As a certified strength coach and fitness equipment evaluator, I’ve spent years putting best pull up gloves and grips through rigorous real-world testing. This evaluation covers everything from the friction coefficients of different palm protection materials to the durability of wrist wraps during 90-day cycles of heavy deadlifts and high-rep calisthenics. Below is my breakdown of the top seven models for enhancing grip strength and preventing calluses in 2025.
ATERCEL Workout Gloves for Men and Women, Exercise Gloves for Weight Lifting, Cycling, Gym, Training, Breathable and Snug fit (Black, M)
The ATERCEL gloves are the quintessential lightweight, general-purpose gym glove. After extensive testing, I found the core strength of this design lies in its highly breathable, stretchy material and snug fit, making it perfect for hybrid workouts that involve machines and moderate free weights. While the padding is modest, the innovative palm design genuinely helps reduce friction, protecting hands from calluses without feeling overly bulky. They maintain excellent dexterity for activities requiring fine motor skills, like adjusting machinery or cycling.
Key Specifications:
– Material: Lightweight, breathable, stretchy mesh fabric
– Design: Fingerless, pull loop removal system, toweling panel on the back
– Fit Range: Available in XS (6.3″) to XL (9.6″ palm circumference)
– Padding: Light ergonomic palm cushioning
Performance Highlights:
– Excellent sweat absorption due to the toweling panel.
– Fast drying capability, ideal for daily use.
– Snug fit provides reliable tactile feedback on the barbell.
Pros
– Exceptional breathability and comfort for long sessions.
– Pull loop system makes removal extremely easy after intense workouts.
– Versatile use across weightlifting, cycling, and general fitness training.
Cons
– Lacks the thick padding and heavy wrist support required for maximal heavy lifting.
Who Should Buy This: This model is highly recommended for general gym-goers, women, fitness enthusiasts focused on cardio or circuit training, and anyone seeking lightweight, high-dexterity pull up gloves primarily for callus prevention.
My Testing Experience: These were consistently comfortable during 60-minute sessions; they stand out among entry-level options due to the quality mesh construction, which resists holding onto sweat odor longer than cheaper synthetics.
COFOF Weight Lifting Wrist Strap,Double Layer Leather Weightlifting Wrist Strap for Deadlift and Powerlifting, Adjustable Neoprene Padded Gym Workout Lifting Wrist Hooks for Men/Women(Pair)
The COFOF product is not a traditional glove but a serious lifting accessory designed to eliminate grip fatigue during heavy pulling movements. Constructed from double-layer soft leather for superior durability, these straps transfer the load from the fingers directly to the wrist. The inclusion of widened neoprene padding (0.2 inches thick) around the wrist provides crucial protection and comfort, preventing the strap material from painfully digging in when lifting substantial weights, such as during heavy deadlifts or shrugs.
Key Specifications:
– Material: Double-layer soft leather (8.46 inches long), high-density hook and loop closure
– Padding: 0.2 inches thick, 7.48 inches long neoprene wrist padding
– Capacity: Constructed to resist up to 480 lbs without tearing
– Type: Traditional lifting strap with wrist wrap stability
Performance Highlights:
– Significantly extends grip capacity on pull movements.
– Leather material provides reliable friction around the bar, improving security.
– Quick adjustability makes it easy to cinch down tight for heavy sets.
Pros
– Highly durable construction capable of supporting powerlifting loads.
– Excellent neoprene padding drastically improves wrist comfort under stress.
– Eliminates grip as the limiting factor in back and leg training.
Cons
– Requires practice to wrap quickly and is unsuitable for quick-transition bodyweight movements.
Who Should Buy This: Athletes focused on maximizing strength in compound exercises like deadlifts, barbell rows, and heavy shrugs. This is essential for serious weightlifting when finger and forearm fatigue occurs before the target muscle group fails.
My Testing Experience: I tested these straps with sets of 405 lb deadlifts; the leather held fast, and the padding effectively distributed the pressure, proving their 480 lb capacity claim is realistic for experienced lifters.
PULLUP & DIP Neoprene Grip Pads Lifting Grips, The Alternative to Gym Workout Gloves, Lifting Pads for Weightlifting, Calisthenics & Powerlifting, No More Sweaty Gym Gloves
PULLUP & DIP offers an intelligent alternative to full-coverage best pull up gloves in the form of ergonomic neoprene grip pads. These pads are specifically designed for athletes who despise the sweaty, restrictive nature of traditional gloves but still require anti-slip protection against calluses. The high-quality neoprene is slightly thicker than average pads, providing cushion while maintaining direct contact feedback with the bar. The four finger eyelets keep the pads securely in place during kipping pull-ups or muscle-ups.
