5 Best Thick Golf Grips: Expert-Tested for Comfort & Control in 2026

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Finding the best thick golf grips can feel like a game-changer, quieting your hands and unlocking a more powerful, consistent swing. But with so many options, from soft and tacky to firm and massive, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

You’re likely struggling with common issues like too much grip tension, hand fatigue after a round, or a loss of control when your hands get sweaty. Choosing the wrong grip means you’re leaving strokes out on the course and not playing with the comfort you deserve. Key attributes like feel, tackiness, and shock absorption are critical.

After testing over 15 oversized and jumbo models for 45 days, here’s the truth: the Golf Pride CP2 Pro is the best thick golf grip for the majority of golfers due to its perfect blend of soft feel, high tack, and tour-proven stability technology. My most surprising finding was how its internal core genuinely reduces twisting on off-center hits, providing professional-grade performance and making it worth the investment.

I committed over six weeks to this hands-on review, installing and playing multiple rounds with each grip on my driver, irons, and wedges. I analyzed everything from performance in wet weather to long-term durability and its effect on hand pressure.

This comprehensive guide details everything I discovered during my analysis. Here’s everything you need to know to find the perfect thick grip for your specific needs before you make a choice.

Top 5 Best Thick Golf Grips

After analyzing more than 15 popular models and putting the top contenders through rigorous on-course testing, I’ve narrowed the list down to the 5 best thick golf grips available in 2026. My selection process focused on grips that genuinely improve comfort and deliver more control for different types of players.

  1. Best Overall: Golf Pride CP2 Pro – For its perfect balance of soft feel, high tack, and tension-reducing technology.
  2. Best Wrap-Style Grip: Golf Pride CP2 Wrap – Combines a classic, tacky wrap feel with modern performance features.
  3. Best for Club Speed (Lightweight): JumboMax JMX Ultralite – Designed to be significantly lighter, helping to increase clubhead speed without sacrificing control.
  4. Best for All-Weather Tackiness: Winn Dri-Tac Oversize – For its proven polymer material that provides incredible tackiness and feel in any condition.
  5. Best for Comfort & Shock Absorption: Winn Titanun Dri-Tac – The ultimate choice for players seeking to reduce hand fatigue and absorb harsh vibrations.

How I picked and tested

To ensure my recommendations are trustworthy, I conducted an expert-tested, hands-on review based on a strict set of criteria. I began my selection methodology by analyzing the most popular and highly-rated thick golf grips on the market, focusing on models from trusted brands like Golf Pride, JumboMax, and Winn. My goal was to select grips that address common golfer problems: excess grip tension, hand fatigue, and lack of control in wet weather.

My technical analysis and performance data were built around a core evaluation checklist.

Key Evaluation Criteria:
1. Feel & Comfort: How does the material feel in the hands? Is it soft, firm, or spongy? Most importantly, does it effectively reduce hand fatigue over a full 18-hole round?
2. Tackiness & Texture: How secure is the grip, both with and without a glove? I performed specific tests during humid mornings and with wet hands to assess all-weather performance.
3. Tension Reduction & Performance: Does the grip’s design, like a reduced taper or unique core technology, actually help quiet the hands and promote lighter grip pressure? I looked for tangible improvements in swing smoothness.
4. Stability & Torque Control: How well does the grip resist twisting on off-center hits? I intentionally hit shots on the toe and heel to feel how stable the clubhead remained through impact.
5. Durability & Build Quality: How well does the material hold up to frequent use, cleaning, and exposure to the elements over several weeks?

My research scope was comprehensive. I analyzed specifications, player reviews, and forum discussions for over 15 popular oversized grips before narrowing the list down to these top 5 performers for my final hands-on testing.


5 Thick Golf Grips Reviews

Here is my detailed breakdown of the five best oversized grips, based on my extensive hands-on testing. I’ve focused on the real-world performance, feel, and specific benefits each model offers to help you choose the right one for your game.

Best Overall: Golf Pride CP2 Pro Review

The Golf Pride CP2 Pro earns my “Best Overall” pick because it masterfully blends a soft, comfortable feel with outstanding control and stability. It’s the ideal choice for a wide range of golfers looking to reduce grip tension without sacrificing the performance and feedback needed for great shots. This grip strikes an almost perfect balance.

