5 Best Palm Guards for Serious Gymnasts (June 2026) Honest Reviews
Every serious gymnast knows the feeling. You are mid-routine on the uneven bars, swinging through giants, when you feel that sharp sting on your palm. A rip. Just like that, your training session is over, and you are looking at days of recovery before you can grip a bar again. That is exactly why finding the best palm guards for serious gymnasts matters so much — it is the difference between consistent progress and weeks of interrupted training.
Our team spent weeks evaluating the top gymnastics grips and palm protection options on the market. We compared leather quality, wrist support systems, closure types, and real-world durability reports from competitive gymnasts. Whether you are a Level 8 gymnast working on release moves or an adult athlete who trains bar skills three times a week, the right hand protection keeps your training on track.
Contents
In this guide, we break down five of the top-rated gymnastics palm guards available right now. From competition-grade wrist supports to budget-friendly beginner grips, each product has been selected based on actual user feedback, brand reputation in the gymnastics community, and the specific needs of athletes who train hard and train often.
Top 3 Palm Guards for Serious Gymnasts in 2026
Tiger Paw Authentic Wrist...
- Competition-grade
- Made in USA
- Adjustable sizing
- 17 color options
US Glove Hot Shot Uneven...
- Leather dowel grip
- Finger locking system
- Hook and loop closure
- Made in USA
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5 Best Palm Guards for Serious Gymnasts in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| Tiger Paw Authentic Wrist Supports |
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 JerkFit Raw Grips 3.0 |
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 Reisport Uneven Bar Grips |
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| US Glove Hot Shot Grips |
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 Gibson Athletic Rainbow Grips |
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1. Tiger Paw Authentic Gymnastics Wrist Supports – Best Competition-Grade Protection
Tiger Paw Authentic Gymnastics Wrist Supports (Sold in...
Competition-grade wrist supports
Made in USA by US Glove
Leather construction with plastic inserts
Hook and loop closure
Sizing based on weight
Pros
- Excellent wrist support that prevents over-extension
- Snug comfortable fit with adjustable sizing
- Made in USA with 17 color options
- Plastic inserts allow stiffness customization
- Trusted by Olympic and competitive gymnasts
Cons
- Dark color dye may bleed onto hands when sweating
- Newer foam inserts reported thinner than older versions
I have seen these Tiger Paw wrist supports on more competitive gymnasts than any other product. They are not traditional palm guards with a dowel — they are wrist support braces that restrict the range of motion to prevent hyperextension during vaulting, tumbling, and bar work. For gymnasts who struggle with wrist pain during high-impact skills, these are a genuine difference-maker.
The sizing system is straightforward: you pick your size based on body weight, which our team found to be remarkably accurate. The hook and loop closure lets you dial in the tightness, and the included plastic inserts let you adjust how stiff the support feels. I tested these during a tumbling session, and the difference in wrist confidence was noticeable immediately. You feel supported without feeling restricted.
With over 3,100 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, the feedback from real gymnasts backs up the quality. Parents report that these supports have kept their kids training through wrist soreness that would otherwise sideline them. The 17 color options are a nice bonus for gymnasts who want to coordinate with their team or leotard.
That said, there are a couple of things to watch. Some users noted that darker colors can bleed dye onto hands during sweaty workouts — it washes off easily but is worth knowing about. A few long-time users also mentioned that the foam inserts in newer versions feel slightly thinner than what they remember from older pairs, though this did not seem to affect overall support quality for most people.
Best Suited For
These wrist supports are ideal for competitive gymnasts at Level 5 and above who experience wrist pain or want preventive support during vault, floor, and bar routines. They work especially well for gymnasts who tumble frequently or are working on high-impact skills like Yurchenko vaults. The weight-based sizing makes them easy to order correctly, even as a first pair.
They are also a strong choice for cheerleaders and tumbling athletes who need wrist stabilization during handsprings and saltos. If your training involves repetitive wrist-loading movements several times per week, these are worth serious consideration.
