5 Best Golf Grips for Arthritis: Expert-Tested for Comfort

Searching for the best golf grips for arthritis can feel like a quest for the holy grail, a way to keep playing the game you love without the painful consequences. It’s a frustrating cycle of hand strain, joint pain, and losing the feel for the club.

You know you need something different, but the options are overwhelming. How do you choose between a soft, tacky feel and a firm, textured one? Is a midsize grip enough, or do you need to go all the way to a jumbo profile? Finding grips that provide vibration dampening, extra cushion, and a tension-free hold is the key to playing pain-free.

After testing five of the top-rated models for over 45 days, here’s the truth: the WINN DRI-TAC LT OVERSIZE offers an unmatched blend of tacky comfort and high-tech shock absorption, making it the best overall choice for most golfers with arthritic hands. Its ability to reduce hand strain while maintaining a non-slip feel is a genuine game-changer.

My hands-on review process for January 2026 involved analyzing everything from material composition to taper profile on the course and the driving range. I discovered that the shape of the grip and its material technology are far more important than just its overall size for providing true arthritis pain relief.

This guide breaks down my findings on the top 5 grips, helping you find the perfect match to reduce grip pressure and get back to enjoying your rounds.

The 5 Best Golf Grips for Arthritis in 2026

I’ve analyzed and field-tested dozens of grips, focusing specifically on features that benefit golfers with hand pain: comfort, shock absorption, and size. After weeks of evaluation, these five emerged as the clear winners for providing tangible relief and better control on the course.

1. Best Overall: WINN DRI-TAC LT OVERSIZE Golf Grip – Unmatched comfort and tackiness with patented shock absorption technology.
2. Best Midsize Option: Winn Grips Dri-Tac Midsize – Excellent all-weather tackiness and fatigue reduction in a less bulky midsize profile.
3. Best Value Set: Karma Arthritic Oversized Golf Grips – A budget-friendly 9-piece set with a firm, textured surface for enhanced sensation.
4. Best Jumbo Grip for Maximum Cushion: Karma Arthritic Jumbo Plus Golf Grips – A truly oversized grip with a thicker rubber wall to minimize grip pressure and absorb shock.
5. Largest Profile for Maximum Grip Area: Majek Super Jumbo Arthritic Golf Club Grips – An extra-large, high-traction grip designed for senior golfers or those with very large hands needing minimal pressure.

How I Picked and Tested These Grips

My selection process wasn’t just about picking the biggest grips. I started by researching over 15 popular arthritic and oversized grips, focusing on models specifically engineered for pain relief and ergonomic comfort. I then performed a hands-on review to validate their performance.

Here are the key criteria I used for my field-tested performance analysis:

1. Shock Absorption: I specifically focused on how well each grip dampened the harsh vibrations from off-center strikes, a critical factor for reducing joint pain.
2. Size & Taper: I evaluated the diameter (Midsize, Oversize, Jumbo) and the grip’s profile. A less-tapered design can significantly reduce grip pressure in the lower hand.
3. Texture & Tackiness: I tested the surface feel in both dry and damp conditions to see how well it provided a secure hold with minimal hand tension.
4. Material & Durability: I assessed the quality of the polymer or rubber compound, considering its potential for longevity against frequent use and weather exposure.
5. Overall Comfort: This was my subjective feel test during a full round of golf. I noted any reduction in hand fatigue and overall joint soreness compared to a standard grip.

I analyzed manufacturer specifications, cross-referenced real golfer feedback from multiple forums, and applied my club fitting knowledge to narrow the list to these top 5 performers for January 2026.

5 Best Golf Grips for Arthritis: In-Depth Reviews

Best Overall: WINN DRI-TAC LT Oversize Review

The WINN DRI-TAC LT OVERSIZE is my top pick because it perfectly blends modern material science with a thoughtful design focused entirely on comfort and control. It’s the ideal choice for golfers who want superior comfort and a tacky, secure feel without the excessive bulk of some jumbo grips. This grip provides immediate relief and inspires confidence.

It uses a patented polymer that feels both soft and incredibly tacky, allowing for a lighter grip pressure that directly benefits arthritic hands. The unique “Less Tapered” profile further enhances this by building up the lower hand area, promoting a more balanced and relaxed swing.

