In 2025, skateboarding enthusiasts like you are always on the lookout for ways to elevate their ride. Imagine gripping your board with clear grip tapes that not only provide exceptional traction but also let your deck's graphics shine through. From Mr. Pen's waterproof option to the ever-reliable Jessup Grip, each tape offers a unique blend of performance and aesthetics. Curious to find out which one might be your perfect match?
key Takeaways
- Mr. Pen Waterproof Grip Tape offers a translucent, non-slip surface with perforations to prevent bubbles during installation.
- Mob Clear Griptape features a frosted glass appearance with ultra-sticky adhesive and small air holes for easy application.
- Black Diamond Clear Grip Tape provides industrial-grade glue and 80 grit texture, ensuring durability and weather resistance.
- TURBO Clear Grip Tape is an affordable option with pre-cut designs but may have adhesion issues in extreme conditions.
- Jessup Grip Tape is known for its strong adhesive quality and silicon carbide formula, trusted by professionals for decades.
Mr. Pen Waterproof Non-Slip Scooter and Skateboard Grip Tape
If you're seeking a grip tape that offers both functionality and aesthetics, Mr. Pen Waterproof Non-Slip Scooter and Skateboard Grip Tape is a top choice. With dimensions of 39.4 x 10.6 inches, it's crafted from exclusive emery and high-density sand grains, ensuring a non-slip, wear-resistant surface. Installation is straightforward: peel, align, stick, and trim. The perforation technique prevents bubbles, and its translucent quality lets designs shine through. While mostly praised for quality and grip, a few users noted adhesion issues. You'll appreciate the fun sticker and excellent customer support, making it a reliable option for enhancing your ride.
Best For: Skateboarders and scooter enthusiasts looking for durable, non-slip grip tape that enhances both performance and aesthetics.
Pros:
- Made from exclusive emery and high-density sand grains for a strong grip.
- Easy to customize and apply with a bubble-free perforation technique.
- Translucent quality allows underlying designs to be visible.
Cons:
- Some users reported issues with adhesion and surface imperfections.
- Heavy grit texture might not match other grip tapes.
- Requires careful trimming with a sharp knife for clean edges.
Mob Clear Griptape 10 x 33
Skateboarders who value both aesthetics and performance will find the Mob Clear Griptape 10 x 33 an ideal choice. This clear grip tape lets your board's graphics shine through with its optically transparent design, resembling frosted glass. It's not just about looks; the fine-grit texture and ultra-sticky adhesive guarantee excellent grip. The unique waterproof backing allows for clean trimming, while small air holes prevent bubbling during installation. Trusted by pros since 2000, it delivers a consistent grip, even in changing temperatures. Though some users mention durability concerns over time, its quality-price ratio makes it a popular choice among skaters.
Best For: Skateboarders who prioritize both the aesthetic appeal of their board's graphics and high-performance grip.
Pros:
- Optically transparent design allows visibility of board graphics.
- Ultra-sticky adhesive with fine-grit texture for excellent grip.
- Easy installation with bubble-proof application and clean trimming.
Cons:
- Some users report durability issues after extended use.
- Transparency may accumulate dirt, requiring occasional cleaning.
- Slightly higher price compared to some competitors, though justified by quality.
Black Diamond Sheet of Skateboard Grip Tape 9 x 33 (Clear)
For those who value both style and functionality in their skateboard setup, the Black Diamond Sheet of Skateboard Grip Tape 9 x 33 (Clear) stands out with its easy peel and stick application. You can customize it by cutting to fit your board perfectly. The 80 grit silicon carbide surface guarantees excellent traction, making it easy to stay firm on your board. Its thick tape and industrial-grade glue resist peeling, even in harsh conditions. Waterproof and weatherproof, it's also great for tools or trailer steps. Users love its clear view of deck graphics and praise its durability and fair pricing.
Best For: Skateboarders seeking durable grip tape with excellent traction and the ability to showcase their board's graphics.
Pros:
- Easy peel and stick application for quick installation.
- High-quality 80 grit silicon carbide surface provides excellent traction.
- Waterproof and weatherproof, suitable for various conditions and applications.
Cons:
- Clear tape may appear cloudy, slightly obscuring graphics.
- Some users may need to sand for a smoother grip after installation.
- May require cutting to fit non-standard board sizes.
TURBO 9 x 33 Inch Clear Skateboard Grip Tape Clear
The TURBO 9 x 33 Inch Clear Skateboard Grip Tape Clear stands out for its versatility, making it an excellent choice for skateboarders, cruisers, and scooter enthusiasts alike. With a standard 80 grit, it guarantees a solid grip. You're going to love how easy it is to apply, thanks to its pre-cut design, and don't worry about the weather; it stays sticky in both cold and hot conditions. Although some users mention adhesion and material quality issues, most find it affordable and effective. Plus, the fun colors and designs let you personalize your ride while keeping it secure.
Best For: Skateboarders, cruisers, and scooter enthusiasts looking for an affordable and versatile grip tape option.