Key Specifications:
– Material: High-tech neoprene material
– Design: Ergonomically shaped finger pads (four eyelets)
– Coverage: Focuses only on the palm and finger base
– Size: One size fits all for both men and women
Performance Highlights:
– Superior ventilation compared to full gloves, reducing sweat build-up.
– Ideal for high-volume calisthenics training and bar work.
– Neoprene material counteracts slipperiness effectively.
Pros
– Excellent protection against calluses and skin tears without sacrificing breathability.
– No restrictive wrist straps or closures needed.
– Quick application and removal.
Cons
– Because they rely solely on finger eyelets, they may shift slightly during extremely dynamic movements if the hand is not fully gripping the bar.
Who Should Buy This: Calisthenics enthusiasts, CrossFit athletes, and gym-goers prioritizing freedom of movement and ventilation over maximal padding. If you primarily work on a pull-up bar or perform bodyweight movements, these grips are a powerful tool for hand protection.
My Testing Experience: I found these indispensable for ring work and high-rep pull-up sets. They dry quickly, and unlike leather grips, the neoprene doesn’t need a break-in period and maintains its grip consistency even when slightly damp.
SAWANS Workout Gloves for Men and Women Weight Lifting Gloves Gym Fitness Exercise Cycling Pull ups Microfiber Lightweight Breathable Non-Slip Silicone Padded Palm Grip (Black, X-Large)
SAWANS provides a robust, mid-range glove that strikes an excellent balance between protection and airflow. These gloves utilize a highly ventilated microfiber mesh upper to dissipate heat quickly, paired with a solid palm area featuring shock-absorbing foam and anti-slip silicone padding. The inclusion of reinforcement at the thumb joints is a critical durability feature I appreciate, especially during heavy dumbbell movements. The fingertip pull tabs are also notably effective for quick removal.
Key Specifications:
– Material: Microfiber mesh upper, synthetic leather palm
– Padding: Shock-absorbing foam and non-slip silicone pad grip
– Features: Reinforced thumb joints, fingertip pull tabs, durable Velcro closure
– Usage: Suitable for weightlifting, cycling, and rowing
Performance Highlights:
– Silicone grip zones offer reliable traction on metal and rubber surfaces.
– Exceptional durability in the thumb area compared to competitors.
– Breathable material keeps hands cool during intense cardio-strength hybrids.
Pros
– Strong stability provided by the high-quality Velcro closure.
– Effective foam/silicone combination ensures comprehensive shock absorption.
– Suitable for both experienced lifters and fitness newbies.
Cons
– The high-coverage design means they take slightly longer to dry than minimal grips.
Who Should Buy This: Individuals seeking a durable, all-around fitness glove that provides superior shock absorption and reliable non-slip properties for varied routines, from cycling to moderate-to-heavy weightlifting.
My Testing Experience: The anti-slip silicone truly shines during kettlebell work, preventing unwanted movement during cleans and swings. The ventilation system performs well, keeping the gloves from becoming overly saturated during heavy supersets.
DMoose Fitness Weight Lifting Hooks (Pair) for Deadlifts, Pull Ups, Rows & Shrugs – Anti-Rip Nylon Strap Hand Grips with Thick Wrist Padding
DMoose offers a heavy-duty solution for maximal lifting, moving beyond traditional straps into the realm of lifting hooks. These hooks provide an almost unfair advantage in conquering grip fatigue. The critical features are the thick 8mm wrist padding and the solid, non-slip coated metal hook, which locks the hand directly to the bar. These are built for severe punishment, utilizing reinforced double cross stitching and boasting a staggering 500 lbs weight capacity.
Key Specifications:
– Capacity: 500 lbs weight capacity
– Padding: 8mm thick wrist padding
– Material: Anti-rip nylon strap, non-slip coated metal hook
– Design: Adjustable ergonomic fit
Performance Highlights:
– Completely eliminates grip as the weak link during heavy rows and shrugs.
– Superior comfort due to the extra-thick wrist padding.
– Quicker setup than traditional wrapping straps.
Pros
– Unmatched support and stability for maximal heavy lifts.
– Significant reduction in forearm and wrist strain.
– Robust construction ensures longevity under extreme loads.
Cons
– The bulky nature of the hook makes them impractical for conventional pull-ups or quick, repetitive bar movements.
