The Cult x Vans grips are a fan favorite.
They combine Vans’ classic waffle pattern with ODI’s high-quality rubber compound.
Designed for BMX riders who prioritize grip, durability, and aesthetics, these grips offer a firm yet comfortable feel with a unique design inspired by Vans’ iconic shoe sole.
You can now wear Vans on your feet, Vans on your bar and Vans on your wheels (hint: Cult x Vans tires).
One thing I found especially interesting is the diameter. Most listings put these grips at around 31.5mm, but my calipers measured them at 29.5mm.
That actually lines up much better with how they feel in the hand — fairly slim, firm, and direct rather than thick and cushy.
If you like a flangeless grip with plenty of texture and a slightly firmer feel, the Cult x Vans Waffle grips are still a very strong option.
Just keep in mind that they’re noticeably firmer than S&M Hoder grips, meaning they might take a little getting used to if you prefer a softer compound.
Note: You can also get these grips in the flanged version. Same length, same everything, just with a flange.
This post covers:
- Cult X Vans Waffle BMX Grips Review
- Conclusion: Are The Cult x Vans Grips Right For You?
- FAQs About Cult x Vans Waffle Grips
Cult X Vans Waffle BMX Grips Review
1. First Impressions Of The Cult X Vans BMX Grips
Right out of the box, the Cult x Vans Grips feel grippy yet firm, offering a textured surface that locks your hands in place.
If you’re used to grips like ODI Longnecks or S&M Hoders, you might think these are too firm for a comfortable ride.
However, I like the rubber compound that Cult and ODI went with.
The waffle pattern is instantly recognizable, and it provides consistent traction even when hands get sweaty.
Still, I heard a few complaints that either they are too sticky or get too slippery when sweaty. We’re all different, so everyone experiences them differently.
The same was true of my ODI Longnecks. One pair was extremely sticky and not at all comfortable to ride, while the other was epic.
Okay, let’s go back to Cult x Vans grips.
You should know they aren’t the softest grips on the market, so if you prefer a cushier feel, you might want to look elsewhere (like S&M Hoder grips).
And because they’re slightly firmer, you might feel your landings more. But that’s something I really like.
Note: These grips also work fantastically well for bigger bikes, like DJ, MTB, DH, cruiser and wheelie bikes!
GET YOUR CULT X VANS GRIPS NOW!2. Cult X Vans Grips Features You Shouldn’t Miss
- Made by ODI: High-quality rubber compound for long-lasting durability.
- Classic Vans waffle pattern: Provides exceptional grip and control.
- Flangeless design: Keeps the setup sleek and simple. (But the flanged version is also available.)
- Multiple color options: Black, orange, white, red, blue, gum, purple, and more.
- Plastic plug-style bar ends included: Protects your bars from damage.
3. How The Cult X Vans BMX Grips Ride
The Cult x Vans grips offer reliable traction, making them a great option for riders who want a secure grip without the bulk of a flange.
Their firm feel gives excellent responsiveness, making them great for barspins, manuals, and high-impact riding.
However, if you prefer extra cushioning, you may find these grips a bit too rigid, especially on longer sessions.
Sweaty hands?
These grips perform well, but some riders find they get a bit slick after extended rides.
If you typically ride without gloves, keep this in mind.
GET YOUR CULT X VANS GRIPS NOW!4. Real Rider Feedback
- “I love mine so much I bought a set for my motorcycle too!” – Jack R.
- “They’re not too thick, which is what I like about grips because my hands aren’t the largest. Also, they last really well.” – Bryan T.
- “Not super long at 150mm, but they grip great! If you can’t find them, the Cinema Interlace has a similar feel.” – Matthew C.
- “Love mine! A little firm, but that’s exactly what I like. Plus, they’re quite sticky, which is another thing I like.” – Oli D.
- “Vans grips are the only ones I can ride without gloves.” – Luke B.
Fun fact: Out of all the grips I’ve tried – and continuously trying and testing – I keep going back to Animal Edwin grips. Still my favorite!
5. Cult X Vans Waffle Grips Specs
- Type: Flangeless or flanged version
- Diameter: 29.5mm
- Length: 150mm
- Bar ends: Plastic plug style (these hold nicely!)
- Color: Multiple options available (orange, red, white, black, pink, etc.)
- Price: $11.99
6. I Measured The Cult x Vans Grip Diameter Myself
Here’s something I found pretty interesting.
