If you’ve been playing golf for any length of time, you’ve probably noticed your grips getting slick, hard, or just plain worn out. I remember the first time I looked at regripping my clubs—I was quoted $8-12 per club at the pro shop. With 13 clubs in my bag, that’s over $100 just for labor!

That’s when I decided to learn how to regrip golf clubs myself. After doing it dozens of times over the years, I can tell you: this is one of the easiest golf DIY projects you can tackle. Once you have the supplies and know the process, you can regrip an entire set in about an hour—and save serious money doing it.

Why Should You Regrip Your Golf Clubs?

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s talk about why regripping matters. Your grips are the only contact point between you and the club. Worn grips force you to squeeze harder, which creates tension in your hands, arms, and shoulders—tension that kills your swing.

Here’s what happens when grips wear out:

• Loss of traction – Especially in humid or wet conditions, worn grips become dangerously slippery
• Increased grip pressure – You squeeze harder to compensate, which tightens your swing
• Inconsistent shots – The club can twist in your hands at impact
• Less feel – Hardened rubber deadens the feedback from the clubface

Most manufacturers and teaching pros recommend regripping every 40 rounds or once a year—whichever comes first. If you play frequently or practice a lot, you might need to regrip twice a year.

DIY vs Pro Shop: The Cost Comparison

Let’s break down the real numbers:

Pro Shop Regripping (13 clubs):

• Grips: $5-15 each = $65-195
• Labor: $3-5 per club = $39-65
• Total: $104-260

DIY Regripping (13 clubs):

• Grips: $5-15 each = $65-195
• Grip tape (15-pack): $8-12
• Solvent: $10-15
• Rubber vise clamp: $6-10 (one-time purchase)
• Hook blade/utility knife: $5-10 (one-time purchase)
• First-time total: $94-242
• Future regrips: $73-207 (just grips + tape)

Even on your first DIY regrip, you’ll save money. But the real savings come on subsequent regrips when you already have the tools. You’ll save $40-65 in labor every single time.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to regrip your golf clubs at home. I’ve linked to the exact products I use and recommend:

Essential Supplies

1. Rubber Vise Clamp

A rubber-lined vise clamp holds your club shaft securely without damaging it. This is non-negotiable—trying to regrip without one is frustrating and risky. The rubber padding protects your graphite or steel shafts while you work.

2. Complete Regripping Kit (Recommended for Beginners)

If you’re new to regripping, a complete kit is the way to go. You’ll get a vise clamp, hook blade, solvent, tape strips, and sometimes even sample grips—everything you need in one package at a better price than buying separately.

3. Golf Grip Solvent

Solvent activates the tape adhesive and allows you to slide the grip onto the shaft. Brampton HF-100 is the gold standard—non-toxic, non-flammable, and nearly odorless. Perfect for indoor use in your garage or basement.

4. Double-Sided Grip Tape

You’ll need one strip per club. Pre-cut 2″ x 10″ strips are the most convenient—they wrap perfectly around the shaft with the right overlap. Buy a 15-pack for a full set with a couple extras for mistakes.

5. New Grips

This is where you can really customize your setup. The Golf Pride MCC Plus4 is my top recommendation—the reduced taper in the lower hand promotes lighter grip pressure for better distance and accuracy. Tour-proven and available in multiple colors.

6. Hook Blade or Utility Knife

A hook blade makes removing old grips much safer than a straight utility knife. Most regripping kits include one, or you can find them at any hardware store for a few dollars.

Optional But Helpful

• Grip tape remover tool – Makes scraping off old tape easier
• Bucket or tray – To catch excess solvent
• Paper towels or rags – You’ll need these for cleanup
• Alignment tool – For lining up grip logos (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Regrip Golf Clubs

Alright, let’s get into the actual process. Follow these steps and you’ll have fresh grips in no time.

Step 1: Set Up Your Workspace

Work in a well-ventilated area, even with non-toxic solvent. Lay down newspaper or a drop cloth to protect your work surface. Make sure you have all your supplies within reach.

Step 2: Secure the Club

Place your rubber vise clamp around the shaft just below where the grip ends. Tighten the vise enough to hold the club firmly, but don’t overtighten—you can damage graphite shafts. The club should be angled with the grip end slightly elevated.

Step 3: Remove the Old Grip

Using your hook blade, carefully cut through the old grip lengthwise. Start at the cap end and cut toward the shaft. Always cut away from your body. Once you’ve made the cut, peel the grip off. It should come off in one piece if you’ve cut deep enough.

Pro tip: If the grip is really stuck, squirt some solvent under the edge to help loosen the adhesive.

Step 4: Remove Old Tape

This is often the most tedious part. Peel and scrape off as much old tape as possible. If it’s stubborn, apply solvent and let it soak for a minute—this softens the adhesive. Get the shaft as clean as possible; lumps of old tape will create bumps under your new grip.

Step 5: Apply New Grip Tape

Peel the backing off one side of your grip tape and apply it to the shaft, starting about 1/4″ from the end. Extend the tape about 1/2″ past the end of the shaft—this creates a cap that prevents the grip from sliding off during installation.

Wrap the tape spirally down the shaft, overlapping slightly, until you’ve covered the entire grip area (usually 10-11 inches). Then twist the overhanging tape at the end to seal the shaft opening.

