A preference for the crust cut off or left intact with PB&J sandwiches is an early choice that a lot of American kids hold onto throughout our lives. Later, with our bicycles, grips and saddles and underwear (or lack thereof) are deeply personal ride elements, and my hands have a noted bias for these PNW Components Loam Grips. With or sans gloves, these things feel fantastic.
A pair of loam grips weigh about 90g with an average diameter of 30mm across their 133.5mm expanse. The single-lock-ring cylinders come in 9 colors and cost a surprisingly low $19 (€16.42). The soft 25a rubber prizes skin-traction over durability, and the grip against your palms is worth replacing them a little more frequently than you might with other grips.
That supple rubber is what makes these touchpoints special. What PNW calls “water-shedding fins” also work well to flex and absorb vibration beneath your fingers, creating a solid and cushioned connection with your skin even when rides become hot and sweaty. If you like to ride gloveless on warm days, the rubber fins that allow rain to exit will do the same for perspiration, eliminating the need to powder your hands with soil before each descent.
While those fishy little fins stand tall and supple, the rubber is not gummy like some softer grips I’ve gripped. After a few months of daily use, the rubber provides consistency and feels similar to the first rip. The taller fins that stand where your fingertips rest are super cozy, and the alternating pattern across the surface creates a positive connection with the hand.
The Loam Grips also match all the other PNW gear, like their dropper post lever, the dropper collar accent, and the logos on their recently updated Range handlebar. I went with the Cement Grey colorway to sit well with other components that will be tested alongside these, but there are certainly spicier options available.
Party laps
- Super grippy
- Cut vibration and add comfort
- Great feel without gloves and when wet
Pros and cons of the PNW Loam Grips.
Dirt naps
- Need to be replaced more frequently
- Not available in glittery gold
I love these. Tried many other options but now have them on both bikes. My hands are really sweaty and the ribs these have keep grip with less hand strength used. Not having to grip the bars as hard really helps with hand pump.