The Best Liquid Chalk

Buying Guide

Being an athlete is hard work. Whether you’re powerlifting, rock climbing or playing ball, you need to be in tiptop shape. You’ll work out your arms, legs, abs and other muscles, as well as preparing yourself mentally.

But what about your hands? Hands play an integral role in many types of sports, from basketball to wrestling to competitive weightlifting. Over time, all that hard work can wear on your sensitive skin. But, more importantly, the perspiration that builds up during practices or competitions can make your hands slippery, keeping you from the peak performance you need.

That’s where chalk can come in. For years, athletes have been using magnesium carbonate to keep their hands dry during athletic events. Studies have even connected chalk to improved performance. Due to this proven success, weightlifters have adopted chalk as a way to boost their grip at the gym. But there are some issues with the block chalk athletes have used over the years.

Liquid chalk has emerged as a great alternative to block chalk, overcoming some of those challenges. Block chalk can be messy, leaving residue on your clothing and anything you touch. Some gyms have even banned block chalk because of that residue. But even if you work out at home, you might not want to leave white powder behind on your barbells. Liquid chalk will keep the product on your hands where it belongs.

Block chalk can also wear away as you start to perspire. Liquid chalk can do the same, but the format makes it easier for manufacturers to build some sweat resistance into the formula. Some even include antibacterial ingredients to help you fight germs while you work out. The best thing about liquid chalk, though, is that it’s usually formulated to stay on while you need it, even with moisture building up, but it quickly comes off once you’re finished with your workout.

• Before using liquid chalk, wash your hands and make sure they’re completely dry. You’ll also want to shake the bottle to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Liquid chalk is not applied like lotion. You’ll spread it on without rubbing it in, then wait 20 to 30 seconds for it to dry before starting your workout.
• Try not to overdo it when using liquid chalk. You’ll want a thin coat across the surface of each palm to avoid clumping, which can cause your hands to slip.
• You can choose from a variety of sizes with your liquid chalk. Smaller bottles will easily fit in your tote bag, with some even hooking to the outside or your belt loop. Larger bottles will last longer and reduce waste, though.
• Some liquid chalk can have an unpleasant odor. Look into this before you buy. Manufacturers may also include scents to mask the natural odor of their chalks. If you’re sensitive to artificial scents, look for an unscented or lightly scented chalk.
• Although alcohol will keep your palms dry while gripping, it can also dry out your hands if used regularly. Look for liquid chalk that doesn’t include alcohol in the formula.
• Magnesium carbonate is the active ingredient in liquid chalk. A formula with pure magnesium carbonate will help cut down on artificial ingredients that dry out your hands. It can also help you steer clear of toxic chemicals.
• If you’re using chalk for competitive sports, pay close attention to the rules beforehand. Some competitions have a list of approved products, and if your chosen chalk isn’t on that list, you could find you’re unable to use it.
• Once your chalk is in place, you’ll need to be careful what you touch. Something as simple as clapping for a teammate could rub some of your chalk away.
• Some athletes mix traditional chalk with honey to get a thicker, less dry consistency. You’ll also find liquid chalk that includes honey in the formula to keep your hands from drying out.