Mountain bike grips are a crucial contact point, often underestimated, yet vital for control, comfort, and overall riding experience. Whether you’re tackling technical descents, enduring long climbs, or enjoying flowy trails, having the right grips can significantly enhance your connection to your bike. If you’re on the hunt for an upgrade, especially if you prefer a bit more to hold onto, you’ve come to the right place. This in-depth review dives into a baker’s dozen of the Best Mountain Bike Grips currently on the market, focusing on oversized options designed for riders who crave extra surface area and enhanced performance.
For years, thinner grips were the standard. However, as riding styles evolve and riders push their limits, the demand for thicker grips has surged. This isn’t just about hand size; it’s about ergonomics, vibration damping, and maximizing grip in challenging conditions. Thicker grips can reduce hand fatigue, improve bike control on rough terrain, and even enhance overall confidence. This comprehensive guide explores a range of lock-on grips, all exceeding 33mm in diameter, to help you find your perfect match for ultimate trail domination and comfort. We’ve put these grips through rigorous testing, evaluating their feel, grip, durability, and overall performance to bring you the definitive guide to the best mountain bike grips for your needs.
In this review, we’re focusing exclusively on lock-on grips for their secure and reliable performance. While push-on grips have their place, lock-ons offer superior security, especially in demanding mountain biking scenarios. Furthermore, we’ve narrowed our selection to single-clamp lock-on grips. This preference stems from a comfort perspective, particularly for riders who, like our tester, often position their palms at the bar ends. Dual-clamp grips in this area can sometimes create discomfort. This focus on single-clamp, oversized lock-on grips ensures we’re comparing apples to apples and providing relevant recommendations for riders seeking this specific type of grip.
Our testing process is rooted in real-world riding. We’re not just squeezing grips in a workshop; we’re putting them to the test on the trails. Personal cockpit setup is paramount, and for our tester, that means 800mm handlebars and, invariably, oversized grips. This preference isn’t solely due to XXL glove size; it’s about the enhanced feel and subtle “squirm” that thicker grips provide. This “squirm,” far from being a negative, acts much like Mips technology in helmets, absorbing vibrations and impacts, reducing wrist fatigue, and enhancing overall comfort. The increased surface area also plays a crucial role in distributing pressure, further minimizing hand fatigue and maximizing grip. The market’s surge in oversized grips over the past five years speaks volumes about their benefits. So, let’s delve into the detailed reviews and discover which of these contenders are the best mountain bike grips for you.
Oury V2 – $33.99
- 33.2 mm thickness
- 135 mm length
- 121g weight
Starting with a legend, the Oury V2 grips are a modern evolution of a classic. The original Oury lock-ons were a go-to choice for many riders, and the V2 iteration seamlessly transitions to a single-clamp design. Manufactured by ODI, these grips feature a permanently affixed clamp, a testament to their quality and robust construction. The asymmetrical bolt orientation is cleverly offset by Oury’s 360-degree symmetrical design, allowing for customized bolt positioning based on rider preference and cockpit setup.
Despite their reputation for being soft and squishy, the Oury V2 lock-ons surprised us with their minimal squirm. This controlled feel is likely attributed to the large square blocks in the grip pattern, effectively resisting unwanted shearing motion and maintaining a direct connection to the handlebars. This balance positions the Oury V2 nicely between grips prioritizing control, like the Sensus Meaty Paws, and those emphasizing comfort, such as the Deity models. The wide channels between the square blocks provide excellent fingertip grip without feeling obtrusive in the palm, a well-considered design element.
One minor drawback is the thumb groove, which could benefit from a slightly wider profile. While it offers thumb security, it can feel somewhat restrictive in terms of thumb positioning. In comparison, grips like the OneUp Thick, ODI Reflex XL, and Peaty’s Monarchs offer similar thumb anchoring with greater freedom of movement.
Pros:
- Balanced feel, not overly squishy
- Simple, symmetrical design allows for customizable setup
- Integrated clamp for durability
- Performs well with or without gloves
Cons:
- Thumb groove could be wider for enhanced freedom
- Not the softest option for maximum vibration damping
ODI Rogue 2.1 – $30.95
- 33.4 mm thickness
- 135 mm length
- 127 g weight
Another classic contender from ODI, the Rogue V2.1 grips maintain the tradition of quality and performance. Featuring an embedded clamp and a straightforward, consistent pattern, the Rogue V2.1 allows for flexible bolt positioning during installation. While visually similar to the Oury grips in their simple pattern and thickness, the Rogue 2.1 offers a distinctly different ride feel.
