For passionate skiers, ski poles are not simply a tool – they become part of an emotional attachment. After all, you need them for balance and agility when weaving through the snowy mountainside!
Unfortunately, no ski pole is invincible. Eventually, the grips may become worn or damaged. When your pole’s grip isn’t in its best shape, it can impair comfortability and safety while skiing.
But don’t worry! Ski pole grips replacement is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort on your part – we have created this step-by-step guide to make replacing your beloved gear easy as pie.
Follow this guide and you will be able to switch out those old grips with new ones without any hassle whatsoever!
Table of Contents
Why Replace Ski Pole Grips?
As skiing can be a dangerous sport, it is important to take precautions and ensure that your ski pole grips are in good condition.
Worn-out grips can cause discomfort, lessen the grip you have on the poles, and even lead to potential safety hazards while skiing.
That said, replacing the entire set of ski poles may not always be necessary– instead, simply switching out old grips for new ones is often more cost-effective than buying a whole new pair of poles.
Replacing your ski pole’s grip does not require any special tools or expertise and anyone with basic knowledge about how their equipment works should be able to do so without much hassle.
Signs that indicate it might be time for an upgrade include loose fits around the wrists or hands as well as peeling and cracking material on the ski pole handle itself.
If left unchecked, these issues could make enjoying this winter activity quite uncomfortable!
In either case, investing in some fresh replacement handles will provide you with better control over your skis – plus, they’ll look awesome too!
Tools and Materials Needed
Ski pole grips replacement can be a relatively straightforward task, although the tools and materials needed may vary depending on the brand and type of your poles.
Here are all the items you’ll need to replace grips:
- Replacement grips: You can find suitable replacements at local sporting goods stores or online.
Be sure to select a grip with the same size and type as your previous one, or pick something that snugly fits around your pole.
You might need to bring in your poles when shopping for this item too!
- Screwdrivers: A small screwdriver set should work just fine – however, it’s important to choose an appropriate tool according to the screws on your ski pole.
- Clamps
- Rubbing alcohol: Removes any residue from both parts and ensures better adherence between them once you have finished replacing grips.
- Hairdryer
- Lubricant
- A cloth, sponge, or brush
- Soap
Step-by-Step Ski Pole Grips Replacement Guide
Replacing ski pole grips requires some patience. Here are the detailed steps to help you replace your ski pole grips:
Also read how to replace different ski pole baskets types here.
Step 1: Remove The Old Grips
- Inspect the old grips for any screws that might be holding them in place. These screws are usually found on top of the grip or on the sides where the grip meets the pole’s shaft.
If screws are present, remove them with an appropriate screwdriver.
- Pop-out plugs: If screws are hidden behind rubber or plastic plugs, gently pop them out with a small flathead screwdriver or your fingertips.
- Twist or pull the grip off the shaft: To release the grip, check to see if it is threaded onto the shaft. If this is the case, twist it anticlockwise until it detaches.
If it isn’t thread-mounted to the pole’s surface, use some extra force to remove it with a clamp or vice grip.
When doing this, take care not to scratch or harm either part.
- Apply heat/lubricant as needed: If adhesive residue keeps hold of your grip tightly, soften up this bond by utilizing a hairdryer or heat gun around its circumference.
Take caution and avoid open flames due to aerosolized lubricants being flammable materials!
Alternatively, spray WD-40 lubricant around that region, which will help loosen up stuck parts too.
Step 2: Clean The Poles
After removing the old grips, clean the pole shafts thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or adhesive residue.
You can use a cloth, sponge, or brush, along with mild soap and water, to clean the poles.
Make sure to dry them thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Prepare The New Grips
Before you fix the new pair of ski pole grips, make sure they will fit your poles.
Double-check the manufacturer’s instructions or specifications to guarantee that the grips are compatible with your poles’ size, shape, and attachment method.
This way, you can be confident in knowing that the new grips will work perfectly!
To make installing new grips on your poles easier, apply rubbing alcohol inside them. This will reduce friction and allow you to slide the grip onto your pole easily.
Step 4: Put On The New Grips
Position each new grip with its open end towards the pole tip and ensure they are straightened properly along the shafts.
Make sure there is no misalignment before you go any further.
Afterwards start sliding each grip onto its pole shaft with strong yet gentle pressure.
Keep applying even force and slightly twist them as you push them down until they are firmly seated against the handles of their respective poles.
Step 5: Secure The Grips
Next you need to securely tighten screws or adjust straps.
With the correct screwdriver, reinsert and firmly fasten your grips. But don’t overdo it; too much pressure can damage both your grips and pole shafts.
If you use adjustable straps instead of screws, make sure they fit snugly to provide a comfortable experience.
Afterwards verify that the grips are still properly aligned with the pole shafts after securing them. Adjust if necessary to ensure that the grips are straight and snug.
Step 6: Test The Grips
After properly adjusting your poles, take a few steps to ensure that the straps and grips fit snugly.
You should experience an even balance with no looseness when relying on your poles for stability; if you’re uncomfortable in any way, make sure to readjust accordingly.
Also read our guide on skiing without poles.
Bottom Line
Before purchasing new poles, consider replacing the worn-out grips instead – this economical solution will bring them back to their original condition and ensure that you can continue enjoying skiing with your favorite poles.
You don’t have to be a professional ski technician to replace your ski pole grips. We showed you how easy it is to do in just a few simple steps!
Remember, poles require regular maintenance and cleaning so make sure to inspect your poles at least once a season for any signs of wear and tear.
Be sure to replace grips if they become worn or damaged, and tighten any loose screws as needed.
