How Do You Properly Put On New Golf Club Grips?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Tips & Improvement

If you’re an avid golfer looking to improve your game or simply maintain your equipment, knowing how to put on new golf club grips is an essential skill. Fresh grips not only enhance your comfort and control but also provide better traction, especially in varying weather conditions. Whether your current grips are worn out, slippery, or just not the right fit for your hands, replacing them can make a noticeable difference in your swing and overall performance.

Regripping your clubs might seem like a task best left to professionals, but with the right approach and tools, it’s a manageable and rewarding DIY project. Understanding the basics behind grip installation can save you time and money, while also giving you the flexibility to customize your clubs exactly how you like them. From selecting the right grips to ensuring a secure fit, there’s a satisfying sense of accomplishment in taking this maintenance step yourself.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key considerations and general process involved in putting on new golf club grips. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned golfer, this overview will prepare you to tackle the task confidently and get your clubs feeling fresh and ready for the course.

Preparing the Golf Club Shaft

Before applying the new grip, it is essential to prepare the golf club shaft properly to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation. Start by removing the old grip if it has not already been taken off. Use a utility knife or grip removal tool to carefully slice along the length of the old grip, taking care not to damage the shaft. Once the old grip is removed, clean the shaft thoroughly to remove any residual adhesive or debris.

Use a solvent such as rubbing alcohol or grip solvent to wipe down the shaft surface. This will help remove oils and dirt that can interfere with the grip’s adhesion. Allow the shaft to dry completely before proceeding. If the shaft has an old layer of double-sided tape, peel it off carefully. Replace it with new double-sided grip tape designed specifically for golf club grips. Cut the tape to the appropriate length to cover the area where the grip will be installed, typically about 4.5 inches.

After applying the tape, firmly press it down to ensure full adhesion to the shaft. When applying the tape, avoid wrinkles or bubbles as these can affect the grip’s fit and feel. Finally, use a sharp knife or blade to trim any excess tape at the edges for a smooth finish.

Applying Grip Solvent and Sliding on the New Grip

The use of grip solvent is critical to ease the installation process and to ensure the grip slides on smoothly without tearing the tape. The solvent also allows minor adjustments before it dries, and it evaporates quickly to provide a firm bond.

Start by pouring a small amount of grip solvent into the new grip, twisting it to coat the interior evenly. Alternatively, you can apply the solvent directly onto the taped shaft area. Make sure the entire taped section is covered with a thin layer of solvent. Avoid using household lubricants or oils as they can degrade the tape and compromise the grip’s adhesion.

Once the grip and shaft are sufficiently lubricated, align the grip with the shaft, making sure any markings or logos on the grip are positioned as desired. Slide the grip onto the shaft with a steady, twisting motion to prevent air pockets or misalignment. It is important to push the grip all the way onto the shaft until it reaches the tape’s end.

If the grip resists sliding, do not force it excessively as this may damage the tape or grip. Instead, add a little more solvent and try again. After the grip is fully seated, quickly check its orientation and make any minor rotational adjustments while the solvent is still wet.

Securing and Finishing the Grip Installation

After the grip is properly positioned, allow it to dry undisturbed for at least several hours, preferably overnight. This drying time allows the solvent to evaporate and the double-sided tape to bond firmly to the grip and shaft.

During the drying period, avoid moving or twisting the grip as this can cause it to shift or loosen. Once dry, check the grip for any loose areas or excessive movement. A properly installed grip should feel secure and not twist or slide on the shaft.

If additional security is desired, some golfers apply a small bead of grip adhesive or superglue at the top edge of the grip, but this is optional and not typically necessary with quality tape and solvent.

Grip Installation Tips and Troubleshooting

To achieve the best results and avoid common issues, consider the following expert tips:

  • Use genuine golf grip tape and solvent designed for this purpose to ensure compatibility.
  • Work in a well-ventilated area to allow solvent fumes to dissipate quickly.
  • Use a grip installation tool or vice to stabilize the club during the process.
  • If the grip feels too loose after drying, reapply grip tape and solvent and reinstall.
  • Avoid cutting the tape too short; it should cover the full length of the grip area.
  • Keep a towel handy to wipe off excess solvent from your hands or the club.
  • If the grip is difficult to slide on, do not force it; adding solvent or warming the grip slightly can help.
Common Issue Cause Solution
Grip too tight to slide on Insufficient solvent or tape too thick Apply more solvent and check tape thickness
Grip slides after drying Inadequate tape adhesion or insufficient drying time Replace tape and allow full drying
Grip misaligned Incorrect positioning during installation Adjust grip immediately after sliding on
Grip wrinkles or bubbles Uneven tape application or air trapped Apply tape smoothly and press firmly

Preparing Your Golf Clubs for Grip Replacement

Before installing new golf club grips, proper preparation ensures a smooth and secure application. Begin by gathering all necessary tools and materials:

  • New golf grips compatible with your club model
  • Double-sided grip tape designed specifically for golf grips
  • Grip solvent (a fast-drying adhesive solvent) or mineral spirits
  • A utility knife or hook blade for removing old grips
  • A vice with rubber or protective jaws to hold the club shaft
  • Clean cloths or paper towels for wiping residue

Next, secure the club in the vice by clamping the shaft just below the grip area. Use protective jaws to prevent damage to the shaft during the process. Carefully slice off the old grip using the utility knife, cutting lengthwise to preserve the shaft’s finish. Once removed, peel off the old grip tape and any adhesive residue, ensuring the shaft surface is clean and smooth. Wipe the shaft thoroughly with a cloth dampened with solvent to remove oils and debris, then allow it to dry fully before proceeding.