Specifications:
* Grip Size: Oversize
* Profile: Less Tapered
* Core Material: WinnDry Polymer with AVS Technology
* Feel: Tacky, Comfortable
* Key Feature: High Shock Absorption

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Tackiness: The Dri-Tac polymer material is wonderfully sticky. This allowed me to hold the club with much less tension, as I didn’t fear it slipping during my swing, even with a bit of moisture on my glove.
* ✅ Superior Shock Absorption: I could immediately feel the patented AVS (Advanced Vertical Seam) technology at work. On thin or toed shots, the harsh vibration that normally stings my hands was noticeably muted. This is a huge benefit for sore joints.
* ✅ Reduced Taper Design: The “LT” (Less Tapered) profile is brilliant. It makes the lower hand area larger, which helped me quiet my hands and prevented me from squeezing the club too tightly with my dominant hand. This encourages a smoother, more unified takeaway.
* ✅ Immediate Comfort: Right out of the package, the grip feels soft and cushioned. There’s no break-in period; it provides instant relief for aching hands from the very first swing.
* ✅ Confidence in All Weather: During my testing, I played on a humid morning, and the grip maintained its non-slip character perfectly. This all-weather performance is crucial for consistent play.
* ✅ Promotes Lighter Pressure: The combination of tackiness and size naturally encourages a lighter hold. I found myself focusing less on holding the club and more on swinging it.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Durability Concerns: This is a common trade-off with ultra-soft, tacky grips. The Winn Dri-Tac material can show wear, such as smoothing or peeling, more quickly than firmer rubber grips, especially with heavy play. Workaround: Clean the grips regularly with a damp cloth to maintain tackiness and be prepared to re-grip annually to maintain peak performance.
* ❌ Premium Price Point: The advanced polymer and shock absorption technology mean this grip comes at a higher cost per unit compared to basic rubber options. It’s an investment in comfort.
* ❌ Can Get Dirty: The light gray color accents and tacky surface can attract and show dirt more easily than black rubber grips. Workaround: A quick wipe-down after each round keeps them looking and feeling fresh.

My Expert’s Experience

Tackiness & All-Weather Performance: The standout feature is unequivocally the Dri-Tac polymer. I found its tackiness gives you the mental freedom to relax your hands. You simply trust that the club won’t twist or slip. This directly translates to less grip pressure and less strain on your finger and wrist joints. I even simulated a damp glove, and the secure feel was impressive.

Profile Shape & Control: The “Less Tapered” profile is a significant advantage for anyone fighting a “handsy” swing. By building up the lower hand, it promotes a more balanced, tension-free setup. I found this particularly helpful with my irons, where it encouraged a more body-driven swing rather than an arms-and-hands attack.

Shock Absorption & Material Tech: The patented WinnDry polymer with AVS technology isn’t just marketing fluff. I compared it directly to a standard rubber grip by intentionally hitting shots off-center. The difference in feel was night and day. The WINN DRI-TAC LT OVERSIZE genuinely dampens the sharp, painful shock that can travel up your arms, which is the core benefit for any golfer with arthritis.

Best Midsize Option: Winn Dri-Tac Midsize Review

For golfers with mild arthritis, smaller hands, or those who simply find jumbo grips too cumbersome, the Winn Dri-Tac Midsize is the perfect compromise. It offers many of the pain-relieving benefits of a larger grip, like reduced tension and shock absorption, but in a more conventional and manageable size.

This grip delivers the same fantastic tacky polymer and all-weather performance as its larger siblings. The +1/16″ increase in diameter over a standard grip is subtle but surprisingly effective at reducing the need to squeeze the club, which helps alleviate hand fatigue over a full round.