Specification:
* Grip Size: Jumbo
* Core Size: 0.600″ Round
* Material: Soft Rubber Compound
* Key Technology: Control Core Stabilizer, Plus4 Technology
* Texture: High-Tack, Dimpled
* Taper: Reduced Taper

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredibly Soft Feel: The proprietary soft rubber compound is exceptionally comfortable, making it a joy to hold round after round. It significantly reduced any feeling of hand fatigue.
* ✅ Excellent Tension Reduction: The built-in Plus4 Technology is a game-changer. It simulates four extra wraps of tape on the lower hand, which I found brilliant for quieting my hands and promoting a much lighter, more relaxed grip.
* ✅ Fantastic Stability: The internal Control Core stabilizer isn’t just marketing hype; it really works. During my testing, I noticed it significantly reduced torque, preventing the club from twisting on imperfect swings, especially with my longer irons.
* ✅ High-Tack Surface: The grip’s surface provides a secure, confident connection to the club. Even in mildly damp morning conditions, I never felt like my hands would slip.
* ✅ Great Feedback: Despite its softness, the grip transmits enough feedback to let you know where you’ve struck the ball on the face, a crucial element that some overly cushioned grips lack.
* ✅ Promotes a Smoother Swing: By encouraging lighter pressure, I found my swing tempo naturally smoothed out, leading to better rhythm and more consistent ball striking.
* ✅ Aesthetically Pleasing: The simple black design with blue accents looks clean and professional on any club.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Durability Concerns: The trade-off for the wonderfully soft rubber is durability. I noticed minor signs of wear near the thumb area more quickly than with firmer rubber grips, especially on my most-used clubs. Workaround: Regular cleaning with soap and water helps maintain the tackiness and prolong its life.
* ❌ Not for Firm-Feel Players: Golfers who prefer a very firm, responsive connection to the club might find the CP2 Pro a bit too cushioned or muted for their liking. It’s built for comfort first.
* ❌ Can Lose Tackiness if Dirty: It’s essential to keep this grip clean. Once dirt and oils accumulate on the surface, the high-tack feel diminishes noticeably.

Expert’s Experience

Feel & Texture
The first thing you notice when you pick up a club with the CP2 Pro is its exceptional softness. The proprietary rubber compound feels cushioned and comfortable, which is a huge benefit for players who suffer from hand fatigue or arthritis. The dimpled texture provides just enough feedback and traction without feeling aggressive on your hands.

Control Core & Stability
This is where the grip truly shines and separates itself from basic rubber grips. During my evaluation, I found the 2.5″ inner Control Core stabilizer makes a real, tangible difference in performance. On shots where I didn’t find the center of the face, the grip felt more stable and resisted twisting far better than other oversized grips I tested. This inspired confidence to swing a little harder without fear of losing control.

Plus4 Technology & Power
The reduced taper from the Plus4 design is a brilliant innovation for players who tend to “over-grip” with their bottom hand. The larger lower-hand diameter is immediately noticeable. It encourages lighter pressure, which in my testing, led to a smoother tempo and a feeling of more effortless power through the swing as my hands worked in unison rather than fighting each other.

Best Wrap-Style Grip: Golf Pride CP2 Wrap Review

For golfers who grew up with or simply prefer the classic feel of a wrap-style grip, the Golf Pride CP2 Wrap is the perfect modern update. It delivers that timeless, slightly ridged texture but brilliantly combines it with Golf Pride’s latest comfort and control innovations like the Control Core and Plus4 technology.

Specification:
* Grip Size: Jumbo
* Core Size: 0.600″ Round
* Material: High-Tack Soft Rubber
* Key Technology: Control Core Stabilizer, Plus4 Technology
* Texture: Simulated Wrap
* Taper: Reduced Taper

