At On Yer Bike, we go through a lot of grips – testing, swapping, and pushing them to their limits. So, we thought it’d be helpful to share a brief overview and buyer’s guide of the grips we think truly stand out and are worth a try.
Below, we’ve listed our top three grips. Each one brings something unique to the table, but much like saddles, grips are a deeply personal choice. What works perfectly for us might not feel quite right for you, and vice versa. With that in mind, here’s a quick guide to help you make an informed decision and find the grip that’s best for your riding style and comfort.
DMR Deathgrip
Summary
Deathgrip: A Versatile All-Rounder
The Deathgrip has long been a crowd favorite and a top seller, thanks to its versatile design in collaboration with the legendary Brendog himself. Available in two compounds, soft and hard – and two thicknesses, thin and thick – there’s a version to suit just about every rider’s preference.
With a huge range of colour options, from classic black to bold pink marble, you can easily match your style. For our test, we went with the soft, thin version.
Performance & Durability
While the softer compound delivers excellent comfort and grip, it does come at a cost. Noticeable wear after just a couple of months. This is pretty standard for softer grips, especially if you ride with gloves. I also experienced a slight tingling sensation in my hands after longer descents, which could be a concern for riders who prioritize all-day comfort. That said, the grip was more than adequate in all conditions, and I never felt like I needed more control.
Value for Money
At £21 (at the time of writing), the Deathgrip offers great value for a premium-quality grip with loads of customization options.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Affordable price point
Wide variety of colors
Reliable grip in all weather conditions
Cons:
Soft compound wears out quickly
May cause hand discomfort on extended rides
Verdict
The Deathgrip is a solid choice for riders looking for a high-performing grip at a reasonable price. Just keep in mind the trade-off between comfort and durability if you opt for the softer compound.
Ergon GDH Team
Summary
Ergon GDH Team Grips: Ergonomics Done Right
Ergon has a reputation for producing some of the best ergonomic cycling accessories, from saddles to bar tape and bags. Unsurprisingly, their new GDH Team grips deliver exceptional performance and comfort for Enduro and Downhill riders.
The grips feature an extra soft compound designed to maximize comfort without feeling overly squishy. What truly sets them apart is their unique shape, which contours perfectly to your hands. This design promotes optimal hand positioning and ensures maximum palm-to-grip contact for enhanced control.
First Impressions & Performance
From the first ride, the GDH Team grips impressed me with their balance of softness and durability. They felt great in the hand and provided a noticeable reduction in arm pump during longer, steeper descents. Unlike softer compounds that tend to wear quickly, these grips held up impressively well, showing little to no signs of wear.
The inner and outer stops are another standout feature, keeping your hands securely centered on the grip and eliminating any unwanted sliding.
Value for Money
At £34.99 (at the time of review), these grips are pricier than some alternatives, but the added comfort, durability, and ergonomic benefits make them well worth the investment for riders who demand top performance.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Long-lasting, soft compound
Exceptional ergonomics for hand positioning
Reduced arm pump on demanding descents
Cons:
Higher price compared to competitors
Verdict
The Ergon GDH Team grips are a fantastic choice for Enduro and Downhill riders looking to combine comfort, durability, and performance. While they come at a premium price, their unique features and overall quality make them a worthy upgrade.
Peatys Monarch
Summary
Peaty’s Monarch Grip: A New Contender in Comfort
The Peaty’s Monarch grip is the latest addition to the grip game, offering riders a blend of comfort and control with a host of thoughtful design features. Available in four colours, two thicknesses, and two distinct patterns (Knurl and Mushroom), the Monarch grip caters to a variety of preferences.
The Knurl grip, as the name suggests, features a knurled texture for a precise feel, while the Mushroom grip leans on a more traditional waffle design. Both patterns aim to provide a secure and comfortable hold, complemented by a soft compound, high-grip finger bars, and a tapered, offset core to enhance control and comfort.
Performance & Durability
Among the grips we tested, the Monarch stood out as the softest and tackiest compound, delivering exceptional comfort. Despite its softness, it showed impressive durability, with minimal wear even after extended use, a rare feat for grips this soft.
The Monarch grips also held up well under heavy impacts, remaining composed and firm even when the terrain got rough. However, they did reveal one notable weakness: their performance in wet conditions. Whether due to sweat or rain, the grips became noticeably slippery without gloves, which could be a concern for riders in damp climates or those who prefer gloveless riding.
Value for Money
At £24.99 these grips sit in the middle of the price point, the Monarch grip’s balance of comfort and durability makes it a strong contender, provided you’re prepared for its limitations in wet conditions.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Extremely soft and tacky compound
Surprisingly durable despite softness
Comfortable and composed on rough terrain
Cons:
Slippery when wet
Verdict
The Peaty’s Monarch grip is a fantastic choice for riders who prioritize comfort and a soft feel, particularly in dry conditions. Its durability and design make it a standout in its class, though its wet-weather performance may give pause to some riders.