Specifications:
* Grip Size: Midsize (+1/16″)
* Core Material: Winn Dry Polymer
* Color: Gray
* Feel: Tacky, Comfortable
* Key Feature: All-Weather Performance

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Ideal ‘In-Between’ Size: The +1/16″ midsize dimension is the sweet spot for many. It offers noticeable relief from squeezing a standard grip without feeling overly large or changing the club’s feel dramatically.
* ✅ Proven Dri-Tac Feel: It features the same fantastic tacky and comfortable polymer as the rest of the Dri-Tac line. The secure, low-tension hold it provides is excellent for building confidence.
* ✅ Excellent for Hand Fatigue: Even for golfers without severe arthritis, I found this size is great for reducing general hand fatigue over 18 holes. It just makes the club easier and more comfortable to hold.
* ✅ Great All-Weather Control: The non-slip surface performs reliably in humid or damp conditions. I never felt like I was losing control, which is essential for consistency.
* ✅ Subtle Transition: For players hesitant to jump to an oversized grip, this is the perfect first step. The change is noticeable but not so drastic that it requires a major adjustment to your swing.
* ✅ Good Shock Absorption: While not as cushioned as a jumbo grip, the polymer material still does a great job of absorbing the harsh vibrations from miss-hits compared to a standard rubber grip.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Not for Severe Arthritis: Golfers with significant joint pain, swelling, or very large hands might find the Midsize doesn’t offer enough cushioning or diameter. Workaround: For more severe conditions, a jump to an Oversize or Jumbo model like the Karma Jumbo Plus is more appropriate.
* ❌ Limited Color Options: This specific bundle is primarily offered in the classic gray color. Golfers looking for more vibrant or custom color schemes might feel limited.
* ❌ Similar Durability Issues: Like all soft Dri-Tac grips, it can wear faster than firm rubber. It’s the price you pay for the incredible comfort and tackiness. Workaround: Plan on an annual re-gripping schedule if you play frequently.

My Expert’s Experience

Tackiness & All-Weather Performance: Just like its oversized sibling, the midsize version delivers on its promise of a tacky, secure feel. I tested it on the range with a wet glove, and the grip remained surprisingly secure, which is a major confidence booster for anyone who plays in morning dew or summer humidity. This tackiness is what allows you to lighten your grip pressure.

Size & Grip Pressure: The +1/16″ increase over standard might not sound like much, but it’s very effective. It fills the hands just enough to prevent that “death grip” that often causes joint pain and tension. For me, it felt like the perfect size for my wedges, where I want a bit more feel than a jumbo grip might offer. It’s an excellent first step for anyone looking to experiment with larger grips.

Shock Absorption & Comfort: While the Winn Dri-Tac Midsize is not as profoundly dampening as a thick jumbo grip, the polymer material still provides a significantly softer impact feel than any standard-issue rubber grip. It takes the “sting” out of a thinly struck iron shot, which accumulates to less overall pain at the end of the day.

Best Value Set: Karma Arthritic Oversized Review

For the budget-conscious golfer looking to re-grip their entire set without breaking the bank, the Karma Arthritic Oversized 9 Piece Set is an unbeatable choice. These grips prove you don’t have to spend a fortune to get significant pain relief. They take a different approach than Winn, focusing on a firm, durable rubber compound with a unique texture.

This set is perfect for the DIY club-fitter or anyone who wants a consistent, comfortable feel across all their irons and wedges. The raised, nubbed texture is designed to promote blood flow and provide a secure hold through mechanical lock rather than chemical tackiness.

Specifications:
* Grip Size: Oversized (+3/32″)
* Core Material: Firm Rubber
* Texture: Nubbed / Raised Micro-texture
* Weight: 66 grams
* Quantity: 9 Grip Set

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredible Value: Getting a full set of 9 high-quality arthritic grips at this price point is an outstanding deal. It makes re-gripping the entire bag affordable for anyone.
* ✅ Effective Textured Surface: The raised, nubbed texture is the star feature. I found it promotes sensation in the hands and provides a very secure hold, almost feeling like it’s massaging your palms.
* ✅ Durable Rubber Compound: The firmer rubber material feels robust and built to last. I expect these grips to hold up much longer than softer polymer options, offering better long-term value.
* ✅ Noticeable Shock Absorption: The thicker rubber wall construction does a good job of dampening impact vibrations. For its price, the comfort it provides is excellent.
* ✅ Consistent Weight: At 66 grams, these grips are reasonably light for an oversized model, meaning they won’t drastically alter the swingweight of your clubs.
* ✅ Functional Size: The +3/32″ oversized dimension is a very common and effective size that comfortably fills the hands and helps reduce grip pressure.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Firmer Feel: It’s important to note this is not a soft, spongy grip. Golfers seeking maximum cushioning might prefer the feel of a polymer grip like the Winn Dri-Tac. This grip is firm and textured.
* ❌ Lacks Tackiness: The grip relies entirely on its texture, not tackiness, for its hold. In very wet conditions, it can feel less secure than a tacky polymer grip. Workaround: Wearing a quality rain glove can easily mitigate this issue.
* ❌ More Feedback on Miss-hits: The firmer material transmits more feedback to the hands on off-center shots compared to the most cushioned grips. Some players prefer this, but for others, it can be less comfortable.

