The Ultimate Guide to Grip Aids

 When it comes to pole and aerial arts, grip strength is a game-changer. Whether you’re struggling to stick to the pole, slipping off aerial silks, or fighting sweaty hands, grip aids can be the key to unlocking your next move. And let’s clear something up right away—using grip aids is not cheating. Athletes across sports use tools to enhance performance. Think gymnasts with chalk, weightlifters with straps, or rock climbers with liquid chalk. Grip aids in pole and aerial serve the same purpose: they let you focus on improving your technique instead of slipping and sliding.

In this post, we’ll break down some popular grip aids, how to use them, and which ones are best for different skin types and needs.

1. Dry Hands (This is my personal favorite hand grip!)

Best For: Sweaty palms and hot, humid environments
Type: Liquid, anti-sweat formula
How to Use: Apply a pea-sized amount to your hands, and rub until dry

Dry Hands is one of the most well-known and widely used grip aids. It’s perfect if your hands sweat easily or if you’re practicing in a warm, humid studio. The formula dries quickly, leaving no residue, and helps keep your palms dry so you can hold grips longer without slipping. It's ideal for both pole dancers and aerialists working with silks or hoop.

Pro Tip: This works best for people with naturally sweaty or oily skin. If you have dry skin, Dry Hands can leave your hands feeling too chalky and cracked.

2. Tite Grip

Best For: Pre-workout anti-sweat solution
Type: Lotion that reduces sweat over time
How to Use: Apply 30 minutes before your workout for best results

Tite Grip works a little differently than other grip aids. It’s more of a preventative solution, designed to reduce sweat buildup over time. It’s great for those with very sweaty hands and can be layered with other grip aids like chalk or Dry Hands. Just remember to apply it well before your session to get the full benefit.

3. iTac2 (My favorite for body grip!)

Best For: Extra tacky grip; dry skin types
Type: Wax-based grip aid
How to Use: Apply a small amount to hands, thighs, or wherever you need extra grip

If you have dry skin or need extra stick, iTac2 is a lifesaver. This wax-based grip aid is sticky, giving you more grip security on tricky moves like inversions or climbs. iTac2 comes in different strengths, with Level 1 being lighter and Level 4 offering a very tacky finish. Be careful not to over-apply—it’s powerful and a little goes a long way.

Pro Tip: Some studios don’t allow iTac2 because it can leave residue on poles, so check with your instructor before using it.

4. Mighty Grip Powder

Best For: Slippery hands or sweaty feet
Type: Powder grip aid activated by heat
How to Use: Dust lightly on hands or feet before starting your session

Mighty Grip Powder is popular with both pole dancers and aerialists. It activates with body heat, so it works best after you’ve warmed up a bit. This powder-based formula adds just enough tack without being too sticky, making it perfect for routines where you need to switch between holding and sliding.

Pro Tip: Mighty Grip also offers specialty grip aids, such as ones infused with rosin for even more stick or options designed specifically for cold environments.

5. Liquid Chalk (e.g., Friction Labs, Black Diamond)

Best For: Climbing, aerial hoop, and sweaty palms
Type: Liquid chalk (magnesium carbonate-based)
How to Use: Apply a small amount and rub until dry

Liquid chalk is a favorite among rock climbers, and it works great for aerialists too—especially those using aerial hoop. It’s less messy than traditional loose chalk and provides reliable grip on metal apparatuses. Friction Labs and Black Diamond are two solid brands that provide long-lasting grip, even in sweaty conditions.

6. Gorilla Gold Grip Enhancer Towels

Best For: People who need adjustable grip throughout class
Type: Wipe-on grip towel
How to Use: Swipe the towel over your hands, thighs, or equipment

Gorilla Gold towels are unique because they let you control how much grip you get. They work well for people who need to switch between sticky and slick movements throughout a session. Just swipe the towel over your skin or apparatus, and the grip will adjust as needed. This makes them great for both pole and aerial, especially if you’re in a class with mixed disciplines.

7. Cramer Firm Grip

Best For: Those who need strong tack for tricky moves
Type: Spray-on or gel
How to Use: Spray or rub onto hands or key areas for extra grip

Originally developed for athletes like football players, Cramer Firm Grip offers heavy-duty tack. It’s perfect for people who struggle with slipping or need a reliable grip for high-intensity moves. However, it can leave some residue, so use it sparingly and make sure to clean your pole or apparatus after class.

Is Using Grip Aid Cheating?

Absolutely not! Using grip aids isn’t a shortcut—it’s a smart tool. Grip issues can make it hard to build strength and confidence, especially when you’re learning new moves. Grip aids allow you to focus on proper technique and form, rather than worrying about slipping. Think of them the same way weightlifters use chalk, gymnasts use grips, or tennis players use tacky over grips on their rackets.

Over time, as your strength and grip naturally improve, you may find yourself relying less on aids—but even advanced athletes keep them in their toolkit. So, don’t be afraid to use them when you need them. There’s no shame in using tools that help you progress. After all, practice makes progress—and every little bit helps.