The Rogue 2.1 exhibits slightly more squirm than the Oury V2, contributing to enhanced damping of oblique impacts, particularly during steep braking scenarios. This increased squirm is likely due to the smaller “knobs” and the inclusion of deep sipes on each knob. However, the deeper channels between these knobs make the Rogue 2.1 less comfortable for gloveless riding, potentially creating a bumpy feel, reminiscent of older Yeti grips.
If you appreciate the overall design of the Rogue 2.1 but prefer a smoother feel, the Oury V2 presents a viable alternative. However, for riders who have been fans of the Rogue grips over the years, the V2.1 iteration maintains the core characteristics while offering subtle improvements.
Pros:
- Optimal squirm level for fatigue reduction
- Simple design for versatile bolt placement
- Integrated clamp for reliability
Cons:
- Lacks a defined thumb groove
- Sparse knob pattern might be uncomfortable without gloves for some riders
ODI Reflex XL – $30.95
- 33.5 mm thickness
- 135 mm length
- 117.7 g weight
The ODI Reflex XL marks a shift towards more feature-rich designs. As the larger version of a standard-thickness model, it addresses the need for size options within grip lines. Ideally, all grip models would offer multiple size options, catering to a wider range of rider preferences and hand sizes. While our tester appreciates the concept, the left/right-specific pattern of the Reflex XL introduces a common issue: fixed bolt positioning. This can sometimes lead to clamp bolts interfering with shifter paddles, requiring adjustments to component placement.
Despite this bolt placement limitation, the Reflex XL excels in several areas. The “waffle” pattern under the fingertips provides exceptional grip and security, while the recessed diamond-print panels under the palm create a unique feel. This design effectively reduces the perceived thickness of the grip in the palm area, making it suitable for a broader range of hand sizes, including medium to XL. The shallow mushroom-print panels under the palm also contribute to a comfortable feel, even without gloves. The Reflex XL strikes a good balance between a large grip feel and maintaining a positive connection with the bike.
Pros:
- Suitable for a range of hand sizes, not just large hands
- Secure grip at the fingertips
- Comfortable and supportive thumb bed
- Performs well with or without gloves
Cons:
- May not feel as thick as some other oversized grips
- Fixed clamp bolt position can be inconvenient for some cockpit setups
Wolf Tooth Fat Paw Lock-On – $34.95
- 37.5 mm thickness
- 135 mm length
- 142 g weight
Wolf Tooth’s Fat Paw Lock-On grips represent the extreme end of the oversized spectrum. Building upon the legacy of Red Monkey grips, known for their silicone rubber construction, the Fat Paw grips offer a substantial increase in diameter. While Wolf Tooth advertises a 36mm diameter, our measurements indicate a robust 37.5mm, making them the thickest lock-on grips in this test. For riders seeking maximum cushioning and bar feel reduction, these grips are a prime contender. The clamps, manufactured in Minnesota, are removable, allowing for cost-effective replacement of worn grips. The non-position-specific design offers complete freedom in bolt orientation.
In standard technical trail riding, the sheer thickness of the Fat Paw grips presented some challenges. The large diameter could push thumbs back into an uncomfortable position, particularly for riders with previous thumb injuries. While shaving down the grip profile might seem like a solution, it’s not recommended due to potential rotation of the silicone outer layer on the plastic core over time.
However, the Wolf Tooth Fat Paw grips truly shine in specific applications. For bikepacking or touring bikes with swept-back handlebars, the reduced stress on the thumbs and enhanced long-term comfort make them an excellent choice. Their thick, soft silicone construction excels at absorbing vibrations and providing a plush feel for extended rides.