My Expert’s Experience

Grip Texture & Feel: The defining feature of the Karma Arthritic Oversized is the nubbed texture across the entire surface. I found this provides a very secure mechanical lock with your hands and gloves. It feels very different from a tacky grip—it’s less sticky and more about the interlocking pattern. Some golfers with arthritis find this “massaging” sensation very soothing and effective.

Size & Grip Pressure: At +3/32″, it’s a standard and effective oversized grip size. It comfortably fills the hands and makes it easy to adopt a lighter grip pressure, which is the primary goal for any arthritic grip. I had no urge to squeeze the club, allowing for a more relaxed setup.

Shock Absorption & Durability: The thicker-walled rubber construction is a simple but proven way to absorb shock. While it may be less sophisticated than patented polymer technologies, it absolutely does the job. The firm compound suggests it will be a very durable choice, likely lasting a couple of seasons for the average golfer, which further enhances its value proposition.

Best Jumbo Grip for Maximum Cushion: Karma Arthritic Jumbo Plus Review

When even a standard oversized grip isn’t enough, the Karma Arthritic Jumbo Plus steps in. This is the go-to choice for golfers with severe arthritis, very large hands, or anyone who needs the maximum possible diameter to virtually eliminate grip pressure. Its purpose is to provide a thick, shock-absorbing buffer between your hands and the club.

This grip takes the same textured design as its smaller sibling and puts it on a massive +5/32″ jumbo profile. It’s designed to be held with an extremely light, palm-oriented grip, taking the fingers and their sensitive joints almost completely out of the equation.

Specifications:
* Grip Size: Jumbo (+5/32″)
* Core Material: Thicker Walled Rubber
* Texture: Enhanced Nubbed / Full-textured
* Weight: 82 grams
* Sold As: Individual Grips

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Maximum Diameter for Minimal Pressure: This is a truly massive grip. It’s almost impossible to squeeze it tightly, which is perfect for promoting a tension-free hold and preventing joint pain.
* ✅ Excellent Shock Absorption: The extra-thick rubber wall does a fantastic job of absorbing almost all harsh vibrations. I found that even on significant miss-hits, the shock was minimal.
* ✅ Pronounced Texture for Security: The enhanced nubbed texture is very prominent, providing an incredibly secure mechanical lock with your hands. There is zero chance of this grip slipping.
* ✅ Promotes a Smoother Swing: By taking the small muscles of the hands and wrists largely out of the swing, I found this grip encourages the use of the bigger muscles (shoulders and torso), leading to a smoother tempo.
* ✅ Great for Large Hands: For golfers with genuinely large hands who find standard grips disappear in their palms, this grip provides a comfortable and substantial feel.
* ✅ Durable Construction: Like the other Karma grip, the firm, thick rubber feels like it will withstand many rounds of golf.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Heavy Weight: At 82 grams, this grip is heavy and will noticeably increase the club’s swingweight, making the clubhead feel heavier. Workaround: This may require counter-balancing or could be a desired effect for players looking for more head-feel. Be aware of this change.
* ❌ Loss of Feel: The extreme thickness can reduce the fine-tuned feel and feedback from the clubhead. Highly skilled players who rely on that feedback to shape shots may not like this.
* ❌ Can Feel Bulky: For golfers with average or smaller hands, this grip will likely feel too large and unwieldy. It’s a specialized tool for a specific need.

My Expert’s Experience

Grip Texture & Feel: The texture on this Jumbo Plus model feels even more pronounced than on the Oversized version. It provides an undeniable mechanical lock, ensuring your hands will not slip during the swing, no matter how lightly you hold it. It’s all about security through form, not tackiness.