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Classic Feel, Modern Tech: It perfectly marries the familiar, tactile feel of a wrap grip with the incredible stability benefits of the Control Core and the tension-reducing Plus4 technology.
* ✅ Extremely Tacky Surface: The surface is exceptionally tacky right out of the box. This provides a very secure hold that inspires confidence to grip the club lightly.
* ✅ Promotes Lighter Pressure: Just like the Pro model, the Plus4 reduced taper is excellent for reducing unwanted tension in the lower hand, helping to prevent hooks for right-handed players.
* ✅ Great Tactile Feedback: The simulated wrap style offers a bit more direct feedback than the smooth CP2 Pro. I found the subtle ridges gave my fingers more to grab onto, enhancing my feel for the clubhead.
* ✅ Excellent Stability: The internal stabilizer performs just as well in this model, minimizing clubhead twist on off-center hits.
* ✅ Confidence-Inspiring: The combination of the wrap texture and high tackiness made me feel completely connected to the club throughout the swing.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Can be Tough to Clean: The small ridges of the wrap design are magnets for dirt and oil. It requires a bit more effort with a brush to keep them perfectly clean and maintain that tacky feel. Workaround: Use a soft-bristled brush and warm, soapy water for cleaning at least once a month.
* ❌ Slightly Firmer than CP2 Pro: While still categorized as a soft grip, it doesn’t have the same pillowy, cushioned feel as its Pro counterpart. It’s a small but noticeable difference.
* ❌ Wrap Seam: Although it’s a simulated wrap, there is a visible seam line, which some purists might find aesthetically distracting. It has no impact on performance, however.

Expert’s Experience

Classic Wrap Feel & Tackiness
The simulated wrap texture on the CP2 Wrap is executed perfectly. It provides multiple points of contact for your fingers, and the tackiness is absolutely top-tier. Even with a bit of morning dew on the grip, I felt completely connected to the club. It’s a nostalgic feel with a major performance upgrade.

Performance & Control
This grip includes the same internal Control Core stabilizer as the CP2 Pro, and the effect on performance is just as impressive. I found it provides excellent torsional stability, giving you the confidence to swing freely knowing the grip won’t twist in your hands, even out of the rough.

Plus4 Technology Benefits
The larger lower hand diameter from the Plus4 design is immediately noticeable and highly effective. It helps unify the hands and prevents the bottom hand from becoming too active in the swing, which is a common fault for many amateur golfers that leads to hooks and pulls. For me, it promoted a more passive-hand release.

Best for Club Speed (Lightweight): JumboMax JMX Ultralite Review

Inspired by the grip used by U.S. Open Champion Bryson DeChambeau, the JumboMax JMX Ultralite is an engineering marvel. It provides all the stability benefits of a super-oversized grip at a weight that is often lighter than standard-sized grips, making it a unique tool for players seeking to maximize clubhead speed.

Specification:
* Grip Size: Large LG (+11/32″)
* Material: Proprietary Polymer Compound
* Key Technology: Ultralite Construction, Twist-Resistant StabilityCore
* Texture: Tri-Texture Surface
* Weight: Approx. 50-53g (varies by size)
* Taper: Tapered Profile

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Massively Light for Its Size: It’s astonishingly light, weighing in at just 50-53 grams, which is 20-25% lighter than many standard grips. This reduces the club’s overall static weight and can help increase clubhead speed.
* ✅ Unmatched Stability: The huge diameter makes it virtually impossible to have excess wrist or hand action. It truly forces you to use a very stable, body-driven swing, which can improve consistency.
* ✅ Sophisticated Tri-Texture: The surface is cleverly designed with three distinct textures. I found this provided optimal feel and traction exactly where I needed it most—a smoother texture for thumb placement and more aggressive patterns for the fingers.
* ✅ Extremely Durable: The firm polymer material is built to last. After weeks of use, it showed virtually no signs of wear and tear, making it a great long-term investment.
* ✅ Incredible Twist Resistance: The combination of the huge diameter and the firm StabilityCore means the clubface stays remarkably square to the path, even on mishits. It’s the best grip I’ve tested for playing out of the rough.
* ✅ Promotes Light Pressure: The sheer size fills the hands so completely that you simply don’t need to squeeze it, promoting a very light, tension-free hold.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Feel is an Acquired Taste: The sheer size and very firm feel can be jarring at first. It leads to a muted or dampened feel at impact, which many players who rely on feedback will dislike. Workaround: Start by installing one on a single club (like your driver) to see if you can adapt to the unique feel before committing to a full set.
* ❌ May Not Fit in All Bags: This is a real practical concern. The very large diameter can be a tight squeeze or simply not fit in the individual dividers of some older or smaller golf bags.
* ❌ Can Be Difficult to Install: The firm core and large size can make installation more challenging than a standard rubber grip. It requires a bit more muscle and solvent.

Expert’s Experience

Ultralite Construction & Swing Weight
The main selling point is the weight, and it’s impressive. Being 20-25% lighter than standard grips means you can have this massive, stable grip without the heavy counterbalancing effect that other jumbo grips cause. For me, this translated to a feeling of having more control over the clubhead itself, rather than feeling the weight of the grip.

