ProGryp Paw Sponge Hand Grips
Made of thick foam rubber, ProGryp hand grips combine thick cushioning with a no-slip surface so you can lift weights comfortably and safely without gloves.
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Sometimes the smallest things make us happy. Like these little spongy things we have used to cushion our hands to lift weights.
Made of half-inch-thick, high-density foam rubber, these hand grips cushion extremely well for most moderate weight-lifting and have an extremely grippy, sticky surface. We found that the surface was so sticky that between sets we could actually set weights down on a slanted stair rail nearby and they’d stay put.
They aren’t expensive and they really do the trick – and could be especially well suited for some people, like some women or beginning weight-lifters, who might feel self-conscious wearing gloves. Or, these grips could be a good choice if it’s particularly hot and gloves just aren’t feeling so good on sweaty hands. The Paw Sponge could also provide extra cushion for really heavy lifting (not as if our team is at that point …yet). Plus, they compress down to the bar while still providing cushioning so there is a secure grip.
The grips are about 4.5 inches by 5.5 inches and slightly concave on each of the longer sides. One of the shorter sides has three little inward indentations shaped like a finger grip, intended we think to accommodate the three middle fingers (not the little finger or thumb); the opposite shorter side has one indentation for the thumb. They do fit the palm and fingers well – if your hands are large enough. Our small-handed tester found she used the grip turned 90 degrees with the longer sides at fingers and thumb. It worked find without the grip indentations, but how much effort would it take to put them there too?
According to the company, the grips absorb and release moisture quickly, thus providing better gripping and a more hygienic surface. We do admit that gloves can get kinda funky after a lot of sweaty wear.
We think this inexpensive little grips should be a given for any workout bag or home workout room.
SNEWS® Rating: 4.5 hands clapping (1 to 5 hands clapping possible, with 5 clapping hands representing functional and design perfection)
Suggested retail: $13.99 (although they are often sold for less than $10)
For more information:www.progryp.com (*note: web site is being reconstructed)
