durable
• Installation: Spiral wrap around existing grip

Pros: Excellent wet-weather grip; durable; comfortable
Cons: Adds slight bulk; limited color options
Best for: Hikers in wet climates wanting superior traction

Best All-Weather: REI Co-op Replacement Rubber Grips

Simple, durable rubber grips for all conditions:

• Material: Durable rubber compound
• Compatibility: Fits standard pole diameters
• Features: Non-slip even when wet; durable; affordable
• Installation: Slip-on with adhesive

Pros: Excellent wet grip; virtually indestructible; budget-friendly
Cons: Can be cold in winter; less cushioned than foam
Best for: All-weather hikers, durability seekers

Best Minimalist: Newbaum's Cloth Sports Tape

Sometimes the simplest solution is the best:

• Material: Cotton cloth tape with adhesive
• Features: Breathable, sweat-absorbing, comfortable
• Installation: Spiral wrap around existing grip
• Cost: Pennies per application

Pros: Ultra-cheap; easily replaced; customizable
Cons: Less durable; needs frequent replacement
Best for: Quick fixes, trying different feels, budget hikers

How to Choose the Right Grips

Consider Your Needs:

Check Compatibility:

• Grip Diameter: Measure your current grip or pole shaft diameter
• Attachment Method: Ensure chosen grips match your pole's attachment system
• Length: Grips come in various lengths; match to your preference

Consider Installation Skill Level:

• Beginner: Wrap-around grips or tape
• Intermediate: Slip-on foam grips with adhesive
• Advanced: Full grip replacement requiring removal

Installation Guides

For Wrap-Around Grips (PaceOn CorkWrap)

1. Clean existing grips thoroughly with alcohol
2. Start at grip base, wrap spirally with 50% overlap
3. Maintain even tension as you wrap
4. Cut excess at top, tuck end neatly
5. Warm with hair dryer to activate adhesive
6. Squeeze firmly to ensure adhesion

For Slip-On Foam Grips (Grab-On)

1. Remove old grips if present (see below)
2. Clean shaft thoroughly
3. Apply adhesive (often included) to shaft
4. Slide grip on quickly with twisting motion
5. Hold in place until adhesive sets
6. Allow 24 hours before heavy use

For Full Grip Replacement

Removing Old Grips:

1. Compressed Air Method: Insert thin nozzle between grip and shaft; blast air while twisting
2. Hot Water Method: Submerge grip in hot water to soften adhesive; twist off
3. Solvent Method: Use rubbing alcohol or grip solvent; work carefully
4. Cutting Method: As last resort, carefully cut grip lengthwise and peel off

Installing New Grips:

1. Clean shaft thoroughly
2. Apply grip adhesive or double-sided tape
3. Slide new grip on with twisting motion
4. Ensure proper alignment (ergonomic grips have specific orientation)
5. Allow to cure per manufacturer instructions

Pro Tips for Grip Upgrades

Measure Twice: Confirm grip diameter before purchasing. Most poles are 16-18mm at the grip area.

Test Before Trail: Take a short walk with new grips before committing to a long hike.

Consider Strap Integration: Ensure new grips work with your strap system or plan to replace straps too.

Match Both Poles: Replace grips on both poles for balanced feel.

Keep Spares: Wrap-on grips are small and light; carry a spare for emergencies.

What Hikers Say

"I added PaceOn CorkWrap to my old aluminum poles," shares Mike, a weekend hiker. "They feel like new $100 poles now. The cork is comfortable, grips sweat perfectly, and installation took 10 minutes. Best $15 I've spent on gear."

"My hands were killing me on long hikes until I switched to Grab-On foam grips," says Jennifer, a long-distance backpacker. "The extra cushioning made all the difference. No more hand fatigue."

The Bottom Line

Upgrading your walking pole grips is one of the most cost-effective improvements you can make to your hiking experience. Whether you choose the natural comfort of cork wraps, the plush cushioning of foam replacements, or the all-weather reliability of rubber grips, aftermarket options abound for every need and budget.

For most hikers, PaceOn CorkWrap offers the perfect balance of affordability, easy installation, and genuine comfort improvement. It transforms any pole into a sweat-absorbing, comfortable companion without permanent modification.

For those seeking maximum cushioning, Grab-On foam grips deliver exceptional comfort, especially for hikers with arthritis or hand pain. And for wet-weather warriors, Lizard Skins wraps provide unparalleled traction.

Remember that your hands are your primary connection to your poles. Investing in their comfort pays dividends in reduced fatigue, fewer blisters, and more enjoyable hikes. One upgraded grip at a time, you'll transform your poles into perfectly personalized tools for adventure.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about gear modification. Always follow manufacturer instructions for installation and ensure any modifications don't compromise pole safety. When in doubt, consult a professional.