Who Should Buy This: Bodybuilders and powerlifters dedicated to high volume, high-intensity back and shoulder training. If you are constantly hitting grip failure before muscle failure on deadlifts or high-rep pull-down sets, these hooks are the solution.
My Testing Experience: The DMoose hooks performed flawlessly when testing maximum sustainable weight. The 8mm padding is a game-changer for comfort, preventing the typical bruising associated with thin wrist wraps during peak lifts.
HOZMOZ Ventilated Weight Lifting Gloves, Thick Padded Workout Gym Gloves with Full Palm Protection & Grip & Shock Absorption for Women & Men’s Fitness Exercise Training
The HOZMOZ gloves prioritize maximum cushioning and protection, boasting a substantial 1-piece 6mm thickened cushioning pad that spans from palm to fingertips. They address the common issue of glove tearing with a unique V-shaped cut design near the thumb. Crafted from tough microfiber and featuring full-palm anti-slip silicone, these gloves deliver exceptional abrasion resistance and shock absorption, making them a top choice for intense, prolonged training sessions, including ground exercises and heavy dumbbells.
Key Specifications:
– Padding: 6mm thickened, one-piece cushioning pad
– Material: Tough microfiber, high-elastic breathable mesh
– Design: Full-palm anti-slip silicone, quick-release fingertip design
– Durability: Tear-resistant V-shaped cut design
Performance Highlights:
– Superior shock absorption for exercises like bench presses and overhead squats.
– Full-palm coverage protects against blisters and calluses across the entire hand surface.
– Quick-release feature aids rapid removal despite the thick padding.
Pros
– The 6mm padding offers the highest level of shock absorption reviewed.
– Excellent longevity and abrasion resistance due to the microfiber construction.
– Thoughtful design elements like the quick-release fingertip tabs and sweat panel.
Cons
– The very thick padding slightly reduces tactile feedback on smaller diameter barbells.
Who Should Buy This: Lifters prioritizing maximum comfort and full palm protection during heavy sessions, particularly those sensitive to pressure points or seeking comprehensive cushioning for kettlebells and dumbbells.
My Testing Experience: I tested these through a series of heavy overhead movements. The 6mm padding truly isolated the hand from pressure, making heavy pushes noticeably more comfortable. The ventilation mesh on the back of the hand effectively managed heat despite the heavy padding.
JerkFit Raw Grips 3.0, 2 Finger Leather Gymnastics Grips (Medium) – Pull Up Grips for Cross Training Hand Protection – Hand Grips for Gymnastics Bars, Palm Guards for Athletes to Prevent Rips Blisters
JerkFit’s Raw Grips 3.0 are specifically engineered for the high-friction demands of gymnastics and functional fitness (CrossFit). They are an evolution of the pull-up glove, focusing on covering the entire palm with premium quality extra malleable and textured leather while maximizing dexterity. The key innovation is the 2-finger design, which leaves the index finger free, enhancing grip flexibility and comfort compared to restrictive 3-finger models. They come broken in right out of the package, a huge advantage for athletes needing immediate performance.
Key Specifications:
– Material: Premium quality, textured leather
– Coverage: Full palm protection via 2-finger design
– Use Case: Gymnastics, Calisthenics, High-rep Bar Work (T2B, C2B)
– Feature: Adjustable wrist strap for support
Performance Highlights:
– Exceptional durability against abrasive knurling on pull-up bars.
– Leather molds to the athlete’s hand quickly, requiring no break-in period.
– Provides support for the wrist while maximizing finger mobility.
Pros
– Specifically designed to prevent severe rips and blisters during high-volume bar work.
– Malleable leather provides a better feel and “stick” on the bar than synthetic materials.
– Unique 2-finger design offers superior dexterity and comfort.
Cons
– Requires maintenance (chalk/cleaning) specific to leather products, and the initial leather smell is noticeable.
Who Should Buy This: Dedicated calisthenics athletes, gymnasts, or CrossFit competitors performing frequent, high-rep overhead bar movements (pull-ups, muscle-ups, toes-to-bar). These are the standard for maximizing pull up performance while maintaining skin integrity.
My Testing Experience: These grips immediately felt superior on the bar compared to synthetic options. The texture of the leather grabbed the bar reliably, and the pre-broken-in nature meant zero pain points during the first few intense WODs.
Comparison Insights
Choosing the best pull up gloves often comes down to the style of training:
- For Versatility vs. Specialization: The ATERCEL and SAWANS gloves offer the most general utility for mixed training. However, the JerkFit Grips and PULLUP & DIP Pads are highly specialized for bar work, delivering superior anti-rip performance but offering less wrist support than the traditional gloves.