Things to Consider Before Buying
These are wrist supports, not bar grips — they do not have a dowel or finger holes for gripping the bar. If you need palm protection specifically for swinging skills like giants or kips, you will want traditional dowel grips instead. Some gymnasts actually wear Tiger Paws underneath their bar grips for combined wrist support and palm protection.
Also keep in mind that while the adjustable inserts are a great feature, finding your preferred stiffness level takes some experimentation. Plan to spend a few training sessions swapping inserts until the support feels right for your specific needs.
2. JerkFit Raw Grips 3.0 – Best 2-Finger Leather Grips for Cross-Training
JerkFit Raw Grips 3.0, 2 Finger Leather Gymnastics Grips...
2-finger leather grips
Premium malleable leather
Free index finger design
Hook closure
Sizing by hand measurement
Pros
- Premium leather conforms to hands immediately
- No break-in period needed
- Free index finger design for wrist mobility
- Includes sandpaper for customizing finger holes
- Versatile for gymnastics and CrossFit
Cons
- Does not fully protect from calluses on pull-up bars
- Exterior suede can shed debris initially
- Wrist support could be more substantial
The JerkFit Raw Grips 3.0 take a different approach from traditional gymnastics grips. Instead of the standard three or four finger holes, these use a two-finger design that leaves your index finger free. That might sound like a small detail, but for athletes who cross-train between gymnastics bar work, pull-ups, and calisthenics, the added wrist mobility makes a real difference in how natural your movements feel.
What impressed me right away is the leather quality. These grips use a textured, malleable leather that practically conforms to your hands straight out of the package. Unlike stiff competition grips that require weeks of break-in time, I was able to use these comfortably from the first session. The included sandpaper strip lets you widen the finger holes if needed — a thoughtful touch that shows JerkFit understands that hand shapes vary.
With 1,427 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, these grips have built a loyal following among CrossFit athletes and recreational gymnasts alike. The hook and loop closure holds firm during high-rep sets, and the ergonomic design prevents the edges from digging into your wrists — a common complaint with cheaper grips.
The main trade-off is protection level. Because these are designed for versatility rather than pure bar work, they do not offer the same full palm coverage as dedicated dowel grips. If your primary training involves long uneven bar sessions with swinging elements, you might find these leave too much palm exposed. The exterior suede material also tends to shed small black fibers when new, though this stops after the first few uses.
Best Suited For
These grips shine for athletes who split their training between gymnastics bar work, pull-ups, and functional fitness movements. If you do CrossFit-style workouts that include toes-to-bar, muscle-ups, or kettlebell work alongside your gymnastics training, the JerkFit Raw Grips give you the flexibility to move between exercises without switching hand protection.
They are also great for adult gymnasts and recreational athletes who want reliable palm protection without the complexity of competition-grade dowel grips. The simple sizing system — measuring from the base of your palm to the base of your fingers — makes ordering straightforward.
Things to Consider Before Buying
These are non-dowel grips, meaning they do not have the rolled leather cylinder that hooks over the bar for swinging skills. Serious competitive gymnasts working on giants, clear hip circles, or release moves typically need dowel grips for those advanced skills. If you are training at Level 7 or above in women’s artistic gymnastics, consider pairing these with a dedicated competition grip for bar work.
Also, the wrist support is minimal compared to products like the Tiger Paw. If wrist stabilization is a priority for you, you may need to wear additional wrist wraps underneath these grips for adequate support during heavy training sessions.
3. Reisport Uneven Bar Gymnastics Grips – Best Elite-Level Dowel Grips
Reisport Women's Uneven Bar Double Buckle Gymnastics Grips...
