A Guide To CrossFit Hand Protection - Ripped Hands - Victory Grips

The perspective that I am providing on this subject was formulated through my time as a gymnast, CrossFit training, and being a designer of gymnastics grips/hand protection for the sport of CrossFit. There are many activities that can cause your hands to rip. For the sake of specificity, I am focusing on the gymnastics based skills on the bar or rings a person would perform during CrossFit or competitive functional fitness. These skills include kipping and butterfly pull-ups, toes to bar, and bar or ring muscle-ups. My goal is to be as thorough as possible, but there is more opportunity for learning.

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The main cause of rips to your hand is friction. The secondary causes are the condition of the skin of your hands, environmental conditions, and training volume and intensity. Each cause will be addressed and the ways to help prevent rips from happening.

FRICTION & CALLUSES

The definition of friction is "the resistance that one surface or object encounters when moving over another." When your hand is directly on the bar (with no barrier such as grips) your skin is shifting upon a fixed object (the bar) causing damage to the cells of the epidermis because it cannot handle mechanical insult. Depending on the degree of the friction it may result in a wound; aka a rip. As part of your body’s defense mechanism, it will change the cellular structure of the epidermis in order to be more resilient and form a callus. But you do not need to rip first in order to form a callus. Gradual and consistent pressure on the skin over time will form a callus. This is why it is good to progressively work up the volume and intensity to build up your skin. Just like your muscles, the skin of your hands will adapt to imposed demands and get stronger. But if the demands are too great at once it will cause damage and hinder your training. But it doesn’t end there...

THE IMPORTANCE OF MANAGING AND TREATING CALLUSES BEFORE THEY RIP

The calluses can actually cause you to rip too if you do not take care of them. If calluses get too big ridges can form causing a callus susceptible to getting ripped off. This is why it is good to file calluses so that they are smooth. It is important not to file them down too much that you take that callus down to nothing. It is good to have healthy smooth calluses to protect your hands. Moisturizing your hands is also good practice so that the skin of your hands does not become too dry and brittle. Moisturizing is especially important to do so in the winter because the cold weather makes your skin dry and the use of chalk in the gym compounds the issue. On the flip side in humid conditions, your hands can become excessively sweaty making your calluses too soft to be effective. Additionally, with sweaty hands, you will feel the need to over-grip, which makes the likelihood of ripping increase. So there is a balance that you need to maintain throughout the year.

TRAIN SMART: RIPPED HANDS ARE NOT A BADGE OF HONOR

Training volume is another factor to understand when it comes to the potential of ripping. Whenever you have an increase in volume you are imposing greater demands and your skin will have to adapt. In this case, you need to tune into how your hands are feeling in a workout. If they are starting to feel hot you need to start breaking up the reps and chip away with smaller sets. If you are doing large repetition sets of a skill the agitation and heat from the friction will build up and eventually you will rip. Then adding in intensity, such as in a competition setting where your adrenaline is pumping, you will naturally put more contraction into your grip increasing the friction thus the potential rip. In a training scenario if you feel like you are about to rip it best to stop before your skin rips open. Your hands will bounce back much quicker and not hinder your training in the days to come. However, in a competition setting, you need to know when to break up sets or be willing to sacrifice your hands.

Beyond allowing the strength of your skin to build up gradually, paying attention to its condition, and adjusting your approach to a given workout using the best type of grips for you will help prevent rips immensely. Some people call grips straps or gloves, but the correct name is grips. The truly most effective hand protection for the sport of CrossFit or functional fitness is grips designed specifically for these activities based on traditional gymnastics grips. It is important to note that grips are not a guarantee that you will not rip while wearing them, but they will reduce the possibility of ripping to a very significant degree.

GRIPS PROVIDE BENEFITS OF PROTECTION + PERFORMANCE

Grips provide a barrier between your hand and the apparatus, whether it is a pull-up bar or rings, which reduces friction on your hands.That is only one of the ways that grips protect your hands. Performance enhancement is actually the most important purpose of grips.The way grips improve performance is also another way they protect your hands.To keep it simple for this particular conversation grips create an ability to apply more torque on a bar, which also reduces the amount of strength needed to grip the bar and the amount your hand shifts during a particular skill. So to translate you can execute a skill with more efficiency and reduce your potential of ripping at the same time. Although grips will help protect you it is still important to practice good hand care as mentioned above.

In the world of CrossFit, where intensity and versatility reign supreme, the importance of hand protection cannot be overstated. CrossFit workouts encompass a wide range of exercises, from weightlifting to gymnastics, all of which heavily rely on the strength and stability of your hands and wrists. The repetitive gripping, swinging, and barbell work can lead to discomfort, calluses, and even more severe injuries if proper precautions are not taken.

