Does Academy Sports Sell Golf Grips in Stores

Academy Sports does sell golf grips in select store locations and online, offering a range of options from top brands like Golf Pride, Winn, and Lamkin. While inventory varies by store, you can check availability online or call ahead to confirm. Whether you’re replacing worn grips or customizing your clubs, Academy provides affordable choices for golfers of all levels.

If you’re a golfer, you know how important it is to have the right gear—especially when it comes to something as personal as your grip. A worn-out or ill-fitting grip can throw off your swing, reduce control, and even cause discomfort during long rounds. That’s why replacing your golf grips regularly is a smart move. But where do you go to buy new ones? If you’re already shopping at Academy Sports for athletic gear, you might be wondering: Does Academy Sports sell golf grips in stores?

The short answer is yes—Academy Sports does sell golf grips, both in select physical locations and through their online store. However, the availability can vary depending on your local store’s inventory and size. While you won’t always find a full wall of grips like at a dedicated golf pro shop, Academy offers a solid selection of popular brands and styles that cater to everyday golfers. Whether you’re looking for a soft, tacky grip for better feel or a durable, all-weather option for rainy rounds, there’s a good chance you’ll find what you need.

What makes Academy a convenient choice is their blend of affordability, accessibility, and customer service. With over 280 stores across the southern and midwestern United States, many golfers already have a location nearby. Plus, their online platform allows you to shop from home and pick up your order in-store—often the same day. This is especially helpful if your local store doesn’t carry a specific grip in stock. You can order it online and have it ready for pickup within hours, sometimes even while you’re grabbing new shoes or a water bottle for the course.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about buying golf grips at Academy Sports. We’ll cover what brands and types they carry, how to check store availability, whether they offer installation services, and tips for choosing the right grip for your game. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned club regular, this information will help you make the most of your next trip to Academy.

Key Takeaways

• Academy Sports carries golf grips in many of its retail locations. While not every store stocks them on the shelf, most have them available through in-store pickup or special order.
• Popular brands like Golf Pride, Winn, and Lamkin are commonly available. These trusted names offer a variety of grip styles, textures, and sizes to suit different playing preferences.
• Online shopping with in-store pickup is a reliable option. You can browse and purchase grips on Academy’s website and collect them at your nearest store, often within hours.
• Grip installation services may be offered at some locations. A few Academy stores provide basic club repair services, including grip replacement, though this varies by location.
• Prices are competitive and budget-friendly. Academy typically offers grips at lower prices than specialty golf shops, making them a great value for casual and recreational players.
• Checking store inventory online saves time. Use the “Check Store Availability” feature on the Academy Sports website to see if your local store has the grip you need in stock.
• Seasonal promotions can lead to discounts. Look out for sales during spring and summer golf seasons, when Academy often runs deals on golf accessories.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Does Academy Sports sell golf grips in all their stores?

No, not all Academy Sports locations carry golf grips on the shelf. Availability varies by store size and location. Use the website’s “Check Store Availability” tool or call your local store to confirm.

Can I order golf grips online and pick them up at Academy?

Yes, Academy Sports offers online ordering with in-store pickup. You can purchase grips on their website and collect them at your nearest store, often within hours.

Do Academy Sports employees help with grip selection?

While staff may not be golf experts, they can assist with basic questions and help you locate products. For detailed advice, check product descriptions and reviews online.

Are golf grips at Academy Sports cheaper than at pro shops?

Generally, yes. Academy typically offers lower prices on grips compared to specialty golf retailers, making them a budget-friendly option.

Can I get my clubs re-gripped at Academy Sports?

Most Academy stores do not offer grip installation services. Some larger locations may provide basic repairs, but it’s best to call ahead or do it yourself at home.

What Golf Grips Does Academy Sports Carry?

Academy Sports stocks a variety of golf grips from well-known manufacturers, making it a viable option for golfers looking to replace or upgrade their current setup. While their in-store selection may not be as extensive as a specialty golf retailer, they focus on offering reliable, high-demand products that appeal to the average player.

