On about half the rods I've built to date, I've used EVA grips. I just like the feel of EVA on some of the bigger rods I use for trolling and casting to schools of fish on top.

Does anyone have firsthand knowledge of how long EVA grips last? Do they eventually lose the slightly cushioned feel?

Thanks.

Pete Kornegay

I have some going on 10 years that a still in reat shape.My Dad has rods that need the grips replaced about every 3 years because he dont clean them after use.He sometimes has trouble using a rag after dehooking a fish and putting it in the cooler and the fish slime is deposited onto the grips and them allowed to bake in the sun and then in the car trunk until the next time.Last rod redid my wife made me strip the grips before it was brought into the basement and to tell the truth I dont blame her.As with anything proper care will increase the longevity .

Freddwhy (Rapt-Ryte)

I haven't been paying attention for too long, but from what I see on boats, Fraddy's righ ton target. Take care of your gear, it will last forever, neglect it, and it will get beat to death.

A friend of mine owns a party boat, all his rods have Hypalon on them - tehy are fished 300+ days per year, and cleaned maybe 2-3 times a month. I couldn't figure out what new material he had on his rod, as there was a "plastic skin" on the HYpalon. He gave me the rods, I sanded teh skin off - teh grips were back to normal once again.

My son's ultralight trout rod has EVA grips, 22 years and counting. It's still pliable, but I keep rods clean and out of the sun if possible.

Thanks for the input, guys.

Pete K.