GARDEN CAPSULE

The challenge: The soft grips on some of your garden tools are crumbling, and some of your other tools have hard handles that are uncomfortable to use for long periods.

The solution: Replace each problem grip with a new product called Re-Grip. Slide the grip onto the handle where you want it, then pull the inner plastic strip. The grip will then automatically shrink to fit

and adhere to the handle.

Choose from three sizes to fit almost any handle, from a small trowel up to the big handles on tools such as a wheelbarrow or a post-hole digger.

Pluses: Re-grip is easy to install without heat or glue. The grips are antislip, comfortable and vibration-resistant. They are also both water-resistant and UV-resistant and are manufactured using some recycled materials.

The grips work not only for garden tools but also for fishing poles, golf clubs, bikes, hammers, sledges, drills and a host of other tools.

Minuses: Ranging in price from $10 to $12 depending on size, the cost of Re-Grips could add up if you have a lot of tools that need replacement grips. (There is a slight price break if you buy Re-Grips in boxes of eight, though, not to mention that refurbishing old tools is less expensive than buying new ones.)

Sources: For more information including a video on installing Re-Grip, a sizing chart and a retail store locator, go to re-grip.com.

RE-GRIP Re-Grip allows you to easily replace a worn-out grip on any garden tool or add a grip on any tool handle that is uncomfortable to use.