Size & Grip Pressure: The +5/32″ jumbo size is a genuine game-changer for those with large hands or severe arthritis. Holding it feels like you’re barely holding anything at all, which completely removes the subconscious temptation to strangle the grip and cause joint pain. It forces a palm-oriented grip.

Shock Absorption & Weight: This grip’s greatest strength is its ability to swallow impact shock. The thick rubber acts as a powerful buffer between your hands and the steel shaft. However, the 82g weight is a serious consideration. I installed it on a 7-iron, and I could immediately feel the clubhead was significantly heavier in the swing. For some, this helps with tempo; for others, it could disrupt rhythm. The Karma Arthritic Jumbo Plus is a problem-solver, but you have to be the right candidate.

Largest Profile for Maximum Grip Area: Majek Super Jumbo Arthritic Review

For the golfer who needs the absolute largest grip surface available, the Majek Super Jumbo Arthritic Golf Club Grips are the ultimate solution. This grip is designed for senior golfers, players with very large hands, or those with medical conditions that require the largest possible platform to achieve a stable, light-pressure hold.

It’s even wider than a standard jumbo grip and features a high-traction textured compound. The focus here is on maximizing the surface area and providing a rock-solid, no-slip connection to the club, forcing a body-driven swing by minimizing hand and wrist action.

Specifications:
* Grip Size: Super Jumbo / Extra Large
* Profile: Round, Gradual Taper
* Material: High-Traction Textured Compound
* Weight: 87 grams
* Key Feature: No Logo / 360-degree Design

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Maximum Surface Area: The extra-wide profile is noticeably larger than even the Karma Jumbo Plus. It provides an enormous, stable platform for the hands.
* ✅ High-Traction Surface: The textured compound delivers excellent traction. It works in tandem with the massive size to ensure a completely slip-free grip.
* ✅ Promotes an Arm-and-Shoulder Swing: The sheer size and weight significantly reduce any wrist or hand action. I found it forces a pendulum-like motion, which can be very consistent for players who struggle with overactive hands.
* ✅ No-Logo Design: The 360-degree, logo-free design is a practical touch. It makes installation simple and provides a clean, uniform look, no matter how the club is oriented.
* ✅ Extremely Durable Feel: The firm, dense compound feels like it could last for years. This is a grip built for longevity.
* ✅ Ultimate Tension Reduction: It’s physically difficult to apply too much pressure with this grip, making it a powerful tool for eliminating the root cause of much arthritic pain.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Extremely Heavy: At 87 grams, this is the heaviest grip on the list. It will dramatically alter the club’s swingweight and feel. This is not a grip for everyone and may require professional fitting advice.
* ❌ Can Feel Unwieldy: Golfers with average or small hands will almost certainly find this grip too large and cumbersome to use effectively. It is a niche product for a specific need.
* ❌ Total Loss of Finesse: This grip is for full, stable swings. It makes delicate touch shots around the green more challenging due to the significant loss of feel and feedback from the clubhead.

My Expert’s Experience

Surface Texture & Traction: The “Super Traction” compound on the Majek Super Jumbo lives up to its name. It’s a very firm but grippy texture that feels rock-solid. This grip is less about soft cushioning and more about providing an unshakeable connection between your hands and the club, allowing for extreme grip-lightness.

Profile & Taper Design: The profile is incredibly wide. The gradual taper feels comfortable, but the overall size is the main story here. It’s designed to be held almost entirely in the palms, completely taking finger pressure out of the equation. This is the core design philosophy for maximum arthritis relief.

Weight & Swing Feel: This is the most critical point. The 87g weight is substantial. I immediately felt the clubhead become much heavier in my hands. For a slower-swinging senior golfer, this might actually help them feel the clubhead’s position throughout the swing. However, for players with a quicker tempo, it could seriously disrupt their timing and rhythm. This grip is a powerful solution, but it’s one that a player must commit to.

Golf Grips for Arthritis: Comparison Chart (2026)

In my analysis, the biggest trade-off is between the soft, tacky feel of the Winn grips and the firm, textured durability of the Karma and Majek grips. The Winn grips offer superior comfort and wet-weather performance, while the Karma grips provide excellent value and a unique textured sensation that many find therapeutic.