Popular Brands Available

Some of the most common brands you’ll find at Academy Sports include:

– Golf Pride: One of the most trusted names in golf grips, Golf Pride offers models like the Tour Velvet, MCC, and MCC Plus4. These grips are known for their durability, comfort, and consistent performance. The Tour Velvet, in particular, is a favorite among recreational golfers for its soft feel and excellent traction.
– Winn: Winn grips are popular for their cushioned feel and vibration-dampening properties. The Winn Dri-Tac and Winn Excel lines are frequently available at Academy and are great for players with joint pain or those who prefer a softer grip.
– Lamkin: Lamkin offers a wide range of grips, including the Crossline and UTx models. These are known for their textured surfaces and all-weather performance. The UTx, in particular, combines rubber and cord materials for enhanced control in wet conditions.

These brands cover a broad spectrum of playing styles and preferences, so whether you like a firm, responsive grip or something softer and more forgiving, Academy likely has an option that fits.

Grip Types and Sizes

Academy typically carries standard grip sizes—undersize, standard, midsize, and oversize—to accommodate different hand sizes and swing styles. Most adult male golfers use standard or midsize grips, while women and players with smaller hands often prefer undersize. Oversize grips can help reduce hand tension and are popular among seniors or those with arthritis.

In terms of material, you’ll find rubber, cord, and hybrid grips. Rubber grips are the most common and offer a good balance of comfort and durability. Cord grips are firmer and provide more feedback, making them ideal for players who want a better feel of the clubhead. Hybrid grips, like the Golf Pride MCC Plus4, combine rubber and cord materials for a blend of comfort and control.

Specialty and Custom Options

While Academy doesn’t typically stock highly customized or limited-edition grips, they do offer some specialty options. For example, you might find junior grips for younger players or putter grips designed for better alignment and feel on the green. However, if you’re looking for something truly unique—like a personalized grip with your name or a specific color not commonly sold—you may need to order through a specialty retailer or online golf shop.

That said, Academy’s online store sometimes features seasonal or promotional grips that aren’t available in physical locations. For instance, during the spring golf season, they may carry limited-edition colors or collaboration models from brands like Golf Pride. It’s worth checking their website periodically if you’re looking for something a little different.

How to Check If Your Local Store Has Golf Grips in Stock

One of the biggest concerns when shopping for golf grips at a big-box retailer like Academy Sports is whether your local store actually carries them. Unlike golf-specific stores that dedicate entire sections to grips and club components, Academy stores vary in how they display and stock golf accessories.

Use the Academy Sports Website

The easiest way to check availability is by visiting the Academy Sports website and using the “Check Store Availability” feature. Here’s how:

1. Go to [academy.com](https://www.academy.com).
2. Search for “golf grips” in the search bar.
3. Browse the results and click on the specific grip you’re interested in.
4. On the product page, enter your ZIP code or select your preferred store.
5. The site will show whether the item is in stock at that location and whether it’s available for in-store pickup.

This feature is updated in real time, so you can trust the information. If the grip is in stock, you can reserve it online and pick it up within hours—no need to wander the aisles hoping to find it.

Call Your Local Store

If you prefer speaking directly with someone, calling your nearest Academy Sports store is another reliable option. The staff can check their inventory system and confirm whether they have the grip you want. They may also be able to tell you if they can special order it for you, even if it’s not currently on the shelf.

When calling, be ready to provide the brand, model, and size of the grip you’re looking for. For example: “I’m looking for a Golf Pride MCC Plus4 in midsize, standard taper.” This helps the associate locate the exact product quickly.

Visit the Store in Person

If you’re already planning a trip to Academy, you can always stop by and check the golf section. Golf accessories are usually located near the golf clubs, bags, and shoes. Look for a display labeled “Golf Accessories” or “Club Components.” If you don’t see grips on the shelf, ask an employee—they may be stored behind the counter or in a back room.

