The Best Pool Cue Wraps for 2024
A pool cue wrap is one of the first things many pool players will buy to enhance the performance of their cue. The wrap slips around the cue butt and is meant to improve cue grip and control.
Cue wraps will help with slipping, especially for players that tend to get sweaty hands. Cue wraps can absorb moisture and provide a non-slip grip to ensure better control and increased accuracy. For some players, cue wraps are simply more comfortable and create more confidence over shots.
There are several good wrap/grip options available for your pool cue, but some are harder to get and are more expensive than others.
We’ll look at the characteristics, pros and cons of different types of pool cue wraps. We’ll also provide a few wrap recommendations if you are looking for more cue control.
Types of Cue Wraps
Pool cue wraps are made from various material types like leather or linen.
The choice of cue wrap material largely depends on the kind of player you are and the kind of feel you prefer or find most comfortable. Many players even opt for having no cue wrap at all.
Here is an overview of the 4 main pool cue wrap materials:
1. Irish Linen
Irish linen closely resembles silk and has a luxurious feel and look. It is one of the most common cue wrap materials and the least grippy. The material often has a wax coating that can make it slick. The slickness allows the cue to slide through the hand easily – this is great for finesse players.
Pros
- Luxurious feel and look
- Variety of color and design options
- A classic and more traditional option
Cons
- Gets dirty fast and is harder to clean
- Frays over time
2. Leather
Leather wraps are popular for both pro and amateur players. Their texture makes them grippier than Irish linen wraps, but leather is still not as grippy as stacked leather or rubber. Leather wraps provide a more high-end look without sacrificing grip.
Pros
- Gives cues an elegant and high-end look
- Absorbs moisture to prevent slippage
Cons
- Higher cost
3. Stacked Leather
Stacked leather wraps are made by layering strips of leather the same way you install Irish linen wraps. The wrap is also textured and patterned to provide an excellent grip. When installed correctly, the wraps will feel like solid leather and provide a better grip than standard leather wraps.
Pros
- Absorbs moisture for less slippage
- Cheaper than standard leather
- Customizable pattern, texture and color
Cons
- Requires more maintenance – regular cleaning and conditioning are vital
- Heavier than most other wrap materials
4. Rubber
Rubber pool cue wraps are the grippiest. They are perfect for players with sweaty and oily hands as they offer the most grip. These wraps also offer a more cushioned grip and are more resilient to spills and dirt.
Rubber grips can easily slide on and off the cue. You do not need any special tools or expertise to install a rubber wrap, and it won’t damage your cue. This simple design, ease of use and lower price tag make them the most readily available wraps.
Pros
- Offers a firm grip and plenty of control
- Long service life
- More cushioned feel
- Super easy installation
Cons
- Develops a tacky feel over time
- Not as visually appealing as other wrap types
Installing other types of cue wraps can easily damage your cue if you aren’t familiar with the process. Most of these wraps require you to cut wrap channels on the cue. Installing them will also involve some machining, and you often have to apply lateral pressure. All this puts your cue at greater risk of permanent damage.
The effort, time and expertise it takes to install premium cue wraps explain why most are installed by cue makers in the workshop when the cue is being built.
3 Best Pool Cue Wraps You Can Buy In 2023
1. Tiger Silicone Rubber Pool Cue Wrap
Price – $16.99
Color options – Black, white, red, orange and clear
Key Features
- Silicone rubber material
- Measures 11¾-inch long and with a 0.7mm thickness
- Weighs 19 grams
- Easy to install with simple instructions
2. Seybert’s Embossed Leather Wraps
Price – $30
Color options – Black, brown, blue and gray
Key Features
- Embossed leather material (different animal leather material options available)
- 13.5-inch long
- Medium/softer feel
- Semi-gloss look
- Can be cut down to fit any cue
Price – $11.25
Color options – Black, red, green and purple
Key Features
- Pure silicone rubber material
- Textured surface for a firmer grip
- Measures 13 ⅞-inch long and is 0.5mm thick
- Weighs just 11 grams
- Designed to slide over the cue with just a few glass detergent sprays
Wrap Up
A good pool cue wrap can give you better cue control and make the cue more comfortable, especially when playing for extended periods.
The right cue wrap for you largely depends on the kind of player you are. If you hit hard shots, you need something more grippy to allow for maximum power transfer. A wrapless cue, or Irish linen wrap may work better for a finesse player looking for less power and more accuracy.
The good news is that there are several cue wrap options. We recommend trying out a cue with your preferred wrap to make sure you like the feel and performance, before applying to your regular cue.
As always, Happy Shooting!