Pros:
- Thickest lock-on grip available in this test
- Replaceable grip sleeves offer long-term value
- Simple design for customizable setup
- Soft, comfortable silicone feel
- Performs well with or without gloves in dry conditions
Cons:
- May be too thick for some riders and riding styles
- Silicone can become slippery when wet without gloves
- Separate bar plugs are prone to loss during removal
Race Face Chester 34mm – $27.00
- 34 mm max thickness, 31.6 mm min thickness
- 137mm length
- 125g weight
The Race Face Chester 34mm grips are another example of a model offering multiple size options. The 34mm version, while marketed as such, features a tapered design, thinning slightly towards the thumb pad. This taper, similar to the Ergon GA2 Fat and PNW Loam XL, aims to maintain a familiar feel near the controls, potentially appealing to riders with average hand sizes. The Chester grips offer appealing aesthetics, including a gum rubber option and various clamp colors, including a “Kashmoney” gold. Symmetrical and swappable clamps allow for convenient bolt placement, regardless of shifter or brake lever positioning.
The Chester grips adopt a less prescriptive approach to surface contours compared to more intricate designs like the ODI Reflex XL. While top/bottom specific, they are not left/right specific. A notable design element is the raised “floor” under the mushroom print in the palm area. This maintains the outer diameter while reducing the depth of the ridges, potentially enhancing durability in this high-wear zone.
The underside features waffle-print lines bordering a recessed channel, providing secure fingertip grip without feeling overly restrictive. The transition into and out of this channel is gradual, accommodating slight hand position adjustments. The deeper ribs around the thumb area further contribute to a secure and adaptable feel. The slight taper makes the Chester 34mm grips accessible to a wider range of hand sizes, offering a uniquely shaped grip that promotes proper hand positioning without demanding perfect installation alignment.
Pros:
- Waffle pattern provides grip without restricting hand position
- Symmetrical, swappable clamps for easy bolt access
- Comfortable and supportive thumb bed
- Suitable for a range of hand sizes
- Performs well with or without gloves
Cons:
- May not feel as thick as some other oversized grips
Peaty’s Monarch Mushroom and Monarch Knurl – $26.78
- 34.0 mm thickness
- 138 mm length
- 128 g weight
Peaty’s Monarch grips come in two variations, Mushroom and Knurl, differing only in the palm texture. Currently, US availability is limited, but this is expected to change. Both versions are left/right specific with removable clamps, allowing for bolt orientation adjustments. Swapping the clamps will reverse the left/right indication, but the grip contour clearly indicates proper orientation.
The thumb panels on the Peaty’s Monarch grips are a standout feature, described as the tester’s favorite in this review. Large patches of deep zig-zag waffle print offer exceptional thumb security and comfort, even without gloves, feeling akin to sinking into soft grass. The underside features dotted waffle prints for fingertip grip, offering a secure yet subtly yielding feel, similar to Velcro, reducing hand tension.
The Mushroom version, paired with the waffle thumb panel, provides a comfortable and fatigue-reducing squirm. While the Knurl version may offer enhanced durability, the Mushroom version better leverages the grip’s strengths in comfort and feel.
Pros:
- Secure and comfortable fingertip grip
- Exceptionally comfortable and supportive thumb bed
- Swappable clamps with consistent bolt orientation
- Performs well with or without gloves
Cons:
- Limited US availability at the time of writing
Oneup Thick Grips – $26.99
- 33.0 mm thickness
- 135 mm length
- 144 g weight
OneUp Components takes a unique approach to grip sizing, offering Thick, Thin, and standard “Grips” within the same design family. The Thick Grips, reviewed here, incorporate all of OneUp’s grip features. Symmetrical, removable clamps allow for customizable bolt orientation.
The palm area features subtle, raised knobs that provide noticeable arch support-like sensation. This positioning favors an outboard hand placement and may not align perfectly for riders who grip closer to the bar center. The inboard thumb panel features a generous mushroom print, offering comfort comparable to the ODI Reflex XL and superior lock-in compared to the Race Face Chester.
The standout feature of the OneUp Thick Grips is the raised waffle print underside. Extending almost 2mm above the grip surface, these waffles provide exceptional fingertip engagement and security. While more flexible than the Race Face Chester’s underside, the overall grip feel is locked-in and direct, with minimal squirm. As a bonus, a matching thumb pad is available for OneUp dropper levers, creating a cohesive cockpit aesthetic.
Pros:
- Secure and highly tactile fingertip grip
- Non-recessed fingertip texture maintains a substantial grip feel
- Comfortable and supportive thumb bed
- Symmetrical, swappable clamps for easy bolt access
- Supportive bump under the palm
- Performs well with or without gloves
Cons:
- Tall waffle print underside may be overly aggressive for some riders
PNW Loam XL – $26.00
- 34.0 mm max thickness, 31.8 mm min thickness
- 133 mm length
- 132 g weight
The PNW Loam XL grips feature subtle left/right specificity but retain the convenience of swappable clamps for optimal bolt orientation. The left/right difference is primarily in a slight twist near the clamp, subtle enough to require close inspection to discern. This subtle asymmetry allows for fine-tuning thumb positioning and cushioning.