Pros:
- Easy to apply with pre-cut design
- Reliable grip with industry-standard 80 grit
- Adhesively sticky in both cold and hot weather
Cons:
- Some users report adhesion issues
- Potential for cracking
- Concerns about material quality
Jessup Grip 11 x 44 Longboard Self-Adheisive Grip Tape Sheet
Jessup Grip 11 x 44 Longboard Self-Adhesive Grip Tape Sheet stands out with its pioneering silicon carbide formula, making it the ideal choice for those seeking durability and reliability in their skateboard grip tape. You'll appreciate its rock-solid bonding and the ease with which it conforms to your deck's concaves. Trimming is a breeze, and unlike other tapes, it won't tear. With Jessup's "SUPERTOUGH" silicon carbide grit, your grip remains effective over time, ensuring longevity. Customers love its adhesive quality, though shipping flat is essential to maintain integrity. Join the pros who've trusted Jessup for decades—you won't be disappointed!
Best For: Those seeking durable and reliable skateboard grip tape that offers easy installation and superior longevity.
Pros:
- Rock-solid bonding that ensures a stable platform.
- Easy to trim without tearing, providing great conformability to deck concaves.
- Long-lasting silicon carbide grit that maintains grip effectiveness over time.
Cons:
- Shipping must be flat to prevent damage, which can affect product integrity.
- Some customers have reported occasional issues with adhesion.
- Ranked #134 in its category, indicating there may be more popular alternatives.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Clear Grip Tape for Skateboards
When picking the right clear grip tape for your skateboard, you need to keep several factors in mind. Consider the adhesion and durability, grit texture quality, and how well the tape maintains its transparency and aesthetics. Don't forget to check for weather resistance features and how easy it is to install.
Adhesion and Durability
While choosing clear grip tape for your skateboard, it is vital to focus on adhesion and durability to guarantee peak performance. Strong adhesion guarantees that the tape stays put during intense sessions. Look for options with ultra-sticky adhesives and industrial-grade glues. Durability is equally important; opt for tapes with waterproof and weatherproof features to handle various conditions without peeling. Installation ease also affects adhesion—select tapes with bubble-proof technology and small air holes to prevent air pockets. This helps achieve a smooth application, enhancing sticking power. Don't overlook customer feedback, as it often highlights real-world adhesion issues. Reviewing user experiences can give you valuable insights into a product's long-term reliability under different skating conditions.
Grit Texture Quality
As you select clear grip tape for your skateboard, pay close attention to the grit texture quality, as it greatly impacts your ride's safety and control. An 80 grit texture is ideal, offering excellent traction, though it might feel slightly rough. This high grit level guarantees you stay firmly planted on your board, especially during tricks and turns. The durability of the grit texture is vital; a well-bound grit means your grip tape will last longer, maintaining its performance even with frequent use. Look for grip tapes that use exclusive binding processes to prevent the grit from wearing off quickly. Also, verify the texture performs consistently in both hot and cold conditions, so you're prepared for any weather.
Transparency and Aesthetics
Choosing clear grip tape for your skateboard isn't just about function—it's also an aesthetic decision that can transform your board's look. Opt for transparency to showcase the graphic design beneath, enhancing visual appeal without sacrificing performance. Clear grip tape often resembles frosted glass, offering a unique appearance while keeping your board's artwork visible.
However, it tends to accumulate dirt over time. Thankfully, you can easily clean it to maintain its clarity. For custom projects where presentation is key, preserving the design's aesthetic is essential. Many skaters prefer grip tape that complements rather than detracts from their skateboard's overall look. So, when selecting clear grip tape, consider how it aligns with your style and the importance of showcasing your skateboard's art.
Weather Resistance Features
Beyond the aesthetics of clear grip tapes, their performance in various weather conditions plays a significant role in your skateboarding experience. You need a grip tape that remains reliable, whether it's pouring rain or blazing hot. High-quality options offer waterproof and weatherproof features, guaranteeing they maintain traction even when wet. Choose tapes with industrial-grade adhesives to prevent peeling, a common issue in adverse weather. These adhesives keep your board looking and performing its best, regardless of the climate.
Additionally, consider grip tapes with grit binding processes that withstand temperature fluctuations, assuring consistent performance. For outdoor use, seek tapes that resist UV exposure, preventing deterioration over time. This resistance not only enhances durability but also guarantees your ride remains smooth and enjoyable.
Installation Ease
When you're picking clear grip tape for your skateboard, consider how easy it is to install. You'll want a tape that allows you to peel off the backing smoothly, align it with the skateboard edge, and trim any excess for a custom fit. Look for options with perforation techniques or small air holes to prevent bubbling, ensuring a smooth finish. A sharp blade or razor is essential for making clean cuts that match your deck's shape. Some tapes even feature waterproof backing, simplifying the trimming process. If you've applied grip tape before, your familiarity will enhance the ease of installation. Choose a grip tape that suits your skill level, making the process straightforward and hassle-free.
Cost-Effectiveness
Although cost-effectiveness is essential when selecting clear grip tape for your skateboard, it doesn't mean you should compromise on quality. First, evaluate the price per square inch; many options fall between $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot. Look for tapes with strong adhesive properties and durability, as they'll save you money by reducing reapplication needs. Higher-quality tapes might cost more upfront but often last longer, minimizing replacements. Consider the versatility of the tape—some work on both skateboards and scooters, enhancing their value. Finally, review customer feedback and ratings. Products with high ratings generally offer better performance, making them a wise investment despite a higher initial price. Balancing these factors will guarantee you get the best value for your money.
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!