Pole Grip Aids: Best for Sweaty vs Dry Skin
Pick your grip aid by skin type. For sweaty hands, use a drying product such as Dry Hands (about $13) or an antiperspirant like Tite Grip (about $11–12) before class. For dry skin that slips, use something that adds tack or moisture, such as Dew Point spray or iTac2 on body contact points, never on your palms. Check your studio’s rules first: some ban sticky products on shared poles.
Pole grip aids compared
| Product | Type | Best for | Where to apply | Typical US price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Hands | Drying liquid | Sweaty hands | Palms | ~$13 |
| Tite Grip | Antiperspirant lotion | Very sweaty hands | Palms, 30–60 min before | ~$11–12 |
| iTac2 | Beeswax paste | Dry skin | Body contact points, not palms | ~$14–15 |
| Dew Point | Glycerin spray | Dry skin, cold rooms | Body | ~$20 |
| Mighty Grip gloves | Tack-strip gloves | Very sweaty hands, beginners | Hands | ~$25 |
| Liquid chalk | Alcohol and chalk | Mild sweat | Hands | Varies; leaves residue |
The best pole grip aids
Dry Hands
The usual first grip aid and the one most studios allow. Spread a pea-sized amount on clean palms and let it dry for about 15 seconds before touching the pole.
Tite Grip
Reduces sweat rather than adding tack, so it works well under other products. Comes in an extra-strength version.
iTac2
Adds tack to dry skin on knees, elbows and other contact points. Keep it off your palms, where it mixes with sweat. Some studios ban it on shared poles because of residue.
Dew Point
A spray that adds moisture to very dry skin. Pick the strength for your climate and spray on the body, not your hands or the pole.
Mighty Grip gloves
An option when lotions are not enough. Check your studio allows them, as some teachers prefer you learn skin grip first. Reviews are mixed.
Studio rules on grip aids
Rules vary. Some studios only allow drying products like Dry Hands, some only from intermediate level, and some ban sticky products such as iTac2 on shared poles because of allergies, hygiene and residue. Competitions often ban grip aids on the pole itself while allowing them on the body. Always ask before your first class.
How to clean grip aid off your pole
- Wipe from top to bottom with a microfibre cloth and pole cleaner or diluted dish soap.
- Rinse with a damp cloth, then buff dry.
- Use isopropyl alcohol only occasionally for stubborn spots.
- Avoid citrus or solvent cleaners and abrasive cloths, which can dull the finish.
For your own pole, see our best pole for home guide on finishes and grip.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best grip aid for sweaty hands?
A drying product such as Dry Hands or an antiperspirant like Tite Grip, applied before class. Avoid wax products like iTac2 on your palms, as they mix with sweat.
What should I use if my skin is too dry to grip?
Choose something that adds tack or moisture, such as Dew Point spray or iTac2 on body contact points. Drying products can make very dry skin slip more.
Do studios ban iTac2?
Some do, citing allergies, hygiene and residue on shared poles. Body-only use is often allowed. Ask your studio first.
How do I apply Dry Hands?
Start with clean, dry hands, spread a pea-sized amount over your palms and let it dry for about 15 seconds before touching the pole. Reapply between runs if needed.
How do I clean grip aid off a pole?
Wipe top to bottom with a microfibre cloth and pole cleaner or diluted dish soap, rinse, then buff dry. Use isopropyl alcohol only occasionally.
Can I mix grip aids?
Yes. Many dancers layer them, for example an antiperspirant first and then a drying lotion. Keep layers thin to avoid build-up on the pole.
Sources
- Polepedia: Grip aid guide
- Polesphere: The ultimate grip guide (polesphere.com)
- Pole Fit Freedom: Grip aids compared
- Tite Grip (titegrip.com)
- iTac2 (itac2.com)
Keep reading
What to wear to pole class · Pole dancing clothes · Best pole for home · Stage poles