Why CrossFit Grips Matter
If you're doing pull-ups, muscle-ups, or toes to bar, your hands take a beating. That’s why CrossFit grips are essential. They protect your hands, reduce fatigue, and give you more time on the rig. But to unlock their full potential, you need to know how to use them properly.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to maximise performance, build grip strength, and choose the best grips for your CrossFit training.
1. Use the Correct Grip Technique
Grips are more than just protection — they’re a performance enhancer. Here’s how to use them properly:
- Let the grips take the load: Keep the material over the bar to create a hook. This reduces strain on your forearms and helps you last longer in workouts.
- Avoid over-gripping: Trust the grip to hold your weight. Over-gripping leads to fatigue and blisters.
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Choose the right grip for your setup:
- UltraGrip+ V2 – Best grips for smooth or shiny bars
- HyperGrip+ V2 – Ideal for rough, chalky rigs and building grip strength
Quick tip: Not sure which to choose? Start with UltraGrip+ V2 for all-around performance, and add HyperGrip+ V2 when you're ready to level up.
2. Improve Grip Strength Outside the Rig
Even with the best CrossFit grips, your grip strength needs direct attention:
- Add farmer’s carries, dead hangs, and barbell holds into your weekly training
- Occasionally train without grips to condition your hands and boost raw grip capacity
This combo of training with and without grips builds stronger, more resilient hands.
3. Maintain Your Grips for Long-Term Use
Looking after your grips improves their performance and extends their lifespan:
- Dry flat after each session to preserve the material and texture
- Rotate pairs – use one set for daily training, another for competition or heavy volume
- Store flat and out of damp environments
A fresh pair on comp day can make all the difference.
4. VOLT Athlete Insight: Philroy’s Grip Strategy
Philroy, one of our elite VOLT athletes, adapts his grip strategy based on training and comp setup.
- In training, he uses HyperGrip+ V2 — ideal for chalky, rough bars and a great way to train grip strength
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On comp day, he checks the rig:
- Chalky bar? HyperGrip+ V2 is ready
- Smooth, shiny bar? Nothing beats the UltraGrip+ V2
His advice? Own both. Be ready for any bar, any comp.
Disclaimer: Every athlete is different. If your gym has slick bars, stick with UltraGrip+ V2. But if you find yourself facing rough rigs or heading into competition, having both grips in your bag gives you a serious edge.
5. Final Thoughts: Train Smart, Grip Smarter
To get the most out of your CrossFit grips, focus on:
- Correct technique
- Consistent grip training
- The right grip for the right rig
- Regular grip care
- Being prepared for anything
With the UltraGrip+ V2 and HyperGrip+ V2, you’re covered for every workout, every comp, every rep.