Where to buy cork grips for trekking poles in the UK?

A worn, cracked, or slippery grip is a common issue with a well-used pair of trekking poles. Over time, the cork—a natural material—can become compressed, smooth, or even start to flake away. Replacing the grips is often the best way to extend the life of your poles, saving you the cost of a new set. The short answer is that you can buy cork grips for trekking poles in the UK from brand-specific distributors, major outdoor retailers, and online marketplaces. This guide explains exactly where to look, what to consider, and how to ensure you get the right fit.

Why Choose Cork Grips?

Before we discuss where to buy them, let's briefly cover why cork grips are the preferred choice for most walkers in the UK.

• Tacky When Wet: Cork is a naturally porous material that becomes more grippy when wet, a huge advantage in the UK's rainy climate.
• Sweat-Wicking: It absorbs moisture from your hands, preventing the slick, slippery feeling you get with rubber or foam.
• Moulds to Your Hand: Over time, a cork grip will compress and mould to the shape of your hand, creating a personalised, comfortable fit.
• Durable: Cork is surprisingly resilient and can last for many years of regular use.

Brand-Specific Distributors – The Most Reliable Option

The safest way to get a perfect fit is to buy directly from the official UK distributor of your pole's brand. These distributors often stock a full range of spare parts, including grips.

Pele Sports (Leki UK Distributor)

If you own Leki poles, Pele Sports is your go-to source. As the official UK distributor, they carry genuine Leki parts, including cork grips for popular models like the Makalu.

• Website: pelea-sports.co.uk (Search for "Leki replacement grip").
• Price Range: £15-25 per pair.
• Why it's the best: You are guaranteed a genuine Leki product, and they often offer excellent technical advice on which grip fits your specific model.

Black Diamond (via Retailers)

Black Diamond does not sell directly to the public in the UK, but they supply their spare parts to major retailers.

• Cotswold Outdoor: They can order genuine Black Diamond grips for you. Search their website or visit a store.
• Go Outdoors: Another major stockist that can source Black Diamond parts.
• Price Range: £15-30 per pair.

Major UK Outdoor Retailers – The In-Store Option

If you prefer to see a product before you buy, or you need advice on fit, the UK's major outdoor retailers are an excellent option.

Cotswold Outdoor

Cotswold is a leading retailer with a wide range of outdoor gear. They stock genuine spare grips for brands they sell, particularly Leki and Black Diamond.

• Availability: Both online and in-store. You can check availability on their website.
• Advice: Their staff are knowledgeable and can help you confirm compatibility.

Go Outdoors

Another major chain with a huge online presence and large stores across the UK.

• Availability: They stock a range of spare parts, including some universal grip options, in addition to brand-specific parts.
• Price Match: Go Outdoors is known for its Price Match +10% guarantee. If you find a better price elsewhere, they will beat it.

Ellis Brigham

A smaller, specialist mountaineering retailer. They are an excellent source for genuine spare parts for high-end poles, particularly Leki and Black Diamond. Their staff are often very experienced.

Online Marketplaces – The Budget Option

For a cheaper or more convenient option, online marketplaces are a goldmine of cork grips.

Amazon UK

Amazon has a vast selection of replacement cork grips.

• Availability: You can find both genuine branded grips and generic, universal ones.
• Price Range: From £8 (generic) to £25 (branded).
• Be Careful: Read the product description carefully. Measure your pole's diameter (usually 16-18mm for the top section) to ensure a good fit. Check reviews to avoid poor-quality grips.

eBay UK

Similar to Amazon, eBay is a great source for both branded and unbranded grips.

• Availability: A wide range of options, including used or "new old stock" grips.
• Price Range: Very competitive, but check seller feedback.

Universal Cork Grips – The DIY Option

If you can't find a branded replacement, or you want a different colour or shape, you can buy universal cork grips. They are designed to fit a standard diameter shaft.

• Design: They are often supplied as two parts that you glue onto the pole.
• Availability: Amazon, eBay, and some DIY stores.
• Fit: They are a one-size-fits-all solution, so the fit might not be as precise as a genuine branded grip. You will need a strong adhesive (like contact adhesive) to secure them.
• Cost: They are cheaper, typically £10-15 per pair.

How to Fit a New Cork Grip (A Quick Guide)

Replacing a trekking pole grip is a common DIY task.

1. Remove the Old Grip: This can be the trickiest part. If the grip is glued on, you'll need to soften the glue.The Boiling Water Method: Submerge the old grip in a mug of boiling water for 30-60 seconds. This softens the glue and expands the plastic.The "Twist and Pull": Using a cloth for grip, twist the old grip vigorously while pulling it off.
2. Prepare the New Grip: Clean the shaft with some alcohol to remove any old glue.
3. Fit the New Grip: If it's a branded grip, it should slide on. For a universal grip, apply the adhesive to the inside of the grip and slide it on quickly, aligning it correctly.
4. Leave to Set: Allow the adhesive to cure as per the manufacturer's instructions before using the pole.

A Quick Comparison: Where to Buy

Final Checklist

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Over to You

Replacing a worn cork grip is a simple, cost-effective way to give your trekking poles a new lease of life. Whether you choose to buy a genuine branded grip from Pele Sports or Cotswold Outdoor, or a cheaper universal option from Amazon, the UK has plenty of sources. Just make sure you choose the correct fit, and take your time with the fitting process. With a fresh pair of cork grips, your poles will feel as good as new.