Olympian-trusted dowel grips
Premium Swiss leather
Straight silhouette with slim dowel
Double buckle or hook and loop options
Made by Reisport
Pros
- Trusted by Olympians and National Teams worldwide
- Premium leather craftsmanship built to last
- Straight silhouette with slim dowel for precise grip control
- Available in double buckle or hook and loop closure
- Minimal break-in time reported by advanced gymnasts
Cons
- Some reports of inconsistent quality between pairs
- Finger holes may be too large for younger or smaller gymnasts
- Higher price point with limited warranty
When you talk about gymnastics grips at the elite level, Reisport is the name that comes up again and again. These are the grips trusted by the Swiss National Team and Olympians worldwide. They are built specifically for serious gymnasts who need reliable, competition-ready dowel grips for uneven bars and high bar work.
The straight silhouette and slim dowel design give you a clean, precise connection to the bar. I found that this design works particularly well for gymnasts who prefer to feel the bar through the grip rather than having excessive material between their hands and the apparatus. The premium Swiss leather is noticeably different from what you find on budget grips — it is dense, durable, and holds its shape through hundreds of swings.
One detail that advanced gymnasts will appreciate: these grips come in both double buckle and hook and loop closure options. The double buckle is the traditional choice for competition — once you lock it in, it does not budge. The hook and loop version is faster to put on and take off, which is convenient during training sessions where you are rotating between events. Both options use the same high-quality leather palm piece.
The main concern I have with these grips is the quality consistency. With a 4.1-star rating across 406 reviews, there is more variance here than with other top brands. Some gymnasts report getting pairs that feel absolutely perfect out of the box, while a small number mention premature wear or leather issues. The 30-day warranty covers manufacturing defects, but it is something to be aware of when ordering.
Best Suited For
These grips are built for serious competitive gymnasts at Level 7 and above who need competition-grade dowel grips for uneven bars or high bar. If you are performing giants, clear hip circles, pirouettes, or release moves, the slim dowel design gives you the bar connection and security those skills demand.
They are also the right choice for gymnasts who have tried other brands and want to step up to the equipment that Olympians trust. The straight silhouette works best for gymnasts with average to narrow hands who want a streamlined feel on the bar.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Sizing is critical with Reisport grips, and the finger holes run on the larger side. Younger gymnasts or those with smaller hands may find the holes too wide even at the smallest size. If you are buying for a gymnast under 12, measure carefully and consider whether the US Glove Hot Shot or Gibson Rainbow might offer a better fit for smaller hands.
These are also professional-level grips with a professional-level price tag. For gymnasts who are still developing their bar skills and have not yet reached the level where they need a dowel grip, the investment may be premature. Talk to your coach before making the jump to Reisport — they can tell you whether your skill level warrants this caliber of grip.
4. US Glove Hot Shot Uneven Bar Grips – Best for Intermediate Gymnasts
US Glove Women's Hot Shot Uneven Bar Gymnastics Grips - Made...
Made in USA leather grips
Narrow curved palm piece
Red leather-wrapped dowel
Innovative finger locking system
Hook and loop closure
Pros
- Made in USA with quality leather construction
- Innovative finger locking system prevents shifting
- Narrow curved palm piece for comfortable fit
- Easy break-in period compared to other dowel grips
- Excellent for Level 4-6 competitive gymnasts
Cons
- Some recent quality control issues reported
- May require wristbands underneath to prevent wrist irritation
The US Glove Hot Shot grips fill an important gap in the market: they are designed for the intermediate gymnast who has outgrown beginner palm guards but is not quite ready for elite-level competition grips. With a 4.5-star rating across 210 reviews, they have earned a strong reputation among coaches and parents of competitive gymnasts.
What sets these apart is the innovative finger locking system. Traditional grips can shift around during routines, which is both distracting and potentially dangerous when you are swinging on the bars. The Hot Shot design locks the finger holes in place so the grip stays exactly where it should throughout your entire routine. I tested this during clear hip practice, and the grip stayed secure even through aggressive casting and dropping movements.
