Best handlebar tape for grip and comfort in 2023

From traditional cork to laser-cut synthetics, the perfect handlebar tape provides all-important grip and cushioning for your hands while you’re putting in the miles...

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By Fin Cousins

Published: July 31, 2023 at 10:20 am

A subtle detail, maybe, but handlebar tape is a crucial part of your cycling experience. Many of us may be guilty of paying too much attention to our lower body and not enough on our grip on the bars.

The tape plays a pivotal role in providing comfort, grip and control throughout your ride.

Getting the right tape can give you more confidence and provide a base for improving your speed. Not to mention, it can elevate the look of your bike.

Below, we run through some top picks, including various options for texture, budget and aesthetics.

For an affordable option, this handlebar tape from BBB Cycling is crafted from EVA-foam, which aims to maintain grip and help riders control their bikes. It also features a waterproof adhesive, said to keep performance up in wet weather.

The foam is designed to absorb shocks and reduce impact on the arms when riding over rougher surfaces, which can be hard on the elbow and shoulder joints.

There are 12 colour options, ranging from subtle to vibrant, which can help you find a style that matches your bike and gear.

The tape also features a stretch, which BBB Cycling claims ensures complete coverage for handlebars of all sizes, as well as finish tape and handlebar plugs.

Silca’s Nastro Fiore is a premium option for riders wanting a low-profile tape. It’s 2.5mm thick, but Silca claims it offers cushioning equivalent to 3.2mm to absorb shocks.

There are butterfly insertions for contouring around notches and components, silicon-printed graphics and moderate grip texture.

The Nastro Fiore also features custom laminates, along with a 3M visco-elastic adhesive, which Silca claims enhances durability and bonding. It’s complete with finishing tape and aluminium etched plugs.

Another affordable option, Alien Pros’ handlebar tape features a frosted bike tape skin, with a perforated texture which the brand claims can absorb sweat and provide long-lasting grip.

Alien Pros claims riders also benefit from the anti-slip technology being weatherproof, able to withstand rain or snow. The tape is made from a PU foam, which is designed to provide padding while out on the road.

It comes with end caps to keep the tape in place and is said to have enough length to wrap around all handlebar types and shapes. Installation is designed to be simple, with a gel adhesive that can be wrapped around the bars and sealed.

The popular Microtex performance tape from Fizik has been revamped, with a length extended by 20cm and an array of colours to choose from.

Fizik’s Tempo bar tape is a thicker option, coming in at 3mm. Its shock-absorption is provided by a foam padding which is bonded to a Microtex outer layer.

Fizik says the outer is robust, featuring a perforated leather-like texture with a smooth surface to help transitions between riding positions.

The stripes that adorn the UCI world championship jersey is one of the most iconic symbols in cycling. There’s an illustrious history of champions and records, which Cinelli give riders the chance to take part in with these colours.

The tape is made from a cork powder with a polyurethane mix, which is designed to be a traditional feel with secure grip.

It comes with finishing tape and chrome-look striped plugs. It’s certainly eye-catching – just make sure you can keep up the pace.

Specialized’s S-Wrap tape features a diamond texture, which the brand claims ensures solid grip and control over your handlebars.

Underneath the diamond textured outer later there’s a gel backing which Specialized says not only adds cushioning for a more comfortable ride but also absorbs road vibrations.

This could help to reduce hand fatigue during long journeys and give you confidence over various terrain. It’s also said to be easy to re-wrap on other handlebars for future reusability.

Selle San Marco’s tape is said to offer a lightweight feel with gel padding for shock absorption.

It’s made from the brand’s EVA plus material, which is said to provide responsive grip for changing hand position at speed.

There are three colours to choose from, including black, white and a striking red.

Handlebar tape is commonly made from materials like cork, foam, synthetic rubber or gel. Each material offers different levels of grip, comfort and durability.

Cork tape provides a traditional feel, while foam and gel offer more cushioning for longer rides.

Handlebar tapes are available in various thicknesses, ranging from 2mm for a more direct road feel to 3.5mm and above for maximum cushioning and comfort.

Gel layers lead to an increased thickness and can help with hand fatigue and shock reduction.

The choice of thickness depends on individual preferences and the desired level of grip and vibration absorption during cycling.

Look for a tape with a texture that suits your grip preferences. Some tapes have a smooth surface, while others feature patterns or textures that provide enhanced grip.

It’s also advisable to look out for tape that is designed to maintain its grip in wet conditions.

Top image credit: Josh Nuttall/Unsplash

Fin Cousins is a digital writer for Our Media’s special interest brands. He works across BBC Science Focus and 220 Triathlon, offering recommendations for the latest tech, innovative gadgets, and state-of-the-art training gear.

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