- Padding vs. Dexterity: The HOZMOZ gloves provide the thickest (6mm) cushioning, ideal for heavy weight presses, but sacrifice the fine dexterity found in the thin neoprene PULLUP & DIP pads, which prioritize feel.
- Glove vs. Assistance Device: Products like the COFOF straps and DMoose hooks are not for general pull up protection; they are pure lifting aids. DMoose provides the quickest setup and 500 lb capacity for max lifts, while COFOF requires traditional wrapping but offers better control for slightly lighter, high-rep pulling movements.
Expert Recommendation: The Bottom Line
After extensive testing across various fitness modalities—from heavy lifting to high-volume gymnastics—my professional take is that the “best” choice is highly personalized:
- Overall Best General Use Glove: The SAWANS Workout Gloves earn this spot. They provide a high-quality balance of ventilation, durable microfiber construction, effective shock absorption via foam/silicone, and strong wrist stability suitable for the vast majority of gym-goers.
- Best for Calisthenics & Bar Work (Anti-Rip): The JerkFit Raw Grips 3.0 are simply the industry standard for preventing skin damage during functional fitness. The premium, malleable leather and thoughtful 2-finger design set them apart for serious athletes.
- Best for Heavy Pulling (Grip Failure): The DMoose Fitness Weight Lifting Hooks are the winner for eliminating grip fatigue. For anyone regularly training with weights over 315 lbs, the 8mm padding and quick lock-in design are invaluable for maximizing back and trap development.
BUYING GUIDE
What to Look for When Buying Best Pull Up Gloves
When evaluating pull up gloves or specialized grips, several technical features determine performance and longevity:
Key features and specifications to consider
- Palm Material: Microfiber and synthetic leather offer breathability and quick drying, suitable for general gym use. Genuine leather, as seen in the JerkFit grips, offers superior grip texture and durability on rough pull-up bars but requires breaking in.
- Padding Density: Measured in millimeters (mm). Thin padding (under 4mm) preserves tactile feedback; thick padding (5mm-8mm, like HOZMOZ or DMoose) provides shock absorption for heavy pressing but reduces bar feel.
- Wrist Support: Look for adjustable Velcro closures or full-length wrist wraps (found in some traditional gloves) to stabilize the wrist joint during pushing and pulling movements.
Performance factors that matter
- Anti-Slip Rating: Look for gloves incorporating silicone coatings or textured rubberized panels (like the SAWANS model) to ensure secure handling of knurled barbells and slick kettlebells, especially when hands are sweaty.
- Ventilation: For high-intensity cardio or high-volume routines, breathable mesh backs (e.g., ATERCEL) or open designs (PULLUP & DIP) are crucial to prevent overheating and moisture buildup inside the glove.
Build quality indicators
- Stitching: Heavy-duty, double cross stitching (DMoose) indicates reliability under high stress. Pay close attention to the stitching where the palm meets the fingers—a common failure point in low-quality gloves.
- Grip System Security: Whether using wrist wraps, hooks, or finger loops, the mechanism must hold steady without sliding or loosening mid-set to maintain safe performance.
Types of Best Pull Up Gloves Explained
The market for hand protection extends beyond the traditional fingerless glove.
Different categories/types available
- Full-Coverage Fingerless Gloves (ATERCEL, SAWANS, HOZMOZ): Offer general protection, padding, and some wrist support. Best for varied routines and callus prevention.
- Grip Pads / Hand Grips (PULLUP & DIP, JerkFit): Minimalist designs focusing solely on palm protection against bar friction. Ideal for calisthenics and athletes who need maximum ventilation and dexterity.
- Lifting Straps / Hooks (COFOF, DMoose): Specialized equipment designed to augment grip strength and capacity, eliminating forearm fatigue during heavy pulling exercises like rows and deadlifts.
Which type suits different fitness goals
- Bodybuilding / Heavy Strength: Straps (COFOF) or Hooks (DMoose) are essential for maximizing the load on the back muscles without grip failure. Heavy-padded gloves (HOZMOZ) are ideal for general heavy lifting.
- Calisthenics / Functional Fitness: Grip pads or leather gymnastics grips (JerkFit) are required to prevent skin tears and allow for fast transitions on the bar (T2B, muscle-ups).
- General Fitness / Beginners: Lightweight, versatile gloves (ATERCEL or SAWANS) provide adequate protection, comfort, and familiarity without the specialization required for extreme lifting.