Keep in mind that smaller Academy locations may not carry grips at all, especially if they have limited space. Larger stores in metropolitan areas are more likely to have a fuller selection.

Can You Get Golf Grips Installed at Academy Sports?

One question many golfers have is whether Academy Sports offers grip installation services. After all, replacing grips isn’t as simple as swapping out a battery—it requires the right tools, grip tape, solvent, and a bit of know-how.

Installation Services: What to Expect

As of now, Academy Sports does not have a formal club repair or grip installation service at most locations. Unlike pro shops or specialty golf retailers, they don’t typically employ certified club fitters or technicians who can re-grip your clubs on-site.

However, some larger Academy stores may offer basic repair services, including grip replacement, as part of their customer service offerings. This is more common in stores located near golf-heavy communities or those with a dedicated sporting goods service desk.

If you’re unsure, it’s best to call your local store and ask: “Do you offer grip installation services?” If they do, they’ll likely charge a small fee per club—usually between $5 and $10, depending on the grip type and complexity.

DIY Grip Installation Tips

If your local Academy doesn’t offer installation, don’t worry—replacing grips is a task most golfers can handle at home with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

– New grips (obviously!)
– Grip tape (double-sided)
– Grip solvent (or mineral spirits)
– A vise or clamp to hold the club
– A grip installation tool or rod
– A towel or rag

The process is straightforward:

1. Remove the old grip by cutting it off with a utility knife or using a grip removal tool.
2. Clean the shaft thoroughly to remove old tape and residue.
3. Apply new double-sided grip tape to the shaft.
4. Pour grip solvent inside the new grip and on the tape to lubricate.
5. Slide the grip onto the shaft quickly before the solvent dries.
6. Align the grip properly and let it dry for a few hours.

Many golfers find that once they’ve done it a few times, re-gripping takes less than 10 minutes per club. Academy often sells grip installation kits online, which include tape, solvent, and instructions—making it even easier to get started.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re re-gripping a full set of 14 clubs, it might be worth visiting a local pro shop or golf repair service. They can do the job quickly and ensure each grip is aligned correctly. However, for a single putter or wedge, doing it yourself is usually the most cost-effective option.

Comparing Academy Sports to Other Retailers

When it comes to buying golf grips, you have several options: big-box retailers like Academy Sports, specialty golf shops, online retailers, and even big-box stores like Walmart or Dick’s Sporting Goods. So how does Academy stack up?

Price and Value

Academy Sports is known for competitive pricing, and golf grips are no exception. You’ll typically find grips priced between $8 and $15 each, depending on the brand and model. This is often lower than what you’d pay at a pro shop, where prices can range from $12 to $20 per grip, plus installation fees.

For example, a Golf Pride Tour Velvet grip might cost $12.99 at Academy, while the same grip could be $16.99 at a local golf store. Over a full set of clubs, that difference adds up.

Selection and Convenience

While specialty golf shops offer a wider variety of grips—including custom colors, textures, and limited editions—Academy provides enough options for the average golfer. Their selection focuses on reliability and value, which is perfect if you’re not looking for anything too exotic.

The real advantage of Academy is convenience. If you’re already shopping for athletic wear, shoes, or outdoor gear, picking up a few grips at the same time saves a trip. Plus, their online pickup option means you don’t have to wait for shipping.

Customer Service and Expertise

One area where specialty shops have an edge is expertise. Staff at golf pro shops are usually avid golfers themselves and can offer personalized recommendations based on your swing, hand size, and playing conditions. Academy employees may not have the same level of golf-specific knowledge, but they’re generally helpful and can assist with basic questions.

If you’re unsure which grip to choose, Academy’s website includes product descriptions, customer reviews, and sizing guides to help you decide.