Investing in high-quality CrossFit grips/gloves or hand protection is not merely a luxury but an absolute necessity. These specialized gear options provide a crucial barrier between your hands and the rough, abrasive surfaces you encounter during workouts. They offer protection against friction and prevent blisters, tears, and painful calluses that can hinder your performance and impede progress.

In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving into the best hand grips for CrossFit—from gloves to grips and all the hand protection you need. We’ll break down the must-know features like material, fit, durability, and that all-important grip strength. Whether you’re a seasoned CrossFitter or just getting your feet wet, this guide will help you find the perfect grips. So, keep reading and gear up for your next WOD!

What are CrossFit Grips?

CrossFit grips serve a vital function in the world of fitness, offering numerous benefits to athletes engaging in high-intensity CrossFit workouts. This specialized piece of gear has been designed to enhance grip strength, protect the hands, and prevent injuries commonly associated with intense functional training:

5 Benefits Of Wearing CrossFit Hand Grips

1. Protection Against Calluses & Blisters

CrossFit grips act as a barrier between your hands and the equipment, preventing the formation of painful calluses and blisters. By reducing friction and pressure, they promote hand health and allow for more comfortable workouts.

2. Enhanced Grip & Control During Workouts

With CrossFit grips, you can achieve a more secure grip on bars, rings, and other exercise equipment. This improved grip enhances your control and stability, enabling you to perform movements with confidence and efficiency.

3. Injury Prevention & Joint Stability

The use of CrossFit grips also contributes to injury prevention by providing additional support to your hands and wrists. They help stabilize the joints, reducing the risk of strains, sprains, and overuse injuries commonly associated with high-intensity CrossFit training.

4. Extended Training Sessions & Reduced Hand Fatigue

Grips reduce the amount of strain put on your wrists & forearms. By minimizing this fatigue, CrossFit grips enable you to extend your training sessions. They offer cushioning and shock absorption, reducing hand fatigue allows you to train for longer durations without compromising your performance.

5. Versatility

CrossFit grips are versatile and can be used for a wide range of exercises, including pull-ups, toes-to-bars, muscle-ups, and barbell lifts. They are suitable for both gym workouts and outdoor training, making them a versatile accessory for CrossFit enthusiasts.

Different Types Of CrossFit Hand Grips Available In The Market

There is an array of different hand grips/wraps/gloves available in the market. The most common “grips” are what we refer to below as “palm protectors”. These palm protectors come in 3 different forms – “2-finger holes”, “3-finger holes”, or “no fingers”. Keep scrolling down to learn more about the benefits associated with each option.

1. CrossFit “Grips” AKA Palm Protectors (Most Popular)

Palm protectors are the most popular form of hand protection for CrossFit enthusiasts and are specifically designed to shield the palms from abrasions, tears, and calluses that may occur during vigorous CrossFit training. Crafted with durable materials, these grips provide an extra layer of protection without compromising your grip strength. Palm protectors often feature a fingerless design, allowing for increased tactile sensitivity and dexterity.

Key Features

Should I buy 2-hole, 3-hole, or no-hole CrossFit hand grips?

Just like any purchase, this is going to be personal preference however our recommendation would be to go with a extra-large 3-hole grip. This will allow you to put your hands through the holes if preferred, or could also allow you to use them as a no-hole option:

2. Fingerless Gloves For CrossFit (Suitable for Beginners)

Fingerless gloves are a popular choice for CrossFit beginners seeking a balance between hand protection and maximum mobility. These gloves offer coverage for the palms and back of the hand while leaving the fingers exposed for improved tactile sensation and grip. Designed with reinforced areas, such as the palm and thumb, fingerless gloves provide optimal grip strength and abrasion resistance.

Fingerless gloves will protect beginners hands from ripping on the bar & barbells however they won’t allow you to complete more advanced movements like kipping pull-ups, toes to bar & muscle ups across a long duration of time.

Key Features

3. CrossFit Tape Grip (Strong, but impractical)

Tape grips, also known as gymnastic grips, involve using athletic tape to create a protective layer between the hands and equipment. This DIY approach allows for a highly customizable grip tailored to individual preferences. Tape grips offer a minimalistic design that provides sufficient protection while maintaining a natural feel during movements.

The only downside to tape grip is that it is not reusable. This means that CrossFit athletes have to re-apply this grip every time / day they need to do a workout. As such, it is not a very popular choice considering they may need to tape their hands every day, or even on multiple occasions daily.

