SQlab’s 711 Tech and Trail 2.0 S grip pushes the boundaries of ergonomics even further than the previously reviewed 70X. The heavily sculpted contours offer a level of support and damping that’s yet to be found on any of the proponents in the best MTB grips space though the shape won’t suit everyone, and traction is limited due to the lack of texture.
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SQlab Tech and Trail 2.0 - Technical details
The 711 Tech and Trail grip is designed for touring and long-distance riding. SQlab has pushed harder in the pursuit of ultimate flat-bar ergonomics and that’s incredibly clear due to the shape of the grip. However, it’s not just the shape that plays a part in ergonomics as it’s built with the brand’s shock absorption compound, which as you’ll hopefully have guessed, is a softer rubber compound that’s designed to dampen vibrations.
SQlab has endeavoured to make the 711 as comfortable as a winged grip without being one. There's a flattened outer shape that’s placed slightly more forwards on the bar which is said to reduce pressure. There’s also been more material added here to help absorb vibrations. Then towards the outer, the grip raises, something SQlab say will help to keep the hand in place.
Just like the more trail and downhill-orientated 70X, the 711 gets the Ergobar design which is a wave-shaped profile that offers an area for the fingers to grip. The wave shape then fits the length of each individual finger.
There’s a single lock ring on the inside edge of the grip which SQlab says further improves comfort. The grip can then accommodate the brand’s Innerbarends (if required). Both grips weigh in at 136g.
On offer, there are three sizes, and as expected from SQlab, it’s recommended that you measure your hand to determine which size you need. The test grips pictured here are medium in size.
SQlab Tech and Trail 2.0 - Performance
Because the 711 is so contoured, it takes a little bit of trial and error to set it in the perfect position. Ideally, this is where the fingers wrap nicely around the Ergobar in the right place, with the edge of the palm making the most of the flat, flared outer. However, a few mid-ride tweaks during the start of a ride is all it takes to nail down the perfect position. The markings on the grip’s collar help with this, too.
Even though my hand was measured for this grip, it felt a little too fat. I had to bring my brake levers closer to the bar than usual. But while riding, this extra girth had no negatives.
Once the position is sorted, the 711 is seriously comfortable. It suits the hand’s natural curves and bends perfectly. This raises any handlebar's ergonomics dramatically. Over longer distances, hand fatigue set in far later and thanks to the vibration-damping rubber compound - arm pump was never an issue.
Because this grip is so lightly textured, I did find myself over-gripping the bar occasionally, especially when tackling tech. And then when the grip is wet, well there’s no grip at all. Some texture to help shed moisture and increase grip would seriously improve these grips.
SQLab Tech and Trail 2.0 - Verdict
While this grip can be appreciated by trail riders, those who ride long distances, or for leisure will make the most of the 711. They improve ergonomics while adding a helpful damping character that’ll leave your hands feeling fresh deep into a ride.
Similar grips often come with a wing, which includes Ergon’s GA3 which cost £32. This grip is built with a small wing which may be distracting to those who don’t want that kind of support but it is more heavily textured, so it offers more grip.
However, there are very few grips on the market that push ergonomics as hard as the 711, so with most grips around, it’ll be an unfair comparison.
If you’re looking to improve your cockpit’s ergonomics and boost comfort over long distances, the SQlab 711 Tech and Trail is a solid choice, thanks to its heavily contoured design and squishy, vibration-damping rubber. However, the grip wains when wet, and the grip’s profile won’t suit all riders.
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