In this article, we are going to assume that you have decided to replace the grips on all of your clubs. Maybe your old grips are worn down, or maybe you picked up a new set of clubs and you don’t like the grips that came installed on them from the manufacturer. Whatever the case, there are a few things you need to know about shopping for grips before you make a purchase.

• Set your budget. While buying new grips is not the most expensive purchase you will have to make as a golfer, they certainly aren’t free. And, as you will find when you start shopping, grip prices can vary pretty dramatically from brand to brand, and model to model. Before you attempt to settle on a specific grip, take a quick look at what’s available and set a budget for this purchase. Remember, if you are doing your full set, you’ll likely need 13 regular grips (since your putter is in a different category when it comes to grips). So, whatever the price of the grip is, multiply that number by 13 to come up with a total cost.
• They don’t all have to match. You are not obligated in any way to use the same grips throughout your entire set. While most golfers will decide to match their grips across the board, there is nothing in the rules requiring you to do so. For instance, some players find that they like different grips on their wedges than on the rest of the clubs, or maybe you have found a grip that you love for your driver – but nothing else. You can start out the shopping process with the idea of finding one grip for your entire set, but understand that you can mix and match if that works best for you.
• Cord or no cord? One of the big points to think about when grip shopping is whether or not you want corded grips. Corded grips have cords running up the length of the grip, embedded in the rubber. Those who love corded grips sing their praises because of the tremendous friction offered between your hands and the grip itself. However, this friction can come at a cost. These types of grips may be tough on your hands, causing blisters and other sore spots along the way. If you opt for cord grips, and you have not used them before, be prepared for a period of transition where they are tough on your hands. Eventually, your skin should adapt and callous over in all the right spots.
• Think about weather. The weather that you usually encounter when playing golf should play a role in your grip shopping process. For instance, someone who plays frequently in rainy conditions is going to need a different kind of performance from their grips than someone who plays in the desert. If you play in cold weather, consider using softer grips to dampen the vibrations that you may get coming up through the shaft on a brisk morning. Every golfer knows the uncomfortable feeling of hitting a thin shot in cold weather, and that feeling can be made even worse when you have hard grips.
• Think about sweat. If you tend to have sweaty hands, you will want to make sure that your new grips are going to provide enough traction for you to hold the club comfortably. You can also help this issue by wearing a glove, but that it only going to do so much. It will be the combination of a golf club and quality grips that allows you to make confident swings without any slippage.

Even if you tend to do most of your shopping online these days, it is still a good idea to look for grips in person. By shopping in a golf store, you can feel the grips for yourself and decide which you like best. Also, if you have never before shopped for grips, the salesperson at the store may be able to help you by providing some valuable tips and information. Take your time and consider a variety of models before making your final selection.