The Loam XL grips feature a taper extending almost to the inner edge, similar to the ODI Reflex XL. This design makes oversized grips more accessible to riders with average hand sizes and mitigates potential brake lever reach adjustments sometimes needed with thicker grips. The tapered design maintains a familiar feel near the controls while providing added comfort in the outer palm area.
PNW employs an ultra-thick mushroom zig-zag pattern in the outer section, offering enhanced durability compared to thinner mushroom patterns while providing more grip and cushioning than diamond patterns. The Loam XL grips exhibit minimal squirm, contributing to a direct and controlled feel. The various surface textures work subtly together, creating a balanced and “normal-feeling” grip within the oversized category. Notably, the PNW Loam XL grips are also the most affordable in this test.
Pros:
- Suitable for a range of hand sizes
- Performs well with or without gloves
- Comfortable and supportive thumb bed
- Symmetrical, swappable clamps for easy bolt access
- Most affordable grips in the test
- Firmer feel compared to some softer grips
Cons:
- May not feel as thick as some other oversized grips
- Firmer feel might not be ideal for riders seeking maximum plushness
Ergon GA2 FAT – $29.95
- 34.0 mm max thickness, 31,6 mm min thickness
- 135 mm length
- 139 g weight
The Ergon GA2 FAT grips, as the name suggests, are the thicker version of Ergon’s popular GA2 model. While our tester expresses a general dislike for Ergon bar plugs, the clamp bolt orientation is commendable, positioned upwards for easy access. Gradients etched into the clamps assist in aligning the left and right sides, which feature subtle differences in panel siping.
Surprisingly, the Ergon GA2 FAT grips exhibited the most squirm in this test, second only to the Deity grips. The uniquely soft rubber compound contributes to this plush feel, negating the need for aggressive surface textures. The GA2 FAT grips are tapered, mirroring the dimensions of the PNW Loam XL, and similarly conservative in surface variation. The primary differentiator is Ergon’s exceptionally soft rubber, particularly noticeable at the heel of the hand, providing significant cushioning.
While some aggressive riders might prefer a more direct connection, the GA2 FAT’s cushioning is appreciated for its vibration damping and comfort, especially in high-impact zones. The underside features shallow ridges, similar to the Peaty’s grips, offering a positive grip feel that is surprisingly effective for a relatively smooth grip design, although less aggressive than the ODI Reflex XL or OneUp Thick.
Pros:
- Suitable for a range of hand sizes
- Performs exceptionally well with and without gloves
- Low-profile texture is grippy without being distracting
- Upward-facing clamp bolts for easy access
Cons:
- Separate bar plugs
- May not feel as thick as some other oversized grips
Deity Supracush – $27.99
- 33.0 mm thickness
- 132 mm length
- 123 g weight
The Deity Supracush grips are renowned for their exceptional softness and stretchiness. While not necessarily softer than the silicone Wolf Tooth Fat Paw grips, the Supracush grips exhibit greater elasticity. This inherent gripiness eliminates the need for complex surface textures, reducing potential wear and tear points. The symmetrical shape allows for customizable bolt orientation.
On the trail, the Supracush’s signature stretchiness creates a unique ride feel. Along with the Deity Megattack, these grips exhibited the most squirm in this test. This squirm, however, is not due to chassis flex but rather the inherent elasticity of the rubber compound, enhanced by traction pads on the inner surface. This characteristic almost evokes the feel of Rev Grips, which incorporate sprung rotation within the clamps.
While the squirm may require some acclimation, it provides a helpful damping effect, absorbing tangential forces between the rider and the handlebars. However, during aggressive maneuvers like jumping or lifting the front end, the squirm can feel slightly disconcerting initially. Despite this, the Supracush grips offer exceptional comfort and were strong contenders in the top three.
