You’re set up for a personal best, the weight is loaded, your mind is locked in, and then suddenly... your grip starts to slip. It’s frustrating because you know you can lift heavier, but your fingers just can’t keep hold of the bar.
Sometimes it’s sweat that makes things worse, or maybe it’s just fatigue kicking in. Either way, losing your grip can be the difference between a successful lift and a failed attempt.
This is why liquid chalk has become a gym essential and is used across all kinds of training disciplines. CrossFitters use it for high-rep pull-ups and Olympic lifts, and powerlifters and bodybuilders apply it before heavy deadlifts or rows. Then there are rock climbers who use it to keep hold of surfaces, pole fitness athletes who rely on it to maintain their grip mid-routine, and gymnasts who swear by it too.
Liquid chalk vs traditional chalk
Traditional lifting chalk is usually made of magnesium carbonate and comes in either a block or a loose powder. It’s effective at absorbing moisture and improving grip, but it’s messy. Chalk dust gets on everything; your clothes, the gym floor, and sometimes even in the air. Some gyms have banned it for this reason, which has led many athletes to switch to liquid chalk.
Liquid chalk is a magnesium carbonate solution mixed with alcohol. When applied, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind a thin layer of chalk on your hands. Unlike powdered chalk, it doesn’t create dust clouds, and it tends to last longer before needing a reapplication. The alcohol content also helps to kill bacteria, which is useful in public gym environments.
What to consider when choosing liquid chalk
Not all liquid chalks are the same, and picking the right one depends on your training style and personal preference. Some formulas dry almost instantly, while others take a few extra seconds to set. The texture can also vary; some feel smooth and even, while others leave a slightly tacky or gritty layer on the hands.
If you’re doing high-rep workouts or training for long periods, you’ll want a formula that lasts. Some cheaper versions wear off too quickly, forcing you to reapply mid-session. If your skin is sensitive, look at the ingredient list. High alcohol content can be harsh, so some brands add moisturisers like aloe vera to prevent excessive drying.
Another thing to consider is the scent. Some liquid chalks have a strong alcohol smell, which isn’t a problem for most people but can be off-putting if you’re sensitive to it. Unscented options are available, though they tend to be less common.
Ultimately, the best liquid chalk is the one that fits your needs. If your gym doesn’t allow powdered chalk or you just want something less messy, it’s worth making the switch. With the right product, you can focus on lifting heavier, climbing higher, or perfecting your technique; without worrying about your grip letting you down.
How we tested
While weightlifting straps are useful for heavy lifts, they can sometimes feel restrictive. So for exercises where full control of the barbell is needed, liquid chalk provides a simpler alternative.
To see how different formulas performed, the ES Best Shopping team tested them during weightlifting sessions, where grip fatigue can make all the difference. For a change of scene, I also tried a pole fitness class at Gymbox, where grip security is essential for an aerial-meets-gymnastics workout. The following week, I took the different products rock climbing with friends to see how well they held up on a surface angled at a drop.
Beyond performance, I factored in practical considerations. Some formulas were quite runny, making them messy to apply, while others dried too thickly, leaving a chalky residue. The scent was another point of comparison, as some had a strong alcohol smell that lingered. Finally, I considered how drying each one was; some left my hands feeling stripped after multiple uses, while others had a smoother, less harsh finish.
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Bear Grip Liquid Chalk
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After one application, this liquid chalk was quick-drying yet long-lasting, without needing constant top-ups. Other liquid chalks feel claggy or overly drying, but this one strikes the perfect balance with no residue and no slipping - it’s just a strong hold. I also love that Bear Grip comes in different sizes, making it easy to stash in my bag.
Buy now £7.99, Amazon
Mana Ultimate Gym Liquid Chalk
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The Mana Ultimate Gym Liquid Chalk might have split opinions due to its bold, bright pink colour. But I think it is a bit more fun, and way better than the usual dull white. That is if your gym allows it. But beyond aesthetics, it works. Plus, the antibacterial formula keeps my hands fresh, even when I’m using shared equipment.
Buy now £12.99, Amazon
Total Grip Liquid Chalk
Unlike regular chalk that leaves white stains everywhere, this one goes on clear, so that there’s no mess or chalky palms. This is down to a silicone-based formula that feels invisible but works like magic. It lasts through sweat and stays put even in humid conditions. Plus, the slim bottle is perfect for throwing in my gym bag or slipping into a pocket.
Buy now £9.99, Amazon
Per4m Liquid Chalk
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This Per4m chalk dries fast which is good when I just want to get straight into a set and I’m not wasting time waiting. I like how clean it feels with no claggy buildup or residue left behind. And the 250ml bottle lasts ages, making it an easy, no-fuss addition to my gym bag.
Buy now £10.99, Amazon
Myprotein Liquid Chalk
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This quick-drying formula locks in my grip without the dust, making it perfect for all types of exercises. From deadlifts to pull-ups, kettlebells to bouldering, it helps with my control and reduces slippage. The sweat-resistant formula keeps hands dry even during intense sessions, while the compact bottle is easy to throw into my gym bag.
Buy now £14.08, Amazon
Friction Labs Quick Grip Secret Stuff Liquid Chalk
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Designed for all skin types and training environments, Secret Stuff comes in three variations: Original for humid conditions, Alcohol-Free for sensitive skin and indoor gyms, and Hygienic for added grip with germ-killing benefits.
Trusted by elite athletes across climbing, powerlifting and tennis, Friction Labs’ premium magnesium carbonate formula is built for serious grip. Use it as a base layer or pair it with loose chalk for extra-strength hold.
Buy now £18.00, Amazon
Mobu Liquid Chalk
This alcohol-based solution dries quickly, creating a reliable, long-lasting grip. Just apply, let it evaporate in seconds, and you’re ready to go. A little goes a long way, making it a cost-effective choice that lasts longer while requiring less product per use.
Buy now £7.99, Amazon