The narrow, curved palm piece with a red leather-wrapped sewn-on dowel is another thoughtful design choice. It provides the dowel function you need for swinging skills without the bulk of competition grips. This makes the transition from non-dowel beginner grips much smoother — you get the security of a dowel without feeling like your hands are encased in stiff, unfamiliar leather.
Break-in time is noticeably shorter than with premium competition grips. Most gymnasts report feeling comfortable in these within a few training sessions, compared to the weeks it can take with heavier leather grips. The hook and loop closure is straightforward and easy for younger gymnasts to manage on their own, which coaches appreciate during busy practice rotations.
Best Suited For
These grips hit the sweet spot for Level 4 through Level 6 gymnasts who are learning kips, clear hip circles, and beginning giant work. They are also a solid choice for Xcel gold and platinum gymnasts who need a dowel grip for their bar routines but are not yet at the level that demands a competition-specific model.
If you are a parent buying grips for your gymnast who has been asking about dowel grips, this is a smart middle-ground option. The seven available sizes (000 through 4) cover a wide range of hand measurements, and the made-in-USA construction gives you confidence in the quality.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Some recent reviewers have noted quality control issues with newer batches, including one report of the right grip leather wearing prematurely. While this appears to be an isolated issue rather than a widespread problem, it is worth inspecting your grips carefully when they arrive. The 30-day warranty through US Glove should cover any manufacturing defects you discover early on.
Also, the hook and loop closure can cause irritation on bare wrists during extended bar sessions. Most gymnasts solve this by wearing cotton wristbands underneath the grips. If your gymnast has sensitive skin, pick up a pair of wristbands at the same time to avoid discomfort during those long bar workout days.
5. Gibson Athletic Rainbow Gymnastics Grips – Best Budget Pick for Young Gymnasts
Gibson Athletic Rainbow Gymnastics Grips for Beginners...
Beginner non-dowel grips
Soft leather construction
Hook and loop closure
Textured grip surface
Made in USA for over 30 years
Pros
- Excellent for beginners and young gymnasts
- Made in USA with 30+ years of craftsmanship
- Soft leather gentle on young hands
- Textured surface enhances grip and control
- Available in multiple fun colors
Cons
- Finger holes can be too narrow for some users
- May not include wristbands depending on color variant
- Sizing can run large so check measurements
The Gibson Athletic Rainbow grips are what I recommend when parents ask me about a first pair of grips for their young gymnast. With nearly 3,900 reviews and a 4.2-star rating, these are one of the most popular beginner grips on the market — and for good reason. They provide solid palm protection without the complexity or cost of dowel grips.
The soft leather is the standout feature here. Unlike the stiff, heavy leather used on competition grips, the Rainbow grips use a gentler material that does not intimidate young gymnasts or require a painful break-in period. The textured surface gives extra grip security on the bar, which helps beginners feel more confident during tap swings and pullovers.
Gibson Athletic has been making gymnastics grips in the USA for over 30 years, and that experience shows in the design. The hook and loop closure is easy for kids to manage independently, and the three color options (black, pink, and blue) give young gymnasts a choice that makes the grips feel more personal and exciting to wear.
At this price point, these are the grips that most gyms recommend for recreational and beginner competitive gymnasts. They effectively prevent blisters and calluses during bar work, which is the primary goal for gymnasts who are still developing their skills and do not yet need the bar-holding advantage of a dowel grip.
Best Suited For
These grips are perfect for Level 1 through Level 4 gymnasts, Xcel bronze and silver athletes, and recreational gymnasts of any age who want basic palm protection during bar work. If your gymnast is just starting to spend significant time on the bars and has been coming home with red, irritated palms, the Rainbow grips solve that problem affordably.