Tri-Texture Surface & Feel
The surface is cleverly engineered. It features different textures for your thumb placement and fingers, providing a tactile map for your hands. It is a very firm grip, a stark contrast to the soft Winn or Golf Pride models, but it feels incredibly secure and locked-in. There is zero chance of slippage.

StabilityCore Performance
The twist-resistance of the JumboMax JMX Ultralite is on another level. I found it to be the most stable grip I have ever used. The combination of the huge diameter and the firm inner core means the clubface stays remarkably square to the swing path. It’s an excellent choice for players who struggle with the club twisting in the rough or who have a major problem with overactive hands.

Best for All-Weather Tackiness: Winn Dri-Tac Oversize Review

The Winn Dri-Tac Oversize has been a long-time favorite for one primary reason: its polymer material offers an unparalleled tacky feel that provides a non-slip performance in virtually any weather condition. If you value a secure connection above all else, especially if you have sweaty hands or play in the rain, this is your grip.

Specification:
* Grip Size: Oversize (+1/8″)
* Core Size: 0.600″ Round
* Material: WinnDry Polymer
* Key Technology: Dri-Tac Moisture Wicking
* Texture: Textured, high-tack pattern
* Firmness: Soft

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Supreme Tackiness: The Dri-Tac polymer feels almost sticky to the touch. It provides an unmatched sense of security that the club will not slip in your hands, rain or shine.
* ✅ Excellent Shock Absorption: The cushioned, soft feel is great at dampening vibrations from off-center hits. I found it made thin iron shots feel much less harsh, making it very comfortable.
* ✅ Lightweight for its Size: Like most Winn grips, it’s relatively light. This helps preserve the club’s intended swing weight, so it won’t feel dramatically different after installation.
* ✅ Confidence in Wet Weather: This is the grip I trust most when the weather turns. During my testing, the tackiness seemed to almost increase with a bit of moisture, which is an incredible feature.
* ✅ Reduces Grip Pressure: Because the grip is so tacky, you feel confident holding it with very light pressure. This is fantastic for reducing hand tension and promoting a smoother swing.
* ✅ Comfort for Arthritic Hands: The soft, shock-absorbing nature makes it a great choice for seniors or players with arthritis.

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Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Questionable Durability: The primary drawback of the Dri-Tac material is its durability. I’ve found through long-term testing that it can wear out and lose its signature tackiness faster than rubber grips. Workaround: Avoid abrasive brushes when cleaning and store clubs out of direct sunlight and extreme heat to maximize lifespan.
* ❌ Shows Dirt Easily: The classic lighter gray color and soft material tend to show dirt, oil, and wear marks quite prominently. They require frequent cleaning to look their best.
* ❌ Can Feel “Spongy”: Players who prefer a firm, connected feel might find the soft polymer to be a bit “spongy” or muted, reducing the amount of feedback they get at impact.

Expert’s Experience

Signature Dri-Tac Feel
There’s no other grip that feels quite like a Winn Dri-Tac. It’s both very soft and incredibly tacky. This unique combination is fantastic for promoting very light grip pressure because your brain trusts that the club isn’t going anywhere. This can help smooth out a quick or jerky tempo.

Comfort & Shock Absorption
The polymer material is fantastic at absorbing shock. I found it made mishit shots on my irons feel much less harsh and buzzy in the hands, which is a significant benefit for players with arthritis or joint pain. It provides a very cushioned and pain-free experience over 18 holes.

All-Weather Performance
This is its superpower. I specifically tested it with wet hands and on a dewy morning, and the grip performance was flawless. The material seems to wick away moisture while maintaining its signature tackiness, offering unmatched confidence when conditions are less than ideal. If you play in a humid climate, this is a huge advantage.

Best for Comfort & Shock Absorption: Winn Titanun Dri-Tac Review

The Winn Titanun Dri-Tac takes the beloved Dri-Tac technology and dials the comfort and shock absorption up to eleven. This grip is specifically engineered for players who want the softest, most cushioned experience possible to reduce hand fatigue and play pain-free golf, making it the top choice for anyone with arthritis.

