#002 The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Gymnastics Grips
- wolfwear24
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 2
For Gymnasts Looking to Level Up
If you're a gymnast moving into bigger skills—think giants, pirouettes, or flyaways—grips can be a game-changer. Most athletes start wearing grips around Level 4, once they’ve built strong basics and are working toward more advanced bar skills. But with so many styles and options, how do you choose the right ones? Here’s your 2-minute crash course.
Why Use Grips?
Grips are designed to improve your hold on the bar, especially during big swings where slipping could mean missing the skill—or worse, an injury. They also offer added protection for your hands, helping to reduce rips, blisters, and calluses.
Beginner, Elite, or ALPHA — Which Grip Is Right for You?
At Wolf Wear, we offer three grip lines designed for different skill levels and training needs:
Built with soft, comfortable leather shaped for smaller hands and wrists. These grips are easy to break in, budget-friendly, and perfect for gymnasts just starting out. Ideal for Levels 3–5.
Made for competitive athletes who need both comfort and durability. The high-strength leather resists tearing and stretching while keeping enough grip texture to prevent slipping. Recommended for Levels 6 through college.
Our strongest and most advanced grip. The palm is made from our patented leather-Kevlar blend, giving it up to 100x the tensile strength of standard leather to reduce the risk of snapping under intense training. ALPHA grips also feature reinforced rivets and double stitching for maximum security.
Buckle vs. Velcro: Which Fastener Type?
This comes down to personal preference.
Velcro grips are quick to adjust between turns—ideal if you like to tighten or loosen during practice.
Buckle grips offer a secure, locked-in feel, which many gymnasts love for confidence on high-level skills.
Try both if you can—your preference might surprise you.
Regular vs. Narrow Palm Design
For uneven bar grips, you’ll notice two main palm shapes:
Regular palms provide more coverage and are ideal for most gymnasts.
Narrow palms have become popular with gymnasts under 100 lbs or those who prefer more bar-to-hand contact. They’re strong and durable but allow for a more "bare hand" feel.
Wrist Care is Key
A grip should fit snugly just under your palm or at the top of your wrist. If you're always pulling your grips down, they may be too long. Rubbing can cause irritation, so wristbands are preferred by many.
Neoprene wristbands give a snug, padded fit that reduces friction.
Cotton bands are softer and more breathable. Some gymnasts also use pre-wrap & tape underneath for extra comfort.
When to Replace Grips
Grips wear out—especially with daily use. At Wolf Wear, our grips use a unique layering system to help prevent sudden tears. If you notice:
Stretching
Fraying
Delamination (layers separating)…it’s time to replace them. Don’t wait until the grip fails mid-skill.
Finger Hole Sizing & Break-In Tips
Finger holes are the trickiest part. They should slide just past your first knuckle—snug but not tight. You can enlarge them using:
Sandpaper wrapped around a pencil
One blade of a pair of scissors
Gymnastics Planet also sells a specific tool
Wolf Wear grips break in quickly—usually within 2–3 turns, they’re routine-ready and forming to your hands.
Final Fit: Sizing Support
Every Wolf Wear product page includes grip sizing instructions. Fit can be a personal thing—some gymnasts like a tighter or looser grip. If you’re unsure, reach out to us or ask your coach for advice on sizing and break-in tips.
Ready to gear up with confidence? Explore our full line of grips designed for performance, comfort, and safety. Let me know if you'd like help choosing the best grip type, sizing guide, or wristband options.