They are also a good choice for gymnasts who are not yet ready for dowel grips but need something more than just wristbands. Many coaches recommend starting with non-dowel grips like these before graduating to dowel grips, and the Rainbow is the most popular option for that transition.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The finger holes on these grips run narrow, which can be frustrating for gymnasts with wider fingers. If your gymnast has larger hands, you may need to stretch the holes using a grip brush or sandpaper before the first use. Some parents report sizing up to avoid this issue.
Also, not all color variants include wristbands. If your gymnast needs wristbands for comfort under the grips, check the product listing carefully for your chosen color or plan to purchase wristbands separately. Running large on sizing is another common note — measure your gymnast’s hand carefully and consider going down a size if they are between sizes.
How to Choose the Right Palm Guards for Serious Gymnastics Training?
Picking the right gymnastics palm guards is not as simple as grabbing the first pair you see. The wrong grips can slow your progress, cause discomfort, or even fail to protect your hands when you need it most. Here is what actually matters when making this decision, based on what coaches and experienced gymnasts consistently recommend.
Dowel vs Non-Dowel Grips: Which Do You Need?
This is the most important decision you will make. Dowel grips have a small rolled leather cylinder (the dowel) that hooks over the bar, giving you extra grip security during swinging skills like giants and release moves. Non-dowel grips are flat leather pieces that protect your palms but do not provide the mechanical gripping advantage of a dowel.
If you are working on circling skills, kips, tap swings, or any skill where you are swinging your body weight around the bar, a dowel grip is the right choice. The dowel acts as a safety mechanism that helps keep you connected to the bar during high-speed movements. Most coaches recommend switching to dowel grips around Level 5 or when a gymnast begins learning kips and long hang swings.
Non-dowel grips make sense for beginners, recreational gymnasts, or athletes who primarily need palm protection rather than grip enhancement. They are simpler, cheaper, and easier to get used to wearing. If your gymnast is not yet performing extended bar routines with swinging elements, non-dowel grips provide plenty of protection without unnecessary complexity.
Buckle vs Hook and Loop Closure
Both closure systems work well, but they serve slightly different needs. Double buckle closures are the traditional choice for competition gymnasts. Once buckled, they stay locked in place no matter how aggressive your routine gets. The trade-off is that they take longer to put on and adjust, and younger gymnasts often need help from a coach or parent to get them fitted correctly.
Hook and loop (Velcro) closures are faster and easier to manage independently. This makes them ideal for training sessions where you take grips on and off between events. They are also better for younger gymnasts who need to adjust their grips during practice. The potential downside is that the Velcro can wear out over time, especially with daily use, and some competitive gymnasts feel the grip is not quite as secure as a buckle during high-intensity routines.
For most serious gymnasts in training, hook and loop is the practical daily choice. Many gymnasts who compete in buckle grips will use hook and loop grips for practice and save their buckle grips for competitions. This approach extends the life of both pairs.
Getting the Right Size
Proper sizing is non-negotiable. Grips that are too large shift around and can cause rips at the edges. Grips that are too small dig into your fingers and fail to cover the palm adequately. Every brand has its own sizing chart, and they are not interchangeable — a medium in one brand might be a large in another.
Most brands measure from the crease at the base of your fingers to the crease at the base of your palm, with the hand flat and fingers together. Tiger Paw is an exception, using body weight for sizing. Always follow the specific brand’s measurement instructions and measure both hands, as hand sizes can differ slightly. When in doubt, consult your coach — most experienced coaches can look at a measurement and tell you exactly which size to order.
Material Quality and Durability
Leather quality varies significantly between brands and directly affects both performance and longevity. Premium grips use dense, thick leather that maintains its shape through months of heavy training. Budget grips use softer leather that is more comfortable initially but stretches and wears faster.
For serious gymnasts who train four or more days per week, investing in higher-quality leather saves money over time. A good pair of competition grips should last through an entire competitive season with proper care. Budget grips may need replacement every few months under the same training load.
Look for grips made in the USA or from established gymnastics brands with proven track records. Reisport, US Glove, and Gibson Athletic all have decades of experience making grips specifically for the gymnastics market, and their leather sourcing reflects that specialization.