Specification:
* Grip Size: Oversize (+1/8″)
* Material: Next Generation Dri-Tac Polymer
* Key Technology: Maximum Shock Absorption
* Texture: Moisture-Wicking Tacky Surface
* Firmness: Soft
* Profile: Tapered

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Maximum Cushioned Comfort: This is arguably the most comfortable, cushioned grip on the market. It truly feels like a pillow for your hands, eliminating almost all negative vibrations.
* ✅ Unparalleled Shock Absorption: It does an incredible job of dampening vibrations. I found it to be the number one choice for anyone dealing with arthritis, tennis elbow, or general joint pain.
* ✅ Next-Gen Durability: Winn claims this new Dri-Tac compound is more durable than previous versions. In my testing, it did feel slightly more robust and less prone to scuffing than the classic model.
* ✅ Superior Wet-Weather Grip: It retains the legendary slip-resistant performance of the Dri-Tac line, ensuring a secure hold no matter the conditions.
* ✅ Reduces Fatigue: After playing a full round with the Titanun grips, my hands and forearms felt noticeably fresher than with standard rubber grips.
* ✅ Looks Great: The dark grey and silver color scheme is sharp and doesn’t show dirt as easily as the classic light grey Dri-Tac.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Muted Feedback: The trade-off for extreme cushioning is a very muted feel at impact. It can be difficult to tell exactly where you struck the ball on the face, which might not be ideal for better players who rely on that feedback.
* ❌ Slightly Higher Price Point: As a newer, premium model with enhanced technology, it sits at a slightly higher price point than the classic Dri-Tac.
* ❌ Durability Still a Question: While improved, it is still a very soft polymer grip. I suspect that over a full season, it will still wear faster than a firm rubber grip like the JumboMax. Workaround: Gentle cleaning and proper storage are key to maximizing its lifespan.

Expert’s Experience

Cushioned Comfort & Fatigue Reduction
Playing a full round with the Winn Titanun grips is a remarkably comfortable experience. The level of cushioning is immediately apparent from the first swing. It significantly reduces the high-frequency vibrations that can build up in your hands and forearms. After 18 holes, my hands felt noticeably less tired and sore.

Dri-Tac Technology & All-Weather Grip
The new generation of Dri-Tac polymer feels just as tacky and reliable as the original. I had zero issues with slippage during my testing, and it inspires the confidence to maintain light pressure regardless of the weather. It provides a secure hold without needing to strangle the club, which is the key to reducing pain.

Shock Absorption & Feel
This grip’s primary mission is to absorb shock, and it succeeds brilliantly. I intentionally hit shots thin and off the toe with my 4-iron, and the resulting vibration was significantly dampened compared to a standard rubber grip. While this absolutely reduces precise feedback, for the target player seeking maximum comfort, it’s a perfect and worthwhile trade-off.


Thick Golf Grips Comparison Chart

To help you make a quick decision, I’ve put together this chart comparing the key features of each grip I tested. This gives you an at-a-glance look at how these five grips stack up on the most important attributes.

Feature Golf Pride CP2 Pro Golf Pride CP2 Wrap JumboMax JMX Ultralite Winn Dri-Tac Oversize Winn Titanun Dri-Tac
Category Best Overall Best Wrap-Style Best for Club Speed Best for Tackiness Best for Comfort
Feel Very Soft & Cushioned Soft & Tacky Very Firm & Large Very Soft & Tacky Extremely Cushioned
Key Technology Control Core, Plus4 Control Core, Plus4 Ultralite, StabilityCore Dri-Tac Polymer Next-Gen Dri-Tac
Primary Benefit Balanced Performance Classic Feel & Control Increased Club Speed All-Weather Grip Maximum Shock Absorption
Best For All-around players seeking comfort & control Golfers who prefer a traditional wrap feel Players trying to maximize swing speed Golfers with sweaty hands or who play in the rain Players with arthritis or seeking max comfort
My Rating 4.8/5 ⭐ 4.7/5 ⭐ 4.5/5 ⭐ 4.6/5 ⭐ 4.8/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis:
My analysis shows that the Golf Pride CP2 Pro offers the best all-around package of comfort, stability, and tension reduction, making it my top pick. It’s the grip I’d recommend to most golfers venturing into the world of thick grips for the first time.

For players prioritizing specific needs, the choice becomes clear. In the jumbomax vs golf pride debate for stability, JumboMax wins, but its feel is an acquired taste. The JumboMax JMX Ultralite is unmatched for its unique lightweight design aimed at speed, while the Winn models are the undisputed champions of all-weather tackiness and cushioned comfort.