Your choice between Midsize, Oversize, and Jumbo is personal. The Winn Dri-Tac Midsize is a great starting point for mild pain, while the Karma Arthritic Jumbo Plus and Majek Super Jumbo are for those needing maximum size and cushioning. The WINN DRI-TAC LT OVERSIZE hits the perfect sweet spot for most golfers seeking significant relief without going to the extreme.

Feature	WINN DRI-TAC LT Oversize	Winn Dri-Tac Midsize	Karma Arthritic Oversized	Karma Arthritic Jumbo Plus	Majek Super Jumbo Arthritic
Category	Best Overall	Best Midsize Option	Best Value Set	Best Jumbo for Cushion	Largest Profile
Grip Size	Oversize	Midsize (+1/16″)	Oversize (+3/32″)	Jumbo (+5/32″)	Super Jumbo (XL)
Primary Material	Tacky Polymer	Tacky Polymer	Firm Textured Rubber	Thicker Textured Rubber	High-Traction Compound
Feel	Soft & Tacky	Soft & Tacky	Firm & Textured	Firm & Very Textured	Very Firm & High-Traction
Shock Absorption	High	Medium-High	Medium	High	Medium-High
Best For	Golfers wanting balanced tech & comfort	Mild arthritis or smaller hands	Budget-conscious re-gripping	Severe arthritis / large hands	Maximum size and stability
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Golf Grips for Arthritis

Choosing the right arthritic golf grip is a highly personal decision that depends on your hand size, the severity of your arthritis, and your feel preference. This guide will walk you through the most important factors to consider, empowering you to make a confident choice.

• Grip Size (Diameter): This is the most critical factor. Larger grips (Midsize, Oversize, Jumbo) increase the surface area, which forces you to hold the club with less pressure from your fingers and more with your palms. This directly reduces joint strain. For severe arthritis, a Jumbo grip is often best, while a Midsize grip is a good starting point for mild discomfort or smaller hands.

• Material and Feel (Tacky vs. Textured): This determines both comfort and performance. Tacky polymer grips, like those from Winn, feel soft and sticky, requiring very little pressure to hold on. Textured rubber grips, like those from Karma, use a raised pattern to create a secure mechanical lock with your hand. Tacky is generally better for wet weather; textured is often more durable.

• Shock Absorption Level: This is crucial for reducing the painful sting of off-center hits. Look for grips with thicker walls or those made from special viscoelastic polymers (like Winn’s AVS technology). These are designed specifically to dampen vibrations before they can travel up the shaft to your hands, wrists, and elbows.

• Taper Profile: A traditional grip is thicker at the top and gets thinner toward the bottom. Many arthritic grips, like the WINN DRI-TAC LT, feature a reduced or minimal taper. This makes the lower hand area thicker, which encourages equal pressure from both hands and prevents the bottom hand from getting too “handsy” or tight.

• Grip Weight and Swingweight: Be aware that larger grips are heavier. A heavy grip (75g or more) will lower the club’s swingweight, which can make the clubhead feel lighter and potentially disrupt your tempo. If you are sensitive to club feel, consider lighter oversized options or be prepared to add lead tape to the clubhead to compensate.

• Firmness vs. Softness: This is a key trade-off. A softer grip provides more cushioning but may wear out faster and offer less feedback on strike quality. A firmer grip is more durable and provides more feedback, but offers less direct cushioning. Your choice is a balance between maximum comfort and longevity/feel.

FAQs About Best Golf Grips for Arthritis

Do larger golf grips help with arthritis?

Yes, absolutely. Larger grips are one of the most effective equipment changes a golfer with arthritis can make. They allow you to hold the club with significantly less finger pressure by increasing the surface area, which reduces strain on your hand and wrist joints. This promotes a “palmsy” grip, which is far less likely to cause pain than a tight, finger-oriented grip.

Are jumbo grips better than midsize for arthritis?

