Best Mountain Bike Grips for Every Trail (2026)
Grips are your main contact with the bike. Here are popular lock-on grips and how to pick thickness, pattern and compound for your hands.
Why Grips Matter
Your hands are one of your main contact points with the bike. Good grips damp vibration, stay tacky when wet and don't twist. The right thickness and pattern reduces fatigue on long descents.
ODI Rogue V2.1
Best thick, cushioned grip
- Classic Rogue large-pad design
- Soft compound TPE
- Large 33.5mm diameter
Ergon GE1 Evo Factory
Best ergonomic grip
- Ergon Factory rubber compound
- Designed for wide gravity bars
- Lightweight aluminum clamp
DMR Deathgrip Race
Best tacky race grip
- Super-soft Race Day compound
- Tapered core, no outer lock ring
- Waffle and knurl patterns
Grips Compared
| Grip | Feel | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ODI Rogue V2.1 | Thick, cushioned | Large pad design, 33.5mm diameter | Big hands, rough trails |
| Ergon GE1 Evo Factory | Ergonomic | Factory compound, for wide bars | Enduro and trail |
| DMR Deathgrip Race | Tacky | Race Day compound, tapered core | Gravity riding |
| Wolf Tooth Fat Paw | Soft, thick | Silicone foam, lock-on | Vibration damping |
| PNW Loam | Tacky, dual pattern | Happy Camper compound | Trail and enduro |
The Best Mountain Bike Grips
1. ODI Rogue V2.1
The classic Rogue large-pad design in a soft TPE compound. At a large 33.5mm diameter, it's one of the thicker options for shock absorption.
Good to Know
- Lots of cushioning
- Lock-on
Watch Out For
- May feel too thick for small hands
2. Ergon GE1 Evo Factory
Uses Ergon's Factory rubber compound, with textured zones oriented against hand rotation and a lightweight inboard aluminum clamp. Designed for the wide bars on gravity bikes.
Good to Know
- Ergonomic shaping
- Single inboard clamp
Watch Out For
- Check size (regular vs slim)
3. DMR Deathgrip Race
A super-soft, super-tacky "Race Day" compound, a tapered core that removes the outer lock ring, and waffle and knurl patterns for grip.
Good to Know
- Very tacky
- No outer clamp
Watch Out For
- Soft compounds may wear faster
4. Wolf Tooth Fat Paw
Silicone foam in an easy lock-on format, aimed at vibration damping, and compatible with standard mountain bike bars.
Check Price on Amazon5. PNW Loam
A trail and enduro grip with a tacky "Happy Camper" compound and a dual-pattern surface: thin traction strips plus a thicker palm pattern.
Check Price on AmazonHow to Choose
- Lock-on vs slip-on: lock-ons don't twist.
- Thickness: match to hand size and comfort.
- Compound: softer is tackier but may wear faster.
- Shape: ergonomic wings vs round profiles.
- Length: make sure there's room for brakes and shifters.
Installing Lock-On Grips
- Remove the old grips and clean the bar of dirt and old glue.
- Slide the new grips on until the inner end of each grip sits flush with the bar end; don't let grips overhang the bar.
- Line up any ergonomic wings to suit your wrist angle.
- Tighten the clamp bolt with the right hex key to the maker's torque. ODI, for example, specifies 40–45 in-lbs (4.5–5.0 Nm) for its lock-on clamps.
- Check the grips can't twist before you ride.
Slip-on grips go on more easily with compressed air or a little rubbing alcohol, which evaporates and lets the grip set. Always fit bar-end plugs: an open bar end can cause injury in a crash.
When to Replace Grips
- The rubber is worn smooth, torn or sticky.
- Lock-on cores crack or grips twist even when clamped.
- Your hands slip in wet weather even with gloves.
Pair grips with gloves, and see how to manual, helmets and pedals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lock-on or slip-on grips?
Lock-on grips clamp to the bar and don't twist; slip-on grips are lighter and cheaper but can rotate. Most trail riders choose lock-ons.
Should I get thick or thin grips?
Thicker grips add cushioning and suit bigger hands; thinner grips give more bar feel and suit smaller hands.
Do grips help with hand pain?
Cushioned or ergonomic grips can help, along with bike fit and brake lever setup.
How often should I replace grips?
When they're worn smooth, torn or slipping.
Will these fit my handlebars?
Most fit standard mountain bike bars; check the listing for compatibility and length.
How tight should lock-on grip bolts be?
Follow the maker's torque. ODI, for example, specifies 40–45 in-lbs (4.5–5.0 Nm) for its lock-on clamps.
Do I need bar-end plugs?
Yes. Lock-on grips usually include closed ends, and slip-on grips need plugs; open bar ends can cause injury in a crash.