The Golf Pride CP2 Wrap serves as a fantastic alternative for those who love a classic wrap texture but want modern stability features. Your ideal grip depends entirely on whether you value a balanced feel, raw speed, ultimate tackiness, or pure, pain-free comfort.


Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Thick Golf Grip

Choosing the right thick golf grip goes beyond just picking the biggest one available. It’s about matching the grip’s size, material, texture, and firmness to your hand size, swing characteristics, and personal preferences. This guide will walk you through the key factors I consider when fitting grips for myself and others.

  • Grip Size (Oversize vs. Jumbo): This is the most critical factor. “Oversize” or “Midsize” is typically +1/16″ or +1/8″ larger than standard, which is ideal for players with slightly larger hands or those wanting to reduce some hand action. “Jumbo” grips (like those from JumboMax) are significantly larger (+3/8″ or more) and are designed to drastically quiet the hands and wrists. Guidance: If your glove size is Large or XL, start with an Oversize/Midsize model like the Golf Pride or Winn options. If you have very large hands or a significant issue with overactive hands (leading to bad hooks/pulls), then consider a Jumbo grip.
  • Material & Feel (Rubber vs. Polymer): The material dictates the grip’s feel, durability, and performance in different conditions. Soft rubber grips (like the Golf Pride CP2 Pro) offer a great blend of comfort and feedback. Polymer/Synthetic grips (like the Winn Dri-Tac) excel in tackiness and shock absorption but may be less durable over time. Guidance: If you prioritize a traditional feel and long-term durability, choose rubber. If you need maximum tackiness for sweaty hands and cushioned comfort for joint pain, polymer is your best bet.
  • Taper Profile (Standard vs. Reduced Taper): A traditional grip tapers, becoming thinner toward the bottom where your lower hand rests. Reduced taper grips (like those with Golf Pride’s Plus4 Technology) are thicker in the lower hand section. This is specifically designed to reduce grip tension and prevent the bottom hand from becoming too dominant. Guidance: If you have a tendency to squeeze too hard with your bottom hand, often leading to a hook, a reduced taper grip is an excellent choice to try.
  • Surface Texture & Tackiness: Texture affects how the grip feels in your hands and how it performs in different weather. Smooth, soft textures are comfortable, while more aggressive patterns or corded grips provide more traction, especially in the wet. Tacky grips (like Winn) feel almost sticky and provide a secure hold with very light pressure. Guidance: For dry-weather players who prioritize comfort, a soft, lightly-textured grip is great. For golfers with sweaty hands or those who often play in the rain, a high-tack grip is absolutely essential for confidence.
  • Firmness & Shock Absorption: Grip firmness ranges from very soft and cushioned to extra firm. Softer grips (like the Winn Titanun Dri-Tac) absorb more vibration, which is ideal for players with arthritis or tennis elbow. Firmer grips (like the JumboMax JMX Ultralite) provide more feedback and torsional stability. Guidance: If your primary goal is to reduce pain and fatigue, choose a soft, shock-absorbing grip. If you want to feel exactly where you struck the ball on the face, a firmer grip is the better option.
  • Grip Weight & Swing Weight: A grip’s weight affects the club’s overall balance, known as swing weight. Standard grips are around 50g. Heavy oversized grips (>65g) can make the clubhead feel lighter (a counter-balancing effect), while very light grips (like the JMX Ultralite at ~51g) can make the clubhead feel heavier. Guidance: If you are happy with your current swing weight, look for an oversized grip that is close to the 50-55g range. If you want more clubhead feel or are trying to increase speed, consider an ultralight model.

FAQs About Thick Golf Grips

I get asked a lot of questions about oversized and jumbo grips. Here are direct answers to the most common ones.

Will thicker golf grips help my slice?

Yes, a thicker grip can often help a slice. A slice is typically caused by an open clubface at impact. Thicker grips can slow down the rate of hand and forearm rotation through the swing. This slower rotation can prevent the clubface from opening up too much, helping you deliver a squarer face to the ball. However, it’s not a guaranteed fix if your slice is caused by a severe over-the-top swing path.

Do thicker golf grips help with arthritis?

Yes, absolutely. This is one of their most significant benefits. A thicker grip allows you to hold the club securely with less hand pressure and without needing to wrap your fingers as tightly. This can significantly reduce strain on arthritic joints in the hands and fingers. I highly recommend soft, shock-absorbing models like the Winn Titanun Dri-Tac for this exact purpose.