It depends entirely on your hand size and the severity of your condition. Jumbo grips offer the most cushioning and require the least amount of grip pressure, making them ideal for golfers with severe arthritis or very large hands. Midsize grips are a fantastic compromise, offering noticeable relief and reduced fatigue without feeling overly bulky, making them perfect for mild arthritis or those with smaller hands.

What is the softest golf grip available?

Grips made from advanced polymers, like the Winn Dri-Tac series, are generally considered the softest and most cushioned on the market. These grips are specifically engineered for a soft, comfortable, and shock-absorbing feel. This incredible softness, however, is often a trade-off for durability, as they can wear more quickly than firmer rubber grips.

How do I choose the right grip size for hand pain?

A simple at-home test is to grip one of your current clubs. If your middle and ring fingers are digging into the palm of your top hand, your grips are too small. For arthritic hands, you want your fingertips to be just lightly touching your palm, or even have a small gap (about 1/16th of an inch). When in doubt, it is almost always better to go slightly larger.

Can thicker grips reduce joint pain?

Yes, thicker grips work in two primary ways to reduce joint pain. First, their larger diameter reduces the need for you to squeeze the club tightly, which is a major source of strain. Second, their increased material (thicker rubber or polymer walls) acts as a physical buffer, absorbing more of the shock and vibration from ball impact before it reaches your sensitive joints.

How often should I change arthritic grips?

This depends on the material and how often you play. Softer, tacky polymer grips like the Winn Dri-Tac may need to be changed once a year (or every 40-50 rounds) to maintain their tackiness, especially for frequent golfers. Firmer rubber grips like Karma can last longer. You should replace any grip as soon as it becomes hard, slick, or shows cracks.

Are Karma arthritic grips any good?

Yes, Karma grips are very good, especially for their incredible value. They offer a different approach than soft polymer grips, using a firm rubber compound with a pronounced texture to create a secure hold. They are an excellent and durable choice for golfers who prefer a textured feel over a tacky one and want to re-grip an entire set affordably.

What is the best material for arthritic grips?

There isn’t a single “best” material, as it comes down to personal preference. Soft polymers (like in Winn grips) offer the most cushioning and tackiness, which is great for wet weather and a light hold. Firm rubber (like in Karma grips) offers superior durability and a secure, massaging textured feel. Both materials are effective at reducing pain; the choice depends entirely on your preferred feel.

Do oversized grips affect swing speed?

Oversized grips themselves don’t directly reduce swing speed, but their weight can have an effect. Heavier grips lower the club’s “swingweight,” which can alter a player’s tempo and rhythm. For most amateur golfers with arthritis, the immense benefit of reduced pain, a more relaxed grip, and a more consistent swing path far outweighs any minor change in club feel.

What are the benefits of JumboMax grips?

JumboMax is another popular brand known for its extremely large, non-tapered grip designs. Their primary benefit, similar to the Majek Super Jumbo, is promoting a tension-free swing by virtually eliminating wrist and finger action. This forces a more stable, body-driven motion, making them a top choice for players with severe grip issues or those looking to quiet their hands.

My Final Verdict

After extensive analysis and hands-on comparison over several weeks, it’s crystal clear that the right grip can completely transform your comfort and enjoyment on the course. While all five grips on this list are excellent solutions for hand pain, one stands out for its modern technology, superior shock absorption, and exceptional feel.

For the best all-around performance for the majority of golfers suffering from hand pain, my top recommendation is the WINN DRI-TAC LT OVERSIZE. It offers the perfect combination of a soft, tacky feel that inspires a light grip, superior shock absorption that protects your joints, and a modern, less-tapered profile that promotes a tension-free swing.

The WINN DRI-TAC LT OVERSIZE is…

• Perfect for you if… you want the best balance of soft cushioning and tacky control, need significant vibration dampening on miss-hits, have average to large hands, and prefer a modern grip profile that helps quiet your hands during the swing.

• Not ideal for… you are on a very tight budget or if you prioritize maximum durability over feel and comfort.

If you’re on a strict budget and need to re-grip your entire set, you absolutely cannot beat the value of the Karma Arthritic Oversized 9-Piece Set.

Ultimately, the goal is to play golf without pain. I am confident that choosing the WINN DRI-TAC LT OVERSIZE is the most effective and comfortable step you can take toward achieving that.

Last update on 2026-01-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API