Gear guide · last reviewed 2026-10
Grips & overgrips: buying guide
Tacky PU overgrips vs towel grips, and how to choose for sweaty hands.
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How to choose
An overgrip is the cheapest upgrade in badminton: it changes how secure the racket feels and lets you adjust handle thickness. Replace it as soon as it feels slippery or worn.
- PU (synthetic) overgrip
- Tacky or dry feel, thin and precise. Most popular choice.
- Towel grip
- Absorbs sweat; thicker and softer. Good in humid halls; needs replacing often and can collect dirt.
- Thickness
- Each overgrip adds a little thickness. Use one on a thin handle, or switch to a thicker grip for a fuller feel.
- Replacement (base) grip
- Replace the original grip only when it is worn out or you want a different shape.
What to look for at each level
- Beginner: Any tacky PU overgrip.
- Intermediate: Tacky PU, or towel grip if your hands sweat.
- Advanced: Pick by feel; keep spares in your bag.
- Professional: Fresh grips before every match.
Picks by level and budget
| Level | Budget under ₹300 / $5 | Mid-range ₹300–700 / $5–10 | Premium above ₹700 / $10 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | Yonex Super Grap (AC102) overgrip Victor GR262 overgrip | Tourna Grip (Original) | Grips are inexpensive, so there is no real premium tier: buy a multi-pack or a reel to save money. |
| Intermediate | Yonex Super Grap (AC102) overgrip Victor GR262 overgrip | Tourna Grip (Original) Karakal PU Super Grip Yonex Towel grip (AC402) | Grips are inexpensive, so there is no real premium tier: buy a multi-pack or a reel to save money. |
| Advanced | Yonex Super Grap (AC102) overgrip Victor GR262 overgrip | Tourna Grip (Original) Karakal PU Super Grip Yonex Towel grip (AC402) | Grips are inexpensive, so there is no real premium tier: buy a multi-pack or a reel to save money. |
| Professional | Yonex Super Grap (AC102) overgrip | Tourna Grip (Original) Karakal PU Super Grip Yonex Towel grip (AC402) | Grips are inexpensive, so there is no real premium tier: buy a multi-pack or a reel to save money. |
All grips & overgrips we recommend
Super Grap (AC102) overgrip
Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
- Type
- PU overgrip
- Feel
- Tacky
Best for: Almost everyone: the standard overgrip.
Inexpensive, tacky and comfortable; sold in packs of 3 or as a reel.
GR262 overgrip
Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced
- Type
- PU overgrip
- Feel
- Tacky
Best for: Players who want a slightly cushioned tacky grip.
A popular, affordable alternative to Super Grap.
Tourna Grip (Original)
Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
- Type
- Dry-feel overgrip
Best for: Players with sweaty hands who dislike tacky grips.
Gets grippier as it absorbs sweat; a long-standing favourite in humid conditions.
PU Super Grip
Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
- Type
- PU replacement/overgrip
- Feel
- Tacky, cushioned
Best for: Players who want a thicker, cushioned handle.
Durable and grippy; can be used as a replacement grip for a fuller handle.
Towel grip (AC402)
Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
- Type
- Towel grip
- Feel
- Soft, absorbent
Best for: Very sweaty hands and humid halls.
Absorbs sweat for a secure hold.
Thicker; replace often for hygiene.
Tips
- Wrap from the bottom up, overlapping slightly, and finish with the tape at the top.
- Change grips every 2–4 weeks of regular play.
Other guides: Badminton rackets · Shuttlecocks · Strings & tension · Badminton shoes · Bags & accessories
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