Guide · Handles and ropes
D-handles: steel, urethane and strap versions compared by spec
Grip diameter, strap or rigid, length, single or pair and carabiner inclusion for the D-handle cable attachments makers publish specs for.
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Short answer
Compare D-handles on four published specs: grip diameter, whether the handle hangs from a strap or is rigid, whether the price is for one handle or a pair, and whether a carabiner is included. Makers list grips from 25 mm to 34 mm, and none of the makers we read gives these handles a load rating.
REP's three D-handles
REP sells its D-handle in Steel, Urethane and Pro Series versions, singly or in pairs, and states that a carabiner is not included.[1]
- Steel: 32 mm grip, on a 10.3-inch nylon strap.[1]
- Urethane: 34 mm grip, on a 9.5-inch nylon strap.[1]
- Pro Series: 25 mm grip, rigid with no strap, 5 inches overall.[1]
REP gives the steel and urethane handles a 5.9-inch handle length and publishes no load rating for any of the three.[1]
A strap lets the grip turn and tilt with your hand. A rigid handle keeps the grip in a fixed line with the connector. Neither is shown to be better; it is a feel preference.
Other handles and what their makers publish
Rogue's Rotating V-Grip uses 32 mm anodized aluminum handles, 5 inches long, on a 360-degree swivel.[2] It is a two-hand handle, but its grip diameter is a useful comparison point.
MAG's product page lists nine models by grip with product codes, such as close, medium and wide grips.[3] It publishes no materials, load ratings or connection details, so you cannot compare MAG handles on those points.
PRIME Fitness lists its RO-T8 handles as a pair under SKU 1202742.[4] The page describes a swivel design but gives no dimensions, materials, connector, carabiner inclusion or rating, and it showed the handles as unavailable when checked.
Side by side
| Handle | Grip diameter | Strap or rigid | Length | Sold as | Carabiner | Rating published |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| REP Steel | 32 mm | 10.3 in strap | 5.9 in handle | Single or pair | Not included | No |
| REP Urethane | 34 mm | 9.5 in strap | 5.9 in handle | Single or pair | Not included | No |
| REP Pro Series | 25 mm | Rigid | 5 in overall | Single or pair | Not included | No |
| Rogue Rotating V-Grip | 32 mm | Rigid, swivel hub | 5 in handles | Not stated | Not stated | Not stated |
| PRIME RO-T8 | Not published | Swivel described | Not published | Pair | Not stated | No |
| MAG models | Not published | Not published | Not published | Not stated | Not stated | No |
Which grip diameter to choose
Makers range from about 25 mm to 34 mm. We found no study that ranks one grip diameter above another for cable work. A smaller hand may find a thin grip easier to close; a larger one may prefer a thicker grip. If you already own a barbell or a pull-up bar you like, its diameter is a reasonable reference.
Count the units. A listing priced for one handle and a listing priced for a pair are not the same offer. Add a carabiner if the maker says none is included, and check whether your carabiner fits the handle's loop.
Two-hand alternative: the double D handle
A double D handle puts two parallel grips on one frame for close-grip rows. It is a different attachment from a single D-handle and does not replace a pair for single-arm work. These approved picks are double D handles.
Picks that fit2 products
These are double D (two-grip) row handles, not single D-handles. On Synergee's listing choose 'c) Double D Handle' or 'd) Double D Handle with Grip'; Yes4All sells one chrome Double D.
More on choosing
On Amazon, check that 'Ships from / Sold by' shows Amazon.com or the brand.
Double D row handle with a listed grip diameter
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Questions
What grip diameter should a D-handle have?
Makers range from about 25 mm to 34 mm: REP lists 25 mm, 32 mm and 34 mm versions, and Rogue's V-grip handles are 32 mm. We found no study that ranks one diameter above another, so choose by your hand size and comfort.[1][2]
Are D-handles sold in pairs?
It depends on the listing. REP sells its D-handle singly or in pairs, while PRIME lists its RO-T8 handles as a pair under one SKU. Check the unit before you compare listings.[1][4]