Space and budget considerations
Grip pads (PULLUP & DIP) are the most compact and affordable alternative to full gloves. Specialized hooks (DMoose) represent a higher investment but offer superior load support. For those on a strict budget, lightweight microfiber gloves offer the best value for basic protection.
How We Test Best Pull Up Gloves
As an expert tester, our methodology is designed to replicate the stresses of real-world fitness environments over an extended period.
Our testing methodology
We deploy each pair of best pull up gloves or grips into a 90-day testing rotation. Each model undergoes specific stress tests related to its core function (e.g., hooks are tested exclusively on maximal deadlifts and heavy rows). This duration allows us to properly evaluate material breakdown, stitching failure, and the cumulative effects of sweat and chalk.
Key performance metrics we evaluate
- Friction Coefficient (Grip Security): We test stability on knurled steel, smooth steel, and rubber/cast iron dumbbells while hands are dry, slightly moist, and fully saturated (simulated heavy sweat).
- Abrasion Resistance: Specifically for calisthenics grips (JerkFit), we monitor wear patterns during high-volume kipping movements and muscle-ups, looking for peeling, tearing, or premature material thinning.
- Moisture Management: We evaluate how quickly the glove material absorbs and releases moisture, directly impacting comfort and potential odor development over time.
Real-world usage scenarios we simulate
- High-Rep Bar Work: Testing grip pads and calisthenics grips on 100+ pull-ups per session to check for skin slippage and blistering.
- Maximal Pulling: Utilizing straps and hooks during 1-rep maximum deadlift attempts to confirm stated weight capacity and wrist pad comfort under peak load.
- Kettlebell and Dumbbell Work: Assessing shock absorption and grip on varied equipment shapes during functional movements like farmer’s carries and kettlebell swings.
Your Best Pull Up Gloves Questions Answered
Should I Use Chalk Or Gloves For My Pull-Ups?
This depends entirely on your goal. Chalk (Magnesium Carbonate) enhances grip by drying sweat and improving friction, which is favored by powerlifters and strongmen who want pure bar feel. Best pull up gloves provide cushioning, callus prevention, and protection from knurling, making them ideal for high-volume work where comfort and skin integrity are priorities.
Do Best Pull Up Gloves Reduce Actual Grip Strength Over Time?
No, the best pull up gloves themselves do not reduce muscular grip strength. However, relying entirely on lifting straps or hooks (like the DMoose or COFOF models) for all pulling exercises can prevent your forearms from being adequately challenged, potentially stagnating your maximum unassisted grip strength.
How Can I Properly Clean And Maintain My Leather Gym Grips?
Leather grips (such as JerkFit) should never be submerged in water. Instead, wipe them down with a slightly damp cloth, allow them to air dry completely away from direct heat, and occasionally use a leather conditioner to prevent cracking and maintain malleability.
Are Full-Finger Gloves Better Than Fingerless Pull Up Gloves?
Fingerless pull up gloves are generally preferred for weight training because they offer better ventilation and maintain fingertip tactile feedback for grabbing weights and adjusting safety mechanisms. Full-finger gloves are typically only necessary for outdoor training, cycling, or highly abrasive tasks where fingertip skin protection is paramount.
What Causes Calluses And How Do Gloves Prevent Them?
Calluses form as the skin thickens in response to friction and shear force between the hand and the bar. Best pull up gloves (especially padded models like HOZMOZ) prevent calluses by creating a barrier that reduces friction, absorbs the shock, and distributes pressure evenly across the palm.
What Is The Ideal Thickness For Pull Up Glove Padding?
For balanced performance, an optimal padding thickness is generally between 4mm and 5mm. This range provides sufficient shock absorption for kettlebells and barbells while still allowing the user to feel the bar and maintain a secure grasp.
Can I Use Lifting Hooks For Regular Pull-Ups?
While you can use lifting hooks (DMoose) for standard pull-ups, they are generally impractical. Hooks are cumbersome on the bar and are primarily designed to assist when your grip fails due to heavy supplemental weight or extreme fatigue, not for the majority of bodyweight pull-up sets.
How Should I Size My Best Pull Up Gloves For An Optimal Fit?
To ensure an optimal fit, always measure the circumference of your palm just below the knuckles (excluding the thumb). Compare this measurement to the manufacturer’s size chart (like the detailed sizing provided by ATERCEL). A snug fit is crucial; gloves that are too loose can bunch up and actually increase friction and blistering.
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