Best gymnastics grips for men and women (2026)
Most gymnasts start with a beginner or narrow dowel grip, such as the Gibson Just Right (4.3★, 512 Amazon ratings), when their coach says swings need it. Women use uneven bar grips. Men use high bar grips (slim dowel) and ring grips (larger dowel). Measure from the base of the palm to the tip of the middle finger to size them.
Last updated 2026-10-29 · Based on specs, reviews and retailer dataComparison table
| Grip | Type | Price | Rating | Seller |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gibson Just Right Uneven Bar Grips | Women's bar grips (dowel) | $44.46 | 4.3★ (512) | Amazon |
| Reisport Women's Uneven Bar Grips | Women's bar grips (dowel) | $64.99 | — | Gibson Athletic |
| Gibson Girls' Summit Uneven Bar Grips | Beginner and kids' grips | $39.99 | — | Gibson Athletic |
| Reisport Men's High Bar Grips | Men's high bar grips | $64.99 | 4.5★ (253) | Gibson Athletic |
| Gibson Boys' Summit High Bar Grips | Men's high bar grips | $54.99 | — | Gibson Athletic |
| Reisport Men's Ring Grips | Men's rings and pommel / P-bar | $64.99 | 4.5★ (251) | Gibson Athletic |
| Reisport Wrist Supports | Men's rings and pommel / P-bar | $44.99 | — | Gibson Athletic |
Women's bar grips (dowel)
Gibson Just Right Uneven Bar Grips
$44.46
Narrow dowel grip built for ages ~7-12 moving into dowel grips.
Reisport Women's Uneven Bar Grips
$64.99
Swiss-made dowel grip common at higher levels.
👍 Reviewers on Amazon praise the quality and say they work well for smaller hands; several said they broke in quickly.
👎 The most common complaint is very small finger holes; durability and sizing reports are mixed (some tore early, some found the size chart ran small).
Beginner and kids' grips
Gibson Girls' Summit Uneven Bar Grips
$39.99
Lower-priced first dowel grip.
Men's high bar grips
Reisport Men's High Bar Grips
$64.99
Three-finger, slim-dowel high bar grip.
Gibson Boys' Summit High Bar Grips
$54.99
Starter high bar grip for boys.
👍 Shoppers describe great quality and a good fit.
👎 The main complaint in the listing snapshot is price.
Men's rings and pommel / P-bar
Reisport Men's Ring Grips
$64.99
Two-finger, large-dowel ring grip; many use on P-bars too.
Reisport Wrist Supports
$44.99
Wrist supports worn under grips on pommel and floor.
👍 Rated 4.5 on Amazon at the time we checked.
👎 We did not read enough individual reviews to summarize pros and cons; check the listing.
Sizing tips
- Measure from the base of the palm to the tip of the middle finger and use the maker's chart (Reisport lists XS under 6.5", S 6.5-7", M 7-7.5", L 7.5-8").
- Between sizes? Ask the coach; many go smaller because leather stretches.
- Wear wristbands under grips to stop rubbing.
Breaking in grips
- Expect new leather grips to feel stiff and tight for a few practices.
- Many parents enlarge tight finger holes with sandpaper wrapped around a pencil, as reviewers describe.
- Never stretch grips by hanging on household equipment.
Frequently asked questions
How do I size gymnastics grips?
Measure from the base of the palm to the tip of the middle finger and match the maker's size chart.
How long does it take to break in grips?
Usually a few practices to a couple of weeks of regular use.
When should a gymnast get dowel grips?
When the coach decides, usually around Level 4-6 when giant swings and kips need a stronger hold.
Can girls use men's grips?
No. Men's high bar and ring grips have different dowels and finger holes from women's bar grips.
What are beginner grips?
Simple palm guards or narrow dowel grips (like Gibson Just Right) for younger gymnasts.
How do I clean gymnastics grips?
Brush off chalk and air-dry; don't soak leather or put it in the dryer.
Do grips prevent rips?
They reduce rips and blisters but don't eliminate them; good hand care still matters.