Pros:
- Simple design for customizable setup
- Second softest grip in this test
- Suitable for a range of hand sizes
- Durable construction
- Performs exceptionally well with and without gloves
Cons:
- Softness and stretchiness may feel vague to some riders
- May not feel as thick as some other oversized grips
Deity Megattack – $27.99
- 35 mm thickness
- 140 mm length
- 154 g weight
The Deity Megattack grips stand out as the softest in this test, utilizing the same plush rubber compound as the Supracush but with increased volume. Like the Supracush, the Megattack grips are non-directional, allowing for customizable bolt orientation.
The Megattack grips excel in bump absorption, making them an ideal choice for cross-country or trail bikes where comfort is paramount. They effectively reduce high-speed impact harshness, enhancing both hand comfort and overall ride quality. The mushroom print thumb panels are exceptionally comfortable, while the waffle pattern checkered with recessed panels on the underside provides secure fingertip grip. These recesses allow riders with average hand sizes to benefit from the cushioning while maintaining a positive connection.
The Megattack grips exhibit the most squirm in this test, which may require an adjustment period. However, for riders prioritizing maximum comfort and vibration damping, the Megattack grips are unparalleled, offering a level of plushness comparable to wing-shaped Ergon GP1 grips.
Pros:
- Softest grip in this test
- Secure fingertip grip
- Exceptionally comfortable and supportive thumb bed
- Performs exceptionally well with and without gloves
- Slightly longer length for enhanced hand placement options
Cons:
- Softness and stretchiness may feel vague to some riders
- Fixed clamp bolt position may be inconvenient for some cockpit setups
Sensus Meaty Paws – $32.99
- 35.0 mm thickness
- 150 mm length
- 163 g weight
The Sensus Meaty Paws grips, while sharing the same 35mm diameter as the Deity Megattack, offer a dramatically different feel. Completely non-directional, the Meaty Paws allow for unrestricted bolt orientation. In contrast to the plush Deity grips, the Meaty Paws are surprisingly firm, with stiffer rubber and shallower texturing.
This firmness translates to a direct and responsive connection with the handlebars. The Meaty Paws offer minimal squirm, maximizing rider input and bike responsiveness. This direct feel is particularly beneficial on moderate-travel bikes, enhancing agility and control. The large surface area of the Meaty Paws promotes relaxed hand grip, reducing hand fatigue. Fine ribbing on the surface provides ample friction without adding unwanted squish.
While the star-shaped thumb pad may not be the most ergonomic for gloveless riding, riders who primarily use gloves will find it adequate. The flanges, while potentially interfering with some controls, can be trimmed if necessary. The primary drawback of the Meaty Paws is their extended length, which may crowd cockpit setups, particularly with modern Shimano brake levers. However, with SRAM brakes, the length becomes less of an issue.
Pros:
- Thick and firm, offering a direct feel without vagueness
- Simple design for customizable setup
- Integrated clamp for durability
- Shallow texture provides grip without excessive squish
Cons:
- Extended length may interfere with some cockpit setups
- Shallow texture may exhibit faster wear
- Flange may require trimming for control clearance
Who Won?
Determining a single “winner” is challenging, as the best mountain bike grips are subjective and depend on individual rider preferences and riding styles. However, three grips emerged as standouts in this comprehensive test. It’s important to reiterate that all grips in this review are high-quality options, and those not highlighted as top picks may still be ideal for specific riders.
For riders with average-sized hands seeking oversized comfort, the Ergon GA2 Fat, PNW Loam XL, ODI Reflex XL, and Race Face Chester are excellent choices. The Peaty’s Monarchs and OneUp Thick Grips offer exceptional security and tactile grip, while the Deity Supracush, ODI Rogue, and Oury V2 provide classic grip feels with varying levels of vibration damping squirm.
Ultimately, the top picks for our tester are the Deity Megattack, Wolf Tooth Fat Paw Lock-Ons, and Sensus Meaty Paws. The Deity Megattack stands out as the go-to grip for multi-day rides and technical singletrack, prioritizing comfort and vibration absorption. The Wolf Tooth Fat Paw Lock-Ons excel for flat-bar touring and rigid bike riding, offering maximum plushness and bar feel reduction. Finally, the Sensus Meaty Paws remain a favorite for mountain biking, providing a firmer, more direct feel that enhances control and responsiveness, albeit with a slight trade-off in ultimate comfort compared to the Deity options. The search for the best mountain bike grips is ongoing, and the ever-expanding market promises even more innovative options in the future.