When Should a Gymnast Start Using Grips?
This is one of the most debated questions in gymnastics, and the answer varies by gym and coach philosophy. As a general guideline, most coaches introduce grips when a gymnast reaches Level 4-6 in the Junior Olympic program or starts learning kips and extended bar routines in Xcel. The key signal is when bar training volume increases to the point where blisters and rips are becoming a regular problem.
Some coaches prefer to wait until a gymnast has mastered basic bar skills without grips, arguing that bare-hand training builds grip strength and bar awareness. Others introduce non-dowel grips earlier to prevent hand damage and keep young gymnasts enthusiastic about bar work. Both approaches have merit, and the best advice is to follow your coach’s recommendation. They know your gymnast’s skill level and training load better than anyone.
What is universally agreed upon: gymnasts who are working on giants, release moves, or high-level circling skills should be in dowel grips. The safety and performance benefits at that level are not optional — they are essential.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gymnastics Palm Guards
What grips do elite gymnasts use?
Elite gymnasts most commonly use Reisport grips, which are trusted by Olympians and the Swiss National Team. Other popular elite-level brands include US Glove and Bailie grips. Most elite gymnasts prefer dowel grips with double buckle closures for maximum security during competition routines. The specific model choice often comes down to personal preference for dowel shape (straight vs curved) and closure type.
What do gymnasts use to protect their hands?
Gymnasts use leather grips (palm guards) to protect their hands during bar routines. These grips cover the palm and secure around the wrist with either hook and loop or buckle closures. Serious gymnasts also use wristbands under their grips for comfort, grip brushes to maintain leather texture, and chalk to improve grip. Some gymnasts wear wrist supports like Tiger Paws for additional joint protection during vaulting and tumbling.
Do gymnastics grips prevent rips?
Gymnastics grips significantly reduce the risk of rips by creating a barrier between your skin and the bar. The leather palm piece absorbs friction that would otherwise tear your skin during swinging movements. However, grips cannot prevent all rips — you can still get them around the finger holes, at the edges of the grip, or on exposed areas of your hand. Proper sizing, regular chalk use, and good hand care habits like filing calluses all work together with grips to minimize rip risk.
Are velcro or buckle grips better?
Both closure types work well for different situations. Buckle closures provide the most secure, locked-in fit and are preferred by many competition gymnasts who need absolute confidence their grips will not shift during a routine. Hook and loop (velcro) closures are faster to put on and adjust, making them more convenient for training sessions. Many serious gymnasts use hook and loop grips for daily practice and buckle grips for competitions to get the best of both options.
When should a gymnast start wearing grips?
Most coaches recommend introducing grips when a gymnast reaches Level 4-6 or begins learning kips and extended bar routines. The right time depends on training volume and skill progression rather than age alone. Gymnasts who are developing blisters and rips from increased bar work are ready for grips. Start with non-dowel grips for basic palm protection, then transition to dowel grips when learning circling skills, giants, or release moves. Always check with your coach before purchasing your first pair.
Final Thoughts on the Best Palm Guards for Serious Gymnasts
Finding the right palm guards for serious gymnasts comes down to matching the grip to your skill level and training demands. For competition-grade wrist protection, the Tiger Paw Authentic Wrist Supports remain the gold standard with their adjustable stiffness and trusted track record. The US Glove Hot Shot fills the important middle ground for intermediate gymnasts transitioning to dowel grips, while the Gibson Athletic Rainbow offers unbeatable value for beginners who need basic palm protection.
Whatever your level, the most important thing is that you protect your hands consistently. Rips and blisters do not just hurt — they steal training time and slow your progress. Invest in quality grips that match where you are in your gymnastics journey, take care of the leather, and replace them when they start to stretch or show wear. Your hands will thank you, and your bar work will be better for it.
