Race Face Chester grips review

Race Face's Chester grips give good traction even in the wettest conditions, while providing plenty of feedback from the trail below.

With a soft compound and tapered mushroom texture, the Chester grips remain comfortable for long periods in the saddle and make for a good contact point on the bar.

They feature a perforated mushroom grip pattern that's said to wick water away for better grip when riding in the wet.

Race Face Chester grips spec details

The grip is available in two diameters, 31mm and 34mm, both of which feature a soft 20A durometer rubber compound.

I tested the smaller-diameter grip, which features a double-tapered design, with the inside and outside of the grip wider than 31mm.

This tapered diameter is said to support natural hand placement, with the inside taper section being made of more pliable ribbing than the rest of the grip, while the outer third features shallower, firmer ribbing.

A single inside clamp is used to mount the grips, and is available in nine different colours.

The Race Face Chester grips measure 136mm in length and weighed in at 111g on our scales, with a claimed weight of 112g.

Race Face Chester grips performance

Fitting the Race Face Chester grips posed no problems, with the grips sliding on easily and the single inside clamp locking them to the bar quickly.

A 3mm Allen key is used to adjust the clamp, with the bolt positioned at the rear of the grip so there is no interference with the gears or brake levers when tightening the clamp.

The clamp secures the grips securely to the bar and provides plenty of confidence, with the grips remaining in position even after some serious arm wrenching.

The flanged mushroom texture next to the clamp helps keep you in contact with the bar when removing a digit for shifting or braking, and it gives extra cushioning between the thumb and forefinger.

I prefer mountain bike grips with this design. Once your thumb or forefinger is removed, the remaining digit can feel quite isolated on the grip, struggling for traction, especially after a long day.

There is extra cushioning on the top of the grip to isolate your palm from trail buzz, while the angled ribbing helps keep your hands from slipping sideways.

I like the proportions of the underside pattern, which is designed for you to dig your fingers into to counter backwards hand rotation.

The tapered end of the grip wasn’t too intrusive, with my hand still able to rest over the end while keeping my fingers securely in position.

Throughout testing, the Chester grips have suffered little wear, with the rubber remaining as grippy as on the first ride.

Race Face Chester grips bottom line

Overall, the Race Face Chester grips have a premium feel that provides high levels of grip in all conditions.

There's plenty of cushioning, without sacrificing feedback from the handlebar, making them a top choice.