Key Features

4. CrossFit Hand Wraps (Least Common Choice)

Whilst hand wraps are a suitable form of hand protection, they are rarely chosen by CrossFit enthusiasts. These flexible strips of fabric are designed to provide enhanced wrist support, stability, and protection during intense workouts. By securely wrapping around the wrists and hands, hand wraps offer a customizable level of tightness to suit individual needs.

Key Features

Factors To Consider Before Buying CrossFit Hand Grips

1. Material & Durability

• Leather

When choosing CrossFit grips, consider the option of leather material. Leather grips are known for their exceptional durability, providing long-lasting performance even during intense workouts. They offer a reliable grip while protecting your hands from friction and abrasion.

• Synthetic Materials

Another viable choice for CrossFit grips is synthetic materials. These grips are often made from high-quality fabrics engineered to withstand rigorous use. Synthetic materials offer a balance between durability, flexibility, and comfort, making them suitable for various CrossFit exercises

• Neoprene

Neoprene grips are also gaining popularity due to their incredible cushioning properties and ability to absorb moisture. These grips provide a comfortable and secure fit, minimizing slippage during workouts. Neoprene is also known for its resistance to wear and tear, ensuring long-term usability.

2. Grip Design & Fit

Full Hand Coverage (3-hole grips)

Grips with full hand coverage provide comprehensive protection to your hands, reducing the risk of developing calluses, blisters, and other hand injuries. They offer a secure grip while allowing for natural finger movement and dexterity.

Partial Hand Coverage (2-hole grips)

If you prefer a balance between protection and tactile sensitivity, grips with partial finger coverage might be the right choice. These grips safeguard vulnerable areas while leaving unnecessary parts of the hand exposed for enhanced grip control and a better feel of the equipment.

Wrist Support

Consider grips that incorporate wrist support, especially if you engage in exercises that put significant stress on your wrists. Wrist-supported grips provide added stability, reducing the likelihood of sprains or strains during intense CrossFit workouts.

3. Sizing & Comfort

Proper Sizing Guidelines

Ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s sizing guidelines to find the ideal fit for your hands. Ill-fitting grips can limit your performance and compromise your comfort and safety during workouts. Measure your hand circumference and refer to the sizing chart provided to select the appropriate size.

Breathability & Moisture-Wicking Properties

Look for grips that offer breathability and moisture-wicking properties. CrossFit workouts can be intense and sweaty, and these features will help keep your hands dry, comfortable, and free from excessive moisture buildup.

4. Ease of Use & Maintenance

Quick-Fastening Systems

Consider grips with user-friendly and efficient fastening systems. Quick-adjust straps or hook-and-loop closures enable easy on and off, allowing you to swiftly transition between exercises without wasting valuable workout time.

Cleaning & Care Instructions

Prioritize grips that come with clear cleaning and care instructions. Regularly cleaning your grips will help maintain their hygiene and prolong their lifespan. Check if the grips are machine washable or if they require specific cleaning methods to ensure their longevity.

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CrossFit Hand Grips For Beginners: Key Considerations

When starting your CrossFit journey, it’s essential to choose grips that support your beginner-level needs. Look for grips that prioritize comfort, ease of use, and provide adequate protection. Here are some key features to consider:

Padding & Protection

Opt for grips with ample padding to shield your hands from abrasions and blisters. Look for materials like neoprene or gel padding that offer a balance of cushioning and durability.

Simplified Design

Seek grips with a straightforward design that is easy to put on and take off. This ensures a hassle-free experience during your workouts, allowing you to focus on form and technique.

Adjustable Straps

Choose grips with adjustable straps that provide a secure fit. This allows you to customize the tightness to your preference and prevents slippage or discomfort.

CrossFit Hand Grips For Advanced Athletes: Key Considerations

As you progress in your CrossFit journey and tackle more challenging workouts, your grip needs may evolve. Consider the following features when selecting grips for intermediate to advanced levels:

Enhanced Grip Support

Look for grips with textured or silicone patterns on the palm area for superior grip traction. This feature becomes crucial when performing movements that require a strong hold, such as pull-ups or kettlebell swings.

Wrist Support

Advanced-level grips often incorporate additional wrist support, helping to stabilize your joints during heavy lifts or complex movements. Seek grips with adjustable wrist straps or integrated wrist wraps to minimize the risk of injuries.

Reinforced Durability

Rigorous training demands durable grips that can withstand repeated use and intense workouts. Consider options made from premium leather or reinforced synthetic materials to ensure longevity and reliability.

