grip
grip
/ɡrɪp/
The traction or friction between a rider's feet and the surface of the board; to hold onto a surface securely.
In skateboarding, grip is provided by rough, sandpaper-like 'grip tape'. In surfing, it is achieved through sticky surf wax or traction pads.
The story behind the word. Tracing back to the Proto-Germanic 'gripan', meaning to seize or grasp, the word has always been about holding on tight. In board sports, it shifted from a hand action to a foot action, describing how well a rider's feet cling to the deck.
Word relationships
- traction: Traction is the physical friction between two surfaces, while grip can refer to both the friction and the actual act of holding on.
- friction: Friction is the scientific term for resistance to sliding, whereas grip is the practical application of that resistance.
- slippage: Slippage is the failure of traction, causing a surface to slide out of control.
- slickness: Slickness is a smooth, low-friction state that prevents secure footing.
Commonly confused with
- binding: Bindings physically strap the feet to the board (as in snowboarding), whereas grip relies purely on friction between the shoe/foot and the board surface.
Word family
- grippy (adjective): Providing high friction or traction; not slippery.
- gripper (noun): A device or surface designed to hold something tightly.
Collocations
- grip tape
- lose grip
- maximum grip
- grip the surface
Idioms & expressions
- get a grip
- lose one's grip
Example sentences
- "The old grip tape had worn smooth, making it difficult to maintain a solid grip during high-speed slides." A skateboarder explaining why they need to replace their board's surface.
- "Apply a fresh layer of wax to the deck of your surfboard to ensure your feet don't lose grip when you stand up." A surf guide advising a beginner on board preparation.
Memory hook
Think of your shoes having tiny invisible hands that 'grip' the rough surface of the board. Grip tape keeps you from slipping.
When not to use
Do not confuse 'grip' with mechanical bindings, like those on snowboards, which physically lock the feet to the board rather than relying on friction.
Fun facts
- Skateboard grip tape is coated with silicon carbide, a mineral almost as hard as diamond, which is why it easily scrapes skin and ruins shoes.
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