Which GP-Grip Is Right for Your Ride? (Before JK, JK, JL, Gladiator & 2024+ Guide)
A grab handle sounds like a simple upgrade — until you start shopping for one. Then suddenly you're comparing roll bars, airbags, headrests, vehicle years, mounting systems, and whether the handle will stay put or swing into your window like a tiny wrecking ball.
The good news is that GPCA built several handle systems because vehicles — and the people climbing into them — are not all the same. The right choice depends less on which model is "best" and more on where you want the handle, what you drive, and how you plan to use it.
Start with the mounting location
There are two main places to add a GPCA handle: the roll bar or the back of a headrest. Roll bar handles suit the driver and front or rear passengers in compatible Jeeps and adventure vehicles. Headrest handles serve rear passengers across a much wider range of cars, trucks, SUVs, and crossovers.
GP-Grip PRO — for Jeep owners who want the full utility setup
The GP-Grip PRO is the most feature-rich roll bar option for 2007–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, 2018–2023 JL, and compatible Gladiator JT models. Its solid aluminum handle folds away instead of swinging, keeping the window view clear and the handle out of the way when it's not needed.
The PRO system also adds an inner pocket for small essentials and a reversible utility pouch compatible with MOLLE-style accessories. It's a strong choice for drivers who want a handle that doubles as part of the vehicle's organization system.
GP-Grip AIR — for 2024+ Wrangler models with side-curtain airbags
The 2024+ Wrangler added side-curtain airbags along the roll bar area. That means older handle designs cannot simply be carried forward — the airbag burst zone changes everything.
The GP-Grip AIR was developed specifically for this newer layout. Its patented strap routing clears the side-curtain airbag zone while still delivering a solid, foldable aluminum grip. For a 2024+ Gladiator, choose the two-handle front package rather than a four-handle setup. Note: GP-Grip AIR is not compatible with the Sky One-Touch roof configuration.
→ Shop GP-Grip AIR for 2024+ Jeep Wrangler
GP-Grip Universal — for roll bars, racks, ATVs, boats, and creative mounts
Not every useful mounting point belongs to a Jeep. The GP-Grip Universal fits a broad range of bars and tubes — approximately 0.75 to 5.5 inches in diameter — opening the door to older Jeeps, UTVs, ATVs, truck racks, equipment frames, boat rails, and other outdoor setups.
It's the flexible problem-solver of the lineup. It doesn't replace an airbag-compatible vehicle-specific handle, but it's ideal when the mounting point is simply a strong tube that needs a better grip.
GP Back Grip PRO — for nearly any car or truck
The GP Back Grip PRO moves the handle away from the roll bar and onto the front-seat headrests, giving rear passengers a solid place to hold. This makes it useful well beyond Jeeps: lifted trucks, family SUVs, Teslas, crossovers, work vehicles, and everyday cars can all benefit.
It's especially helpful for children, older passengers, and anyone entering a tall vehicle. The PRO model is available for both removable and non-removable headrest setups.
Quick comparison
| Model | Best for | Mount | Key advantage | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP-Grip PRO | 2007–2023 Wrangler JK/JL, Gladiator JT | Roll bar | Foldable grip, storage pocket, utility pouch | Not safe for 2024+ airbag layout |
| GP-Grip AIR | 2024+ Wrangler; front of 2024+ Gladiator | Roll bar | Airbag-compatible patented design | Not for Sky One-Touch roof |
| GP-Grip Universal | ATV, UTV, boat, rack, older vehicles | Tube/bar 0.75"–5.5" | Wide mounting range | Not an airbag solution |
| GP Back Grip PRO | Cars, trucks, SUVs, Jeeps, Teslas | Headrest | Universal rear-passenger support | Choose correct headrest version |
The simple answer
Choose GP-Grip PRO for a full-featured 2007–2023 Jeep roll bar setup. Choose GP-Grip AIR for a 2024+ Wrangler with side-curtain airbags. Choose GP-Grip Universal when your mounting point is a bar or rack outside those vehicle-specific setups. Choose GP Back Grip PRO when the handle belongs behind the seat, not above the door.
The best handle isn't the one with the longest feature list. It's the one that fits your ride correctly, stays where you expect it, and makes every climb-in a little more confident.
Gear Mentioned in This Post
- GP-Grip PRO — Foldable aluminum handle for Jeep JK/JL/JT 2007–2023
- GP-Grip AIR — Airbag-safe handle for 2024+ Jeep Wrangler
- GP-Grip Universal — Clamps onto any bar 0.75″–5.5″ — trucks, UTVs, ATVs, boats
- GP Back Grip PRO — Headrest handle for rear passengers in nearly any vehicle
