Grips are devices that are worn on the hands of
artistic gymnasts when performing on various gymnastics apparatus. They are worn by female gymnasts on the
uneven bars, and by male gymnasts on the
high bar, and
still rings; is rarely seen that a male gymnast uses grips for parallel bars. They are used to enhance the gymnast's grip on the apparatus, and also to reduce (but not eliminate) the friction that can cause painful blisters and
rips, in which outer layers of skin separate and tear away from the hand.