Tips for Choosing the Right Golf Grip at Academy Sports

With so many options available, picking the right grip can feel overwhelming. Here are some practical tips to help you make the best choice when shopping at Academy.

Consider Your Hand Size

Grip size is one of the most important factors. A grip that’s too small can cause you to grip the club too tightly, leading to tension and reduced swing speed. A grip that’s too large can make it hard to release the club properly.

As a general rule:
– Men with smaller hands: undersize or standard
– Men with average to large hands: standard or midsize
– Women: undersize or standard
– Seniors or players with arthritis: midsize or oversize for comfort

If you’re unsure, try holding a grip at the store or compare it to your current one. Your fingers should just barely touch your palm when you grip the club.

Think About Weather and Playing Conditions

If you play in humid or rainy climates, consider a cord or hybrid grip like the Golf Pride MCC or Lamkin UTx. These materials provide better traction when wet. For dry, warm weather, a soft rubber grip like the Winn Dri-Tac offers excellent comfort.

Match Your Grip to Your Swing

Players with fast swings may prefer a firmer grip for better control, while those with slower swings might benefit from a softer, more forgiving option. If you tend to slice the ball, a grip with more texture on the underside can help promote a stronger grip and reduce hand rotation.

Don’t Forget the Putter

Many golfers overlook their putter grip, but it’s just as important as the ones on your irons. Academy carries a range of putter grips, including oversized models that can help reduce wrist action and improve consistency on the green.

Seasonal Sales and Promotions

Academy Sports frequently runs promotions on golf gear, especially during peak seasons. Here’s when to look for deals:

– Spring (March–May): As golf season kicks off, Academy often discounts golf accessories, including grips.
– Summer (June–August): Look for “Summer Golf Sale” events with bundle deals on clubs, bags, and accessories.
– Holiday Sales (November–December): Black Friday and end-of-year clearance events can include discounts on golf grips.

Signing up for Academy’s email newsletter or downloading their app can alert you to upcoming sales. You can also check the “Deals” section on their website for current promotions.

Final Thoughts: Is Academy Sports a Good Place to Buy Golf Grips?

So, does Academy Sports sell golf grips in stores? Yes—and for many golfers, it’s a smart, convenient, and affordable option. While they may not have the depth of selection or expert staff of a specialty golf shop, they offer enough variety from trusted brands to meet the needs of most players.

Whether you’re replacing a single worn grip or upgrading your entire set, Academy provides a hassle-free shopping experience with the added benefit of in-store pickup. Combine that with competitive pricing and occasional sales, and it’s easy to see why so many golfers turn to Academy for their grip needs.

Just remember to check store availability online or call ahead, especially if you’re looking for a specific model or size. And if you’re new to re-gripping, consider picking up an installation kit and giving it a try at home—it’s easier than you think.

At the end of the day, the right grip can make a noticeable difference in your game. And with Academy Sports, getting your hands on one has never been more convenient.

Frequently Asked Questions

What brands of golf grips does Academy Sports carry?

Academy Sports carries popular brands like Golf Pride, Winn, and Lamkin. These include models such as the Golf Pride Tour Velvet, Winn Dri-Tac, and Lamkin Crossline.

How much do golf grips cost at Academy Sports?

Prices typically range from $8 to $15 per grip, depending on the brand and model. This is often lower than prices at specialty golf shops.

Can I return golf grips if they don’t fit?

Yes, Academy Sports has a return policy that allows returns within 90 days with a receipt. Make sure the grips are unused and in original packaging.

Do I need special tools to install golf grips?

Yes, you’ll need grip tape, solvent, a vise, and an installation tool. Academy sells grip installation kits online that include these items.

Are there different sizes of golf grips at Academy?

Yes, Academy offers standard, midsize, undersize, and oversize grips to fit different hand sizes and preferences.

Does Academy Sports offer discounts on golf grips?

Yes, look for seasonal sales in spring and summer, as well as holiday promotions like Black Friday, when discounts on golf accessories are common.