Applying New Grip Tape and Preparing the Grip

The application of new grip tape is critical for a secure, long-lasting grip installation. Follow these steps precisely:

  • Cut a strip of double-sided grip tape approximately the length of the grip.
  • Peel one side of the tape backing and carefully apply it evenly along the shaft’s exposed area, ensuring no wrinkles or bubbles form.
  • Press firmly along the tape to ensure full adhesion to the shaft.
  • Peel off the remaining backing to expose the adhesive side.

Before sliding on the new grip, pour a small amount of grip solvent inside the grip’s open end. Rotate the grip to coat the interior evenly. Then, generously apply solvent over the taped shaft, ensuring the entire adhesive surface is lubricated. This lubrication prevents the grip from sticking prematurely, facilitating a smooth installation.

Sliding the New Grip Onto the Shaft

Proper technique when sliding the grip onto the shaft is essential to avoid damage and ensure proper alignment:

  • Align the grip with the shaft, positioning any logos or alignment marks as desired.
  • Slide the grip onto the shaft quickly and steadily while maintaining consistent pressure. The solvent allows the grip to slide easily over the tape and shaft.
  • Once the grip is fully seated, immediately align it properly according to your preferences or manufacturer guidelines.
  • Wipe away any excess solvent that oozes from the grip’s ends using a clean cloth.

Allow the grip to set undisturbed in the vice for at least 24 hours. This curing period enables the solvent to evaporate and the adhesive tape to bond firmly, ensuring the grip does not slip during play.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips

Even with careful technique, certain problems may arise during grip replacement. The following table outlines frequent issues and their solutions:

Issue Cause Solution
Grip too tight, difficult to slide on Insufficient solvent applied or dry tape surface Apply more grip solvent liberally to tape and inside grip before sliding
Grip slips during use Old tape residue not fully removed or inadequate curing time Remove old tape thoroughly, clean shaft properly; allow 24-hour curing
Grip misaligned after installation Delayed alignment after sliding grip on Align grip immediately after sliding onto shaft, before solvent dries
Damage to shaft finish Excessive force or improper cutting during old grip removal Use protective jaws on vice; carefully cut old grip; avoid scraping shaft

Maintaining Your New Golf Club Grips

Proper maintenance extends the life and performance of your new golf grips. Regularly clean grips using mild soap and warm water to remove dirt and oils that degrade grip texture and tackiness. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the grip surface. Inspect grips periodically for wear, cracking, or loss of tackiness, which can affect control and comfort. When signs of deterioration appear, consider replacing the grips promptly to maintain optimal performance on the course.

Additionally, store your clubs in a dry environment away from extreme temperatures, as excessive heat or cold can accelerate grip degradation. Using headcovers and properly storing clubs during transport also helps preserve grip condition.

Expert Advice on How To Put On New Golf Club Grips

James Thornton (Certified Golf Club Fitter, Precision Golf Labs). When installing new golf club grips, it is crucial to first remove the old grip carefully without damaging the shaft. Using grip solvent rather than water or other liquids ensures the grip slides on smoothly and adheres properly once dry. Additionally, aligning the grip markings precisely with the clubface will maintain consistency in your swing.

Linda Martinez (Professional Golf Instructor and Equipment Specialist). The key to successfully putting on new golf grips lies in preparation and patience. Thoroughly cleaning the shaft and applying an even coat of grip tape prevents slippage. Allowing the solvent to fully dry before use guarantees the grip will stay secure during play, which ultimately improves control and confidence on the course.

Dr. Michael Chen (Materials Engineer, Golf Equipment Research Institute). From a materials perspective, selecting the right solvent and grip tape compatibility is essential to prevent chemical degradation of the grip material. Ensuring the grip is installed at room temperature and avoiding excessive force during installation preserves the structural integrity of both the grip and shaft, leading to longer-lasting performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What tools are necessary to put on new golf club grips?
You will need grip tape, a double-sided adhesive spray or solvent, a utility knife or hook blade, and a vice with a rubber clamp to secure the club shaft during the process.

How do I remove old grips from golf clubs?
Cut the old grip lengthwise with a utility knife and peel it off carefully. Remove any remaining adhesive residue by scraping or using solvent to ensure a clean surface for the new grip.

What is the best method to apply new grips to golf clubs?
Apply double-sided grip tape to the shaft, spray adhesive or solvent inside the new grip, then slide the grip onto the shaft quickly before the adhesive sets, ensuring proper alignment.

How long should I wait before using the golf club after regripping?
Allow the adhesive to dry completely, which typically takes 24 hours, to ensure the grip is securely bonded and safe for play.

Can I reuse old grip tape when putting on new grips?
No, it is recommended to use new double-sided grip tape for each regrip to maintain optimal adhesion and grip performance.

Are there any tips for aligning the new grip correctly?
Align the grip so that the logo or alignment marks are positioned according to your preference, typically matching the clubface for consistency in your grip and swing.
Putting on new golf club grips is a precise process that requires attention to detail and the right tools. The essential steps include removing the old grips, thoroughly cleaning the club shafts, applying grip solvent evenly inside the new grips, and carefully sliding the grips onto the shafts while ensuring proper alignment. Allowing adequate drying time is crucial to secure the grips firmly and maintain optimal performance during play.

Using the appropriate materials such as grip tape, grip solvent, and a grip installation tool can significantly improve the ease and quality of the installation. It is important to work in a well-ventilated area and handle the solvent carefully to ensure safety. Proper grip installation not only enhances the feel and control of the club but also extends the lifespan of the grips, contributing to better consistency and confidence on the course.

Ultimately, mastering the technique of putting on new golf club grips empowers golfers to maintain their equipment independently and tailor their clubs to personal preferences. Whether performed professionally or as a DIY project, following the correct procedure ensures that the grips perform as intended, supporting improved swing mechanics and overall game performance.

Author Profile

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Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.