Best Hand Grips For CrossFit (Updated)

When it comes to selecting the best CrossFit grips, it’s important to consider grips from reputable brands that have a proven track record in the fitness industry. Additionally, customer reviews and ratings provide valuable insights into the performance and durability of the grips. Here are five top picks for CrossFit grips that combine quality, functionality, and customer satisfaction:

1. Bear KompleX 2 & 3 Hole Hand Grips

Embracing the spirit of innovation and functionality, Bear KompleX has established itself as a frontrunner in the fitness industry, and its 3-Hole Hand Grips exemplify its commitment to excellence. Constructed from a high-grade blend of synthetic materials, these grips feature a cleverly designed three-hole configuration that optimizes finger flexibility and ensures ample ventilation. As one of the best hand grips for CrossFit, they offer unbeatable durability and comfort, making them a top choice for athletes and our top pick for this article.

Brand: Bear KompleX

Material: Synthetic material blend

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2. WOD&DONE Customizable Hand Grips

WOD&DONE has revolutionized the CrossFit grip game with their innovative Customizable Hand Grips, making them a sought-after choice among fitness enthusiasts. These grips allow you to trim them to your preferred size, ensuring a perfect fit. Crafted from a high-quality synthetic material blend, they offer exceptional durability and flexibility.

Brand: WOD&DONE

Material: High-quality synthetic material blend

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3. GymPaws Leather Weightlifting Grips

GymPaws Leather Weightlifting Grips bring a fresh approach to hand protection and grip support. Crafted from genuine leather, these compact and versatile grips sit perfectly in the palm of your hand. Their smart ergonomic design, complete with four finger loops, ensures a snug and comfortable fit, making them both practical and stylish for any workout. Recognized as one of the best hand grips for CrossFit, they provide the durability and performance you need to conquer even the toughest lifts with confidence.

Brand: GymPaws

Material: Genuine leather

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4. JerkFit WODies Hand Grips

Enveloping the entire hand and incorporating strategically placed finger holes and integrated wrist support, they provide an unrivaled shield against the rigors of CrossFit exercises. The inclusion of a thumb hook further enhances positioning and grip, earning JerkFit WODies Hand Grips the trust of athletes who value reduced hand fatigue and amplified grip strength across a broad spectrum of movements.

Brand: JerkFit

Material: Neoprene and leather

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5. Fit Active Fingerless Gloves

The fingerless design ensures maximum dexterity and allows for a natural grip. With an adjustable hook-and-loop closure, they offer a secure and customizable fit. Athletes praise this glove for their comfortable feel, versatility across various exercises, and reliable grip enhancement.

Brand: Fit Active

Material: Synthetic material blend

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Tips For Cleaning & Maintaining Hand Grips

It’s important to note that your grips will start to feel better the more that you wear them. Don’t be alarmed if they feel slippery when you first buy them. Give them time to “mould” to your hands & the respective bars that you are using. Where possible, keep the surface of your grips as clean as possible – this will allow them to mould effetively:

Keep “Grip Surface” clean

CrossFit hand protection, including grips and gloves, can accumulate sweat, dirt, and bacteria during workouts. It is crucial to establish a regular cleaning routine to keep them hygienic and odor-free. In addition to this, it’s important to keep the “grip” surface as clean as possible – this will give your grips the best chance of forming an appropriate mould to the bar.

Hand Wash Only

For most hand protection items, hand washing is the recommended cleaning method. Gently scrub them with mild soap and lukewarm water, paying close attention to the areas that come into contact with sweat and dirt.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Harsh chemicals, such as bleach or strong detergents, can damage the material and compromise the integrity of the hand protection. Stick to mild soap or specialized cleaners designed for sports equipment..

Avoid Direct Sunlight & Extreme Temperatures

Exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures can degrade the material of your hand protection. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent premature deterioration.

Proper Ventilation

Allow your hand protection to breathe by storing them in a well-ventilated area. This helps prevent the buildup of moisture and odors, keeping the gear fresh for your next workout.

Final Words

This ultimate guide is your go-to resource for everything about the best hand grips for CrossFit, gloves, and all kinds of hand protection. From breaking down the different types of grips available to helping you choose the perfect gear for your needs, you now have the know-how to make the right call.

With the right grips in hand, you can crush those tough WODs, push your limits, and hit new PRs with confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned CrossFit athlete or just starting out, having reliable hand protection is key to unlocking your potential and reaching your goals.

So, grab the tips and insights from this guide, gear up with the best hand grips for CrossFit, and take on your fitness journey knowing your hands are protected every step of the way.

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