Most listings I’ve seen put the Cult x Vans Waffle grips at around 31.5mm in diameter. And that’s thick for a BMX grip.
But after buying a fresh pair and measuring them myself with calipers, I got 29.5mm. And that’s on the thinner side.
That’s not a tiny difference either.
2mm is noticeable on a BMX grip, especially if you’re comparing thinner and thicker options.
And honestly, the 29.5mm measurement matches how these grips actually feel in the hand much better.
So if you’re looking for a really thick BMX grip, I wouldn’t put the Cult x Vans in that category.
Which is a bummer because I’d really like these to work for me. But I prefer 31mm or thicker grips.
They feel more on the slimmer side, with a firm, direct connection to the bars.
Diameter: 29.5mm (personally measured)
7. Cons Of The Cult Vans Grips
- Length (too short?): I wish they were 160mm long – heck, even 165mm long!
- Can feel thin for some riders: If you like thicker grips or extra cushioning, the Vans grips may feel a bit slim. They don’t really work for me, although I wish they did because I’m a big sucker for Vans!
- Harder compound isn’t the softest: They’re grippy, but not super soft. Riders who want maximum squish and comfort might prefer a softer rubber blend. (Consider the S&M Hoder grips instead.)
- Can get slippery with very sweaty hands: When completely soaked, the waffle texture doesn’t grip too well.
- More about style than shock absorption: They look great and feel classic, but they don’t absorb vibration as well as some other grips do (like the ODI Longneck grips).
Conclusion: Are The Cult x Vans Grips Right For You?
If you want stylish, grippy, and long-lasting grips, the Cult x Vans grips are an excellent choice.
The waffle pattern provides great traction, and their firm feel ensures solid control for technical tricks and high-speed riding.
However, if you prefer a softer, more cushioned grip, these might feel too firm, especially during longer sessions.
That said, their durability, aesthetics, and trusted ODI construction make them a top-tier option for riders looking for something unique and reliable.
Highly recommended for riders who want a mix of grip, durability, and style.
Yo! 🤘
GET YOUR CULT X VANS GRIPS NOW!FAQs About Cult x Vans Waffle Grips
Are Cult x Vans grips good?
Yes. They offer plenty of grip, a firm feel, and a durable rubber compound, plus the Vans waffle pattern gives them a very distinct look.
Are Cult x Vans grips thick?
Not really. I measured my pair at 29.5mm in diameter, so they feel more slim-to-medium than thick and chunky.
What is the actual diameter of Cult x Vans grips?
My pair measured 29.5mm in diameter with calipers. That’s lower than the roughly 31.5mm figure commonly listed online.
Why do Cult x Vans grips feel thinner than expected?
Because the commonly listed diameter is overstated. At 29.5mm, they naturally feel slimmer and more direct in the hand.
How long are Cult x Vans grips?
They are 150mm long, which gives you plenty of room for different hand positions.
Are Cult x Vans grips soft?
They’re not especially soft. The rubber feels firmer and more direct than softer BMX grips, so riders who want extra cushioning may need some time to adjust.
Are Cult x Vans grips comfortable?
Yes, if you like a firmer grip. The waffle pattern gives you good texture and control, but they won’t feel as plush as softer, thicker grips.
Are Cult x Vans grips good for sweaty hands?
They can work well because the waffle pattern adds plenty of texture. But like any grip, sweat can still reduce traction, so clean grips and dry hands help a lot.
Are Cult x Vans grips flanged?
Yes, they also come as a flanged version
Are Cult x Vans grips made by ODI?
Yes. ODI makes them in the USA for Cult.
Do Cult x Vans grips come with bar ends?
Yes. They come with matching bar ends, so you have everything you need for a fresh setup.
Are Cult x Vans grips good for street BMX?
Yes. Their firm feel, strong texture, and flangeless shape work really well for street riding.
Are Cult x Vans grips good for park BMX?
Yes. They provide a direct connection to the bars and enough texture for fast, controlled park riding.
How durable are Cult x Vans grips?
They hold up well. The firmer rubber generally wears slower than very soft grips, so they’re a good choice if durability matters.
Do Cult x Vans grips get softer over time?
A little. Like most BMX grips, they tend to feel more broken-in after some riding, but they still keep a fairly firm character.
Are Cult x Vans grips worth it?
Yes, especially if you like the Vans look and prefer a slimmer, firmer BMX grip.
Further reading:
- What Size Are BMX Grips?
- Flanged VS Flangeless Grips (Which Is Better?)
- How To Install BMX Bike Grips