Remove the outer backing to expose the sticky surface.

Step 6: Activate with Solvent

Generously spray or pour solvent over the entire taped area. Make sure it’s thoroughly wet—don’t be shy with the solvent. Work quickly from this point on, as you only have about 30-60 seconds before the solvent starts to dry.

Also spray solvent inside the new grip. Cover the vent hole at the end of the grip with your finger, pour solvent in, then shake it around to coat the inside. Pour the excess back onto the tape.

Step 7: Slide on the New Grip

With everything wet, slide the grip onto the shaft in one smooth motion. Push firmly and steadily—don’t hesitate. The grip should slide on relatively easily if you’ve used enough solvent. Push until the grip is fully seated against the shaft end.

Step 8: Align the Grip

You have about 30 seconds to adjust the grip before the solvent dries. If your grip has a logo or alignment aid, make sure it’s positioned correctly (usually facing up when you address the ball). I like to actually hold the club in my normal grip position to check the alignment feels right.

Step 9: Let It Dry

Set the club aside with the grip end up and let it dry for at least 4-6 hours before using. Overnight is even better. Using the club too soon can cause the grip to twist.

Step 10: Repeat!

Work through your set one club at a time. With practice, you’ll get each club done in about 5 minutes.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Regripping

After regripping dozens of sets, here are my best tips:

• More solvent is better – The #1 beginner mistake is not using enough solvent. The grip should glide on easily.
• Work fast – Once you activate the tape, you’re on the clock. Have everything ready before you start.
• Align immediately – Don’t wait to align the grip. Do it right after you push it on.
• Use air compressor trick – If you have an air compressor, you can blow air into the grip’s vent hole to make it slide on even easier.
• Build up layers for larger grips – Want oversized grips? Add extra wraps of tape under the standard tape.
• Check grip size – Grips come in undersize, standard, midsize, and oversized. Use the size that fits your hands.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not removing all old tape – Bumps and ridges will be noticeable under the new grip
• Cutting toward yourself – Always cut away from your body with the hook blade
• Over-tightening the vise – This can crack graphite shafts
• Using grips before they dry – Wait at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight
• Forgetting to seal the shaft end – That tape overhang at the end is important
• Working too slowly – The solvent evaporates fast; don’t take breaks mid-grip

My Grip Recommendations

The best grip is the one that feels right in your hands, but here are some popular options:

Golf Pride MCC Plus4 – My personal favorite. The Golf Pride MCC Plus4 has a cord upper for traction and a softer rubber lower. The “Plus4” means the lower hand area is built up, reducing grip pressure. These are used by tour pros worldwide.

Lamkin Crossline – The classic choice. These firm, cord-style grips have been around forever and provide excellent feedback. Great for players who like a traditional feel.

SuperStroke S-Tech – These softer grips are great for players who want vibration dampening and a cushioned feel. The no-taper design is popular with players who have grip pressure issues.

Golf Pride CP2 Wrap – If you like the feel of leather wraps, these modern rubber grips replicate that wrapped sensation with better durability.

When Should You Regrip?

Here are the signs it’s time for new grips:

• Shiny or slick spots – The texture should be consistent throughout
• Hard or crusty rubber – Old grips lose their tackiness
• Visible wear patterns – Especially in your thumb and palm areas
• Cracks or peeling – Time for new grips immediately
• You’re gripping harder – If you notice increased grip pressure, your grips are likely worn
• 40+ rounds since last regrip – Even if they look okay, performance degrades

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use lighter fluid or mineral spirits instead of grip solvent?

You can, but I don’t recommend it. These are flammable and have strong fumes. Proper grip solvent like HF-100 is non-toxic, non-flammable, and designed for the job. It’s worth the extra few dollars.

Do I need a vise to regrip clubs?

A vise makes things much easier, but you can do it without one. Have someone hold the club steady, or brace the clubhead against something solid. Just be careful not to damage the club.

How long do golf grips last?

Most grips should be replaced every 40 rounds or once a year. If you practice frequently, you may need to regrip more often. Climate matters too—grips wear faster in hot, humid conditions.

Can I reuse old grips?

Technically yes, if you remove them carefully using an air compressor to separate them from the tape (rather than cutting). But honestly, grips are inexpensive enough that I’d recommend fresh ones.

What size grips do I need?

With a standard grip, your fingers should just barely touch your palm when gripping. If they dig in, go larger. If there’s a gap, go smaller. Most golfers use standard or midsize.

Can I regrip graphite shafts the same way?

Yes! The process is identical. Just be extra careful not to over-tighten the vise and avoid pressing too hard when removing old tape.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to regrip golf clubs is one of the best investments you can make as a golfer. You’ll save $40-65 in labor costs every time you regrip, you can do it on your own schedule, and you’ll gain a better understanding of your equipment.

The first time might take you 20-30 minutes per club as you get the hang of it. By your second or third regrip session, you’ll have it down to 5 minutes per club—and you’ll wonder why you ever paid someone else to do it.

Fresh grips make a real difference in your game. Now you have no excuse not to keep yours in top condition!

Got questions about regripping? Drop a comment below and I’ll help you out!