Peaty’s Monarch grips review: Fantastic control and comfort

Peaty’s Monarch grips have been highly praised for their exceptional control and comfort, available in two distinct designs and sizes to suit different rider preferences. Developed by downhill legend Steve Peat’s brand, these grips offer either a knurled pattern for enhanced grip or a mushroom ribbed texture for greater cushioning. Both designs feature a thoughtfully tapered, offset moulding that promotes a natural wrist position and precise hand placement, with additional details like chevron thumb pads and finger grip bars to improve handling and feedback. Constructed around an 80 percent recycled ocean plastic core, the Monarch grips are secured with stainless steel lock rings available in a variety of anodised colours, allowing riders to personalise their setup. The grips come in ‘Thin’ (30-32mm) and ‘Thick’ (32-34mm) sizes and are finished in multiple colour options including black, red, mango, turquoise, and slate grey. Peaty’s commitment to sustainability extends to their packaging, which uses recycled and recyclable materials, replacing typical plastic components with eco-friendly alternatives. Performance testing involved feedback from over a thousand riders, leading to a design that combines the best features from popular grips on the market. Reviewers noted the Monarchs’ firm yet comfortable feel, with the knurled version providing excellent grip in wet conditions and the mushroom style offering reduced hand fatigue on long or rough rides. Durability has also been impressive, with no signs of wear or damage after extensive use, and the thicker ends provide extra protection for carbon bar tips. Overall, the Monarch grips stand out for their balanced approach to grip and comfort, supported by detailed design elements that enhance rider confidence and control. While there are cheaper options available, Peaty’s grips justify their price with superior materials, thoughtful engineering, and an environmentally conscious ethos. This combination makes them a compelling choice for mountain bikers seeking reliable, high-performance grips that do not compromise on sustainability.