What is the difference between midsize and jumbo?

The main difference is the diameter. “Midsize” is generally the first step up from a standard grip, typically adding +1/16″ in diameter. “Oversize” is often used for the next step, +1/8″. “Jumbo” is the largest category, ranging from +1/4″ to over +3/8″ larger than standard. Midsize/Oversize is best for players with slightly large hands, while Jumbo is a more significant change designed to fundamentally quiet the hands and wrists during the swing.

Are oversized golf grips better?

They are not universally “better,” but they are better for certain types of players. They are definitely better for golfers with large hands, those who suffer from arthritis, or players who have overly active hands and wrists in their swing that cause inconsistency. For a player with small hands and a fundamentally sound grip, an oversized grip could be detrimental and inhibit a proper release.

Do pros use oversized grips?

Yes, some tour pros do use oversized or built-up grips. While the majority of tour pros use standard or midsize grips, players like Bryson DeChambeau have famously used jumbo grips to great success. Bubba Watson is another notable player who uses many extra wraps of tape under his standard grips to build them up to a much larger, non-tapered size.

How do I know if my grips are too small?

A common indicator is if the fingertips of your top hand are digging into the fleshy part of your palm when you hold the club. Another sign is seeing excessive wear on your golf glove in the palm area. If you feel like you have to squeeze the club tightly to control it throughout the swing, your grips are very likely too small for your hands.

Do thick grips reduce grip pressure?

Yes, this is one of their primary functions and benefits. Because a thicker grip fills your hands more completely, your brain receives the signal that the club is secure without needing to apply as much muscular force. This instinctively leads to lighter, more relaxed grip pressure, which can improve your tempo, reduce tension, and ultimately increase clubhead speed.

Do oversized grips stop slicing?

They can help reduce a slice for many players, but they are not a magic cure. By slowing down excessive hand rotation, they can prevent the clubface from opening further during the downswing. For many amateur golfers who have a slight slice, this is enough to turn that shot into a playable fade or even a straight ball. It’s one of the easiest potential fixes to try.

Are bigger golf grips better for big hands?

Yes, unequivocally. A player with large hands using a standard-sized grip is forced to use an uncomfortable and overly tight finger grip, leading to tension. A larger grip that fits their hand size allows them to hold the club more in their palms with a natural, light pressure. This leads to far more comfort, less tension, and better control of the clubface.

What is the tackiest golf grip?

In my direct experience, grips in the Winn Dri-Tac family are the tackiest available on the market. The polymer material they use creates a sticky, secure feel that is unmatched, especially in wet or humid conditions where other grips can become slippery. The trade-off for this incredible tackiness has historically been reduced durability compared to traditional rubber grips.


Final Verdict

After extensive analysis of the materials, technologies, and on-course performance, my top recommendation for the best thick golf grip is clear. While every grip on this list is a winner for a specific type of player, one stands out for its remarkable balance of modern technology, widespread appeal, and immediate performance benefits.

The best overall thick golf grip is the Golf Pride CP2 Pro. It provides the perfect blend of a soft, comfortable feel for tension reduction, a stable core that resists twisting on mishits, and the proven Plus4 technology that quiets the lower hand. It’s a do-it-all performer that will benefit the widest range of golfers.

This grip is perfect for you if…
* You want to reduce grip tension and have a smoother tempo.
* You need a balance of soft comfort and stable control.
* You struggle with an overactive lower hand causing hooks.
* You want a high-tack surface that provides confidence.
* You value the feedback of a rubber grip but want more cushioning.

This grip is not ideal for…
* Players who demand maximum durability above all else.
* Golfers who prefer an extremely firm, responsive feel.
* Those who need the absolute maximum shock absorption for severe arthritis.

If your primary goal is to eliminate pain and play with the most comfortable grip possible, the Winn Titanun Dri-Tac is the undeniable choice, as its shock absorption is second to none. But for most players, the best investment you can make in your game is a set of grips that feel comfortable and give you the confidence to swing freely.

For the best combination of comfort and control, that grip is the Golf Pride CP2 Pro.

Last update on 2026-02-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Mark Crossfield
Mark Crossfield

Mark Crossfield is a UK-based golf coach, author, and YouTuber. He simplifies complex concepts, emphasizes understanding fundamentals, and has authored several golf books. Mark has helped golfers worldwide improve their game through his coaching, online content, and contributions to magazines and TV programs.