Get a Grip on Your Game: A Guide to the Best Grips & Polishes
Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or an athlete on a footy field, the right grip can significantly enhance your performance. While the term “Grippo” is often used broadly in Australian sports, there’s a world of specialised grip products designed for specific needs. You may have even seen players at the highest levels of the AFL or NRL using these types of products to gain a competitive advantage.
So, what makes each grip different, and which one is the right choice for you? Let’s explore some of the most popular options and how they can help you be your best.
The Iconic Polish: Henselite Grippo Tube
Henselite Grippo is the original and world’s largest-selling bowls polish, a reputation earned through decades of performance. It is expertly designed to keep your bowls in prime condition, assisting with a light grip while adding a beautiful shine. To get the best polish for lawn bowls, apply sparingly to the surface of the bowl, allow it to dry, and then polish with a soft bowls cloth or polishing sleeve. We highly recommend using it in conjunction with a Henselite Deluxe Polishing Sleeve, Polishing Cloth or a Dri Tec Towel. Grippo can be used in conjunction with Wilgrip, for extra grip and hold on your bowl.
The Versatility of Henselite Wilgrip
Wilgrip is a time-tested, multi-purpose sports grip that provides the extra tackiness needed in wet conditions. For lawn bowlers seeking a strong, reliable hold on their bowl, Wilgrip can be applied directly to the finger tips. For sports where racquets or clubs are involved, it can be applied directly to the grip or handle.
With over 50 years of trust from elite football and rugby clubs, Wilgrip’s effectiveness is well-established, making it a powerful tool for use in all ball sports.
By spreading your fingers and palms with a small amount, Wilgrip will offer improved control and can help reduce hand muscle fatigue. It’s an ideal choice for any sport where sure ball handling is essential. Wilgrip is available in a convenient tube for individual use or a bulk tin for clubs.
The All-in-One Solution: Betts Bowls Grip
Betts Bowls Grip is a proven performer that provides exceptional grip, especially in challenging wet conditions. It is a popular choice among bowlers who want to ensure a confident and controlled delivery every time. To use, take a small amount of Betts Bowls’ Grip and rub it onto your hands and massage all over the bowl until it begins to feel “tacky”. This method enhances your hold on the bowl, giving you the control you need to execute your shot with confidence.
Convenience in a Can: Champion Grip Spray
Champion Grip Spray is a hands-off approach to grip and polish. This convenient spray helps you achieve a consistent and reliable hold, even when conditions are damp. To apply, vigorously shake the can for 10 seconds, then hold it about 10cm (4 inches) from the bowl and gently spray a fine mist onto the surface. You can then polish in your usual manner, preferably with a Henselite Deluxe Polishing Sleeve or Cloth for best results. It’s a great option for those who prefer the speed and ease of a spray format.
In your Pocket on the Go: Bulldog Grip and Henselite Stick-E-Cloth
Some other options also available include Bulldog Grip, a solid block which you can store in your pocket whilst bowling. Bulldog Grip can be used to keep hands dry and provide you with a smooth controlled delivery.
Or if you prefer your grip and cloth combined, the Henselite Stick-E-Cloth is a great choice. The Henselite Stick-E-Cloth is a grip enhancement cloth that will assist you to hold your bowl in wet, humid, sweaty or cold conditions. Keep it whole or cut it into small pieces and store a small section in your pocket to rub on your fingers and provide instant grip.
A Note on AFL and “Grippo”
If your search for “AFL Grippo” led you here, you’re on the right track! Although it’s not actually our Grippo that you’re after, it’s Wilgrip. Wilgrip is specifically engineered to give players the superior control they need, especially in wet and slippery conditions. Wilgrip has been the proven concentrated sports grip used by AFL, NRL, and Rugby at the professional and community level for over half a century.
Ultimately, whether you’re polishing your bowls or working to secure a mark on the footy field, selecting the right grip can give you a tangible advantage. By understanding the distinct benefits and application methods of each product, you can make an informed choice and be your best on the green or the field.
