Due to the popularity of these poles and grips, I decided to post here rather than the “Make Your Own Gear” forum. Hope it is found to be useful.
I loved these dreamy little poles…but couldn’t deal with the rattle…or the small and funky grip and tiny straps that slipped in their buckles.
Here’s how I fixed the rattle: https://backpackinglight.com/forums/topic/106326/
I got the Gossamer Gear grips from a nice member here. They’re the earlier foam versions…but I’m told they are the same otherwise. A little smallish for my tastes but I’ll fix that later.
I made the straps from a 3/4″ webbing used on an Outdoor Retailer badge holder, hence the “Crocs” advertising. I don’t know what type of webbing it is but it’s a touch thinner than standard webbing, seemingly strong, and super soft and silky smooth. I installed grommets in the ends and affixed the straps to the poles via “well nuts” (AKA rubber expansion nuts) and aluminum screws. Prior to that, I cut a hole in the top of the grips and a slot in the sides to run the straps through. To finish it, I cut foam plugs for the tops.
Total weight per pole without basket and cap is 5.53 oz…a weight gain of .24 oz over stock. (I’m guessing the GG cork grips are lighter than these older foam versions.)
Stock assembly below:
My assembly:
Ends, one grip left unplugged to show strap installation:
