Grip Build-Up Tape Chart: Wraps per Size and Core Sizes

The makers do not agree on one number. Golf Pride's FAQ says one wrap adds 1/64 inch. Srixon's fitting guide says each layer is a quarter of a grip size. Hireko's clubmaker chart lists 9 layers for +1/16 inch on a .600 core over a .600 butt. They count tape differently, so count your layers the same way each time and measure the result.

The ChartLayers of build-up tape, by grip core and shaft butt

Find your grip core in the first column and your shaft butt in the second, then read across to the size you want. The numbers are layers of build-up tape.

Hireko's chart assumes one layer of two-way grip tape and masking tape .0035 inch thick. A * means the grip has to be stretched about 3/4 inch longer to get that size, and ** means about 3/8 inch. n/p means that size is not possible with that core and butt. The chart also has rows for L56, L58 and L60 grips, not shown here.

MakersWhat each maker says about tape

Golf Pride's and Srixon's wrap rules do not state a tape thickness. Hireko's chart does, so the three do not line up directly.

Core sizesGrip core sizes as the makers list them

The core is the inside of the grip, the hole that slides over the shaft butt. It is not the size you feel in your hands. Golf Pride's Tour Velvet standard is listed on a .580 core and its midsize on a .600 core, so the outside size comes from the grip itself as well as the core.

Most of these grips are listed on a .600 core. Lamkin's CrossLine is listed on a .580 core in both standard and midsize.

Smaller coreHow a smaller core makes a grip bigger

On the same shaft, a grip with a smaller core ends up bigger. Read down the .600 column below: a 56 core is +1/32, a 58 core is +1/64, a 60 core is standard and a 62 core is -1/64.

Hireko's chart shows the same thing in layers. An M58 core over a .600 butt reaches +1/64" with 0 layers, and an M60 core over a .580 butt needs 3 layers to reach standard.

How big each size is

Using itHow to use this chart

Know your butt and your core. The core is listed in the grip's specs. The butt is the end of the shaft the grip sits on. Grips4Less suggests starting with .600 if you do not know your butt size. Use the first chart to see how many layers your pair needs for the size you want.

Start with one or two extra wraps. Golf Pride's blog suggests this, and says to put the second piece of tape on rotated so its seam does not line up with the first, because aligned seams could cause a raised area.

Choose where the tape goes. Tape can go under the whole grip, or only under the bottom half for a more even, non-tapered shape. Srixon's order sheet lists "extra wraps" and "extra lower wraps" as separate options.

Build up one club first. GOLF.com's equipment editor says there is no cut and dry rule for more tape over a bigger grip. It depends on the club's weighting and how you want it to feel, and a certified club builder can help.

For the tape, solvent and vise steps, see how to regrip golf clubs at home. For the right starting size, see the golf grip size chart.

Watch forCommon mistakes

Counting layers differently. Hireko's chart counts from one layer of two-way grip tape under the grip. Pick one way to count and stick with it.

Treating the core number as the finished size. A .580 core is the inside of the grip. Golf Pride's Tour Velvet standard sits on a .580 core and its midsize on a .600.

Building up the wrong grip. Winn says its AVS grips allow up to four wraps and does not recommend building up its spiral wrap style grips.

Forgetting the feel. GOLF.com's Jonathan Wall says extra tape stretches the rubber walls and gives a firmer feel, and that stretched rubber may wear out sooner. Extra tape also adds weight to the handle, which changes swing weight. The golf grip weight chart lists grip weights.

FAQQuick answers