Grip Tape
Wrapping applied to a handle for traction and sweat absorption; in skateboarding, the abrasive sheet bonded to the top of the deck.
Definition
In racket and stick sports, grip tape is a wrap applied around the handle to improve traction, cushioning and moisture control. Players distinguish a replacement grip, the thicker base wrap on the handle, from an overgrip, a thin tacky layer wound over the top and changed frequently as it absorbs sweat.
The term carries a different meaning in skateboarding, where grip tape is the sandpaper-like adhesive sheet bonded to the top of the deck so the rider's feet stay planted. In both cases the shared idea is a replaceable, high-friction surface between the athlete and the equipment.
Meaning by sport
This term is used differently across sports:
- Tennis
- A replacement grip or overgrip wound around the racket handle for tack and sweat absorption.
- Badminton
- Towelling or synthetic grip and overgrip wrapped around the handle to manage sweat and improve hold.
- Skateboarding
- The abrasive, adhesive-backed sheet applied to the top of the deck for foot traction.
Where you’ll hear “grip tape”
Sports that use this term:
Tennis
A singles or doubles racquet sport that blends agility, strategy and stamina on court.
Badminton
A fast indoor racquet sport played with a shuttlecock that rewards agility and touch.
Padel
A sociable, doubles-first racquet sport played in an enclosed court where the walls stay in play.
POP Tennis
A friendly, easy-to-learn racquet sport on a smaller court with solid paddles and a lower net.
Skateboarding
A creative board sport of rolling, balancing and learning tricks on streets, paths and skateparks.
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Disciplines
- StreetStreet skateboarding centers on performing tricks over obstacles like stairs, rails, ledges, and gaps that mirror features found in urban environments.
- VertVert skateboarding is ridden on a large halfpipe whose walls curve to vertical at the top, letting skaters rise above the coping to perform aerial tricks.
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How this page is maintained
- Content type
- Term
- Provenance
- Tier A — evergreen educational
- Verified external sources
- 0
- Content updated
- 2026-09-01
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