Traditional sports grips—used on cricket bats, tennis racquets, hockey sticks, and more—are hard to fit properly. They often require awkward tools or wrapping techniques that result in uneven or loose grips. Additionally, most grips come in plain colors with no room for personalisation, which many athletes find limiting.
The Solution
This invention introduces a new type of sports grip made from heat-shrink material. It’s a sleeve that slides over the handle of the sports gear and shrinks tightly around it when heated (using a heat gun or hot water). Even better, the outside can be fully customised with printed patterns, colors, or even hand placement guides to show players exactly how to hold the equipment.
What’s Innovative
Unlike past solutions that used decals and protective covers (which often slipped), this grip is a single piece made from a special heat-shrinkable polymer that shrinks only around the handle—not lengthwise—ensuring a perfect, snug fit every time. A unique printing process stretches the material before printing, so the design looks correct after shrinking.
Tangible Benefits
- Easy to fit—no tools, no mess, no slipping
- Durable and weather-resistant—outlasts rubber grips
- Customizable—print your team colors, name, or hand placement
- Comfortable—the material is soft, flexible, and grip-friendly
Broader Impact
This grip could improve player performance by encouraging correct technique. It’s also an appealing option for sports teams, clubs, and individual players who want to personalise their gear affordably. Its use could extend beyond sports, benefiting bikes, scooters, or any tool with a handle—offering a simple, customizable solution worldwide.