Having the right pole grip aid can make a difference in safety, comfort, and ease of practice. But beyond effectiveness, have you considered sustainability? When choosing a grip, I prioritize options made from eco-friendly materials like natural rubber or biodegradable alternatives. Brands that embrace low-waste packaging or cruelty-free practices also catch my attention.
Of course, grip performance is the most crucial factor- the product must maintain traction, suit your climate, and work for your skin type. But I challenge you to consider one more thing: sustainability. Here is what I considered:
Types of Pole Grip Aids
There are different types of grip aids, each serving distinct needs:
Chalk-based grips: Typically available in powder or block form, these help absorb sweat and enhance friction.
Liquid grips: A liquid formula applied to your hands that dries to form a tacky surface, improving grip.
Some grip products contain ingredients that may not be the cleanest or most eco-friendly. Here’s a breakdown of common ingredients and their sustainable alternatives:
| Ingredient | More Eco-Friendly Alternative |
| Talc | Corn Starth or Arrowroot Powder |
| Aluminum | Plant based emulsifiers (e.g. coconut oil, shea butter) |
| Parabens | Rosemary extract, Vitamen E, etc |
| Petroleum | Mineral Oil |
My Sustainable Grip Choice
After much consideration, I went with Monkey Hands Grip. Is it the most sustainable option? Not exactly. Enviro Grip has strong advantages, including biodegradable packaging and ultra-clean ingredients. However, Monkey Hands does use PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) plastic, which is one of the best options if plastic is necessary (you might remember this from my toilet paper blog!).
If I had my way, Monkey Hands Grip would come in an aluminum tube to make recycling easier. But my decision ultimately came down to effectiveness. I’ve used Monkey Hands before and know it works. A little goes a long way, reducing waste over time. Plus, it contains clean ingredients which offers a safe, eco-friendly alternative to traditional grip aid. While Monkey Hands Grip doesn’t explicitly market itself as a sustainability-first product, it’s cruelty-free, made with non-toxic ingredients, and uses recycled packaging.
Monkey Hands Grip: A Closer Look
Key Ingredients: Magnesium Carbonate, Aloe Vera, Glycerin, Water
Why It’s Clean:
- Free from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances
- Contains moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin, which help maintain skin hydration
- Magnesium carbonate effectively absorbs moisture and enhances grip
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