Best Gymnastics Grips for Every Level (2026)

The first pair of grips a gymnast buys is almost always wrong — too stiff, wrong size, buckle instead of velcro, dowel when she wasn't ready for one. It's not because families don't try. It's because nobody gives you a straightforward explanation of what actually matters at each level. This guide does exactly that.

Grips aren't universal. A dowel grip that works perfectly for a Level 9 gymnast on bars will feel clunky and wrong for a Level 5 who's still building hand strength. We break it down by level so you can get it right the first time.

Do You Actually Need Grips?

Most coaches recommend introducing grips between Levels 4 and 5, once a gymnast is consistently training giants and high-bar release skills. Before that point, grips can actually interfere with developing proper grip strength and bar feel.

If your gymnast is under Level 4 and asking for grips because their teammates have them, the answer is probably no, not yet. Talk to their coach first. The coach knows where their hands are.

Types of Gymnastics Grips Explained

There are two main types of gymnastics grips — understanding the difference is step one:

• Dowel grips: Have a rigid dowel rod sewn across the finger holes. Creates a distinct bar catch that allows for more secure releases and releases with more power. Standard for competitive gymnastics Levels 5 and up.
• Non-dowel (flat) grips: No dowel rod, just leather. Thinner and more flexible. Better for gymnasts just starting grips, or for beam/floor use. Also used in rhythmic gymnastics.

Best Grips by Level

How to Size Gymnastics Grips

Sizing grips correctly is as important as choosing the right brand. A grip that's too big is dangerous, it can catch on the bar during releases. Too small and it restricts circulation and causes blisters.

How to measure: Use a soft tape measure (or a strip of paper and a ruler) to measure the circumference of the palm just below the knuckles, with the hand flat. Most grip brands publish a size chart — use theirs, not a generic one, because sizing varies by brand.

• If between sizes: for dowel grips, go smaller. Leather stretches.
• For wrist-buckle grips: true to size or larger for comfort
• Remeasure every 6 months for growing athletes — sizing changes faster than you'd expect

Breaking In New Grips

New grips are stiff and don't perform well until broken in. The break-in process takes 1–3 weeks of regular practice. Here's how to speed it up safely:

• Wet the leather lightly with water and work it with your hands before the first use
• Do high repetition, lower-intensity bar work in early break-in sessions, not release moves on day one
• Apply chalk consistently from session one, it conditions the leather
• Never leave grips in a hot car or wet gym bag — heat and moisture degrade leather fast

When to Replace Grips

Worn-out grips are a safety issue. Replace them when:

• The leather has thinned to the point of transparency near the dowel
• The wrist buckle or velcro closure no longer holds securely
• The dowel is loose or shifting position
• Your gymnast is ripping more than usual (worn leather loses its protective friction properties)

Most serious competitive gymnasts go through 1–2 pairs per year at high training volume. Budget accordingly.

The Bottom Line

For Levels 5–7: start with Gibson Athletic. For Levels 8 and up: Reisport is the standard for good reason. For the transition period or wrist protection: Tiger Paws are worth every penny. And always, always measure before you order.