ABOUT THE SQLAB 7OX PRO 2.0 GRIPS
German company SQlab designed their 7OX Pro 2.0 grips to offer the ultimate comfort and control for enduro and downhill mountain bikes. The ergonomic shape was developed following extensive lab testing, using pressure mapping to identify the key areas for comfort and support. With rider hand sizes varying considerably, SQlab offers three sizes – small to large – to give every rider a customized fit. They have a fit system to help every rider identify the best grip size for their hands.
By utilizing an ergonomic shape – opposed to the round shape typically found in mountain bike grips – the hand has support in key areas, with more even pressure distribution and therefore less pressure on the ulnar nerve. SQlab adds damping to the areas that receive the most force, on the outside of the hand. Under the fingertips there’s a lip to offer purchase to input control to the bars with a looser grip required.
The compound of the 7OX Pro 2.0 grips was developed using a high damping TPE to provide increased vibration absorption. The soft compound offers excellent grip whether wet or dry, helping to further reduce the grip strength required and minimize arm pump.
SQlab’s 7OX Pro 2.0 grips retail for a competitive $39.99 / £29.99 / €34.99, and can be purchased from their web store or a worldwide network of dealers.
THE DIRT
Although my hands are large – in glove sizing at least – they’re also very chunky. As such, when I grip onto a bar, the natural diameter of my hands isn’t particularly large. SQlab’s fit system recommended the medium size 7OX Pro 2.0 grips for my hands, but I requested the small size in addition to satisfy my curiosity. I often favor grips on the thinner end of the spectrum to maximize control and feel, but lose out on damping as a result. Finding the balance between comfort and control is an everlasting pursuit, but the SQlab 7OX Pro 2.0 grips – in both small and medium sizes – found themselves at the very top of the list.
Due to their shape, both the Small and Medium 7OX Pro 2.0 grips were comfortable under my palms. It was only the wrapping around of my fingers that differed notably, with the medium arguably offering a better fit from a conventional perspective, but the small feeling more dainty and precise. If I was hammering downhill laps, the increased relaxation of my grip strength made possible by the medium would be my preference. For shorter, hotter laps where maximum precision was desired, I’d opt for the small size.
Both still feature the same pronounced ridge under the fingertips that provided the ability to easily input rotational forces into the front end. Under the outside of the palm, the thicker padding and flat shape helped to take a lot of the sting off the trail below. Due to the ergonomic shape, it was essential to get the angle of the grips set up to a natural and comfortable spot, otherwise the benefits were quickly removed. This didn’t prove to be difficult, often happening on the first or second try after swapping the grips to a new bike.
Having previously tested the standard 7OX 2.0, the upgrade in grip and comfort provided by the Pro version was notable and appreciated. As for wear life? The ergonomic shape helped to reduce the amount of rotational translation of the hand on the bar, greatly reducing the effective wear. This not only reduced the degradation of the grips, but also reduced the toll of long days on the bike to my palms. The Pro version lasted very well for a soft compound grip.
I believe that the majority of riders who try SQlab’s 7OX Pro 2.0 grips would quickly become comfortable and familiar. And there are genuine benefits to be had in reducing arm pump and hand fatigue. With SQlab’s 30 day trial period letting riders see if the grips work for them without risk, it’s hard not to recommend these as a stellar mountain bike grip offering for just about any mountain bike. And you don’t even pay above the odds for the privilege.
The Wolf’s Last Word
Comfortable size-specific ergonomics, great traction and ultimately reduced hand fatigue, the SQlab 7OX Pro 2.0 grips are an excellent offering for any mountain biker. 
Price: $39.99 / £29.99 / €34.99
Website: sq-lab.com
SHARE THIS REVIEW
ABOUT THE WOLF
Robert’s habitat is the Tweed Valley, Scotland, which is renowned for its root-littered enduro mountain bike trails. Robert has been developing his bike handling skills for the last 16 years. Since he was a pup, he’s been riding everything from BMX through to enduro and downhill bikes. Combining a playful style with occasional speed-focused aggression, he favors supportive bikes, and does his best to push them hard.
Rank: European Tech Editor
Size: 6’2” / 189cm | 220lbs / 100kg
Social: @robert_johnston
SUPPORT AND JOIN THE LOAM WOLF PACK
Did you find this review helpful? Would you like the chance to review (and keep) products? Are you interested in saving big bucks by getting exclusive Members Only discounts from industry brands all while helping support a small, rider-owned media crew? We have big plans for our members beyond big discounts and product giveaways! To learn more and help support small, independent media, visit our Member’s Page.