Grip Power Pads vs Traditional Lifting Gloves Review

I am doing a comparison of Grip Power Pads vs traditional lifting gloves. I have always hated the way gloves get sweaty and start to smell and they often bunch up in the palm. I recently tried some pads that you just place between your hand and the bar and they seem much better.

The pads are much more breathable and provide an amazing grip. I also find that I have a better feel for the bar than with thick gloves. I am training in London and I like that these are small enough to fit in my pocket. However I am worried that I might lose them since they are not attached to my hands.

Do you prefer pads or gloves for protecting your hands? I know some lifters say you should just build up calluses but I want to keep my hands relatively smooth. If you have used Grip Power Pads let me know how they have held up for you.

Totally agree with LondonLifting. The sweaty, bunched-up feeling of traditional gloves is just the worst. I switched to some simple palm pads a few months ago and haven't looked back. My hands feel so much freer, and no more soggy gloves to deal with after a heavy session.

I've actually stuck with traditional gloves, primarily for wrist support. The ones I use have integrated wrist wraps, which I find really helps with my heavier lifts like bench press and overhead press. Yes, they get a bit sweaty, but the support outweighs that for me.

I'm a firm believer in grip pads. Specifically, the ones with a slightly tacky surface. They give you all the grip you need without covering your entire hand. I use a brand called 'Bear Grips' and they've been fantastic for deadlifts and pull-ups. No more tearing my palms.

Honestly, just use chalk. It's the purest form of grip aid. Keeps your hands dry, improves friction, and doesn't interfere with your natural grip strength development. Plus, it's cheap as chips.

Pads just feel like a half-measure to me. If you need grip, train your grip. If you want to protect your hands, fine, but don't expect pads to do the work of actual grip strength. Bare hands for deadlifts, always.

I made the switch from gloves to pads about a year ago and honestly, my lifts feel more natural now. My grip strength has actually improved because I'm not relying on the bulky padding of gloves. Plus, no more funky glove smell in my gym bag!

What kind of material are these grip pads usually made of? I've seen some that look like neoprene, others more rubbery. Does the material make a big difference in how they feel or perform?

For anyone on a budget, a cheap pair of gardening gloves with some rubber dots on the palm can honestly work almost as well as dedicated grip pads for light to medium lifting. Not ideal for heavy stuff, but a good starting point.

I'm still a chalk person, hands down. Pads feel like they'd slip or shift, especially on really heavy deads. With chalk, it's just pure, unadulterated friction.

I actually like my calluses. They're like badges of honor, proof of hard work. Pads or gloves just soften your hands too much, and then you're more prone to tearing when you do go bare.

The worst thing about traditional gloves for me was the way they would bunch up at the base of my fingers. It created pinch points and actually made my grip worse, not better. Pads totally solve this.

Has anyone tried using wrist wraps *with* grip pads? I find that I need both for my heavier lifts - wraps for support, pads for grip. Seems to be the best of both worlds without the glove bulk.

How long do grip pads typically last? I'm thinking about making the switch but I don't want to be replacing them every couple of months if they wear out quickly.

@philosopher, depends on usage and brand. My 'Gymshark' grip pads have lasted me over a year of 4-5 times a week lifting. They're showing some wear but still perfectly functional.

As a beginner, this topic is super helpful. I've been using cheap gloves and they're already falling apart and smell awful. Should I just jump straight to pads, or try chalk first? I don't want to hinder my grip strength development.

@johngustilo25, can confirm. My 'Mava Sports' pads have been going strong for nearly 2 years. They're a bit faded but the grip and integrity are still there. Quality stuff lasts.

Honestly, I still prefer traditional lifting gloves, especially for hygiene. They cover your whole hand, providing a barrier against shared gym equipment. And a good pair doesn't bunch up.

I'm with those who say train your grip. I only use chalk for my heaviest deadlifts, otherwise it's just bare hands. Pads or gloves just become a crutch in the long run for most people.

It really depends on your lifting style and goals. Powerlifters might prefer chalk or bare hands for competition feel. Bodybuilders might prefer pads or gloves for comfort and callus prevention. There's no one-size-fits-all here.