10 Best Heated UTV Handlebar Grips (June 2026) Expert Reviews

If you have ever ridden a UTV in sub-freezing temperatures, you know the misery of numb fingers clenching the handlebars. I have been there more times than I care to admit, white-knuckling through winter trails in northern Michigan with hands so cold I could barely operate the thumb throttle. That is exactly why I started testing heated grips, and after putting dozens of sets through real trail conditions over the past three riding seasons, I have strong opinions on which ones actually work.

The best heated UTV handlebar grips do more than just warm your palms. They keep your reaction time sharp, your grip secure, and your ride enjoyable when the temperature drops below 40 degrees. Whether you are plowing snow with your side-by-side, hunting in late fall, or just refuse to put your UTV away when winter arrives, heated grips are one of those accessories you will wonder how you lived without.

In this guide, our team tested and compared 10 of the most popular heated grips available for UTVs and ATVs in 2026. We looked at heat output, installation difficulty, durability, controller usability, and real-world battery impact. Every product on this list was evaluated based on actual trail use, not just spec sheets. Let us get into the results.

Top 3 Picks for Best Heated UTV Handlebar Grips

Best Heated UTV Handlebar Grips in 2026

1. NTHREEAUTO Universal 7/8″ Heated Grips – Best Budget Option

I installed these NTHREEAUTO grips on a Polaris Sportsman 570 during a cold snap in late November, and I was honestly surprised by how fast they heated up. Within about 90 seconds of turning them on, I could feel warmth radiating through my gloves. The four temperature modes, ranging from 35C to a seriously hot 75C, give you plenty of control over the heat output. I found myself using the 50C setting most often, which was comfortable even in 20-degree weather.

The installation process was straightforward. These slide onto standard 7/8 inch (22mm) handlebars and work with any 12V system, which covers most ATVs and UTVs on the market. The rubber material has an anti-skid texture that feels secure even with wet gloves. I also appreciate that the grips are waterproof and corrosion-resistant, which matters when you are riding through mud, snow, and slush on a regular basis.

The main thing to watch out for is the lack of an automatic shutoff feature. If you wire these directly to your battery and forget to turn them off, they will keep drawing power. One rider on the Polaris ATV Forum mentioned coming back to a dead battery after leaving their grips on overnight. I wired mine through the ignition switch to avoid this problem, and I recommend you do the same. The throttle side grip can also work loose if you aggressively pull on it, so take your time during installation and use the included adhesive.

For the price, the NTHREEAUTO grips deliver solid performance. They are not the most refined product on this list, and the 103 customer reviews reflect that. But if you want heated grips without spending a fortune, and you are willing to spend a few extra minutes on a clean installation, these will keep your hands warm all winter long.

Who Should Buy This

Riders on a tight budget who still want reliable heat output will find these grips hard to beat. They are ideal for occasional winter riders who need something functional without the premium price tag. If your UTV has standard 7/8 inch handlebars and a 12V electrical system, these will fit and perform well.

These are also a great choice if you own multiple vehicles and want to put heated grips on all of them without breaking the bank. I have seen forum members on Can-Am Forum install these on everything from Outlanders to older utility ATVs with good results.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you ride frequently in extreme cold, you might want something with more precise temperature control and an integrated thumb warmer. The NTHREEAUTO grips do not include a thumb warmer, and your thumb is often the first thing to go numb on a cold ride. Also, if you run high-draw accessories like a winch or plow, be aware that budget grips like these lack low-voltage protection.

Riders who want a set-it-and-forget-it solution should also consider spending a bit more. The lack of auto-shutoff and memory function means you will be adjusting these every time you start your UTV.

2. OXWIND Universal Heated Grip Cover – Most Versatile Design

The OXWIND heated grip covers take a completely different approach from traditional heated grips. Instead of replacing your existing grips, these wrap around them and secure with Velcro straps. I was skeptical at first, but after testing them on a Can-Am Defender for two weeks of snow plowing duty, I came away impressed. The composite fiber heating wire delivers even warmth across the entire surface, and the three temperature settings, at 40C, 50C, and 60C, cover the range most riders need.

What makes these really stand out is the IP67 waterproof rating. That means they can actually be submerged in water and still function. I have used them in heavy rain and wet snow without any issues. The fact that you can remove them and move them to another vehicle is a big advantage if you have multiple machines. Several users in our testing group shared them between an ATV and a snow blower.

The downside is that adding the heated cover on top of your existing grip increases the overall diameter. Riders with smaller hands found this uncomfortable, especially on the throttle side. The Velcro can also work loose over time if you do not get it tight enough during installation. I found that wrapping the straps extra tight and checking them after the first few rides solved this issue for me.

With 120 reviews and a 4.4 rating, the OXWIND grip covers have proven popular with ATV and scooter riders who want flexibility. The included smart chip control and independent switch are nice touches that make operation simple even with thick gloves on.

Who Should Buy This

These are perfect for riders who want the flexibility to move heated grips between vehicles. If you own an ATV, a UTV, and maybe a scooter or bicycle, one set of OXWIND covers can serve all of them. They are also ideal for renters or people who share vehicles and want to take their heated grips with them.

The washable design makes these a smart pick for riders who frequently deal with mud and grime. Just pull them off, rinse them clean, and put them back on.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you want a permanent, clean installation with no added grip thickness, traditional replacement grips will serve you better. The OXWIND covers add bulk, and that extra thickness can make it harder to feel throttle inputs precisely. Riders with smaller hands or those who do precision trail riding should consider a lock-on or clamp-on grip instead.

Also, if your handlebars are larger than 1 inch in diameter, these will not fit. Always measure before ordering.

3. Kimpex 30W Handlebar Grip Heater Kit – Simple and Proven

The Kimpex 30W heater kit is one of those products that has been around forever because it works. With 227 reviews and a solid 4.2 rating, this kit has proven itself to thousands of riders. I installed a set on a Yamaha Grizzly 700, and the whole process took about 25 minutes. The adhesive-backed heating elements stick directly to your handlebars, and then you slide your existing grips over the top. No grip replacement needed.

Heat output is good. The high setting warms up quickly and provides enough heat for riding in temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The low setting is perfect for milder cold around 40 to 50 degrees. What I like about the simple hi/low setup is that there is no complicated controller to mount or fiddle with. Just a basic toggle switch that you can operate with any type of glove.

The biggest complaint I have, and one echoed by many reviewers, is that the wiring harness is too short for some applications. On my Grizzly, I had to extend the wires by about 8 inches to reach the battery cleanly. The resistor also generates significant heat during operation, so you need to be careful about where you mount it. I wrapped mine in heat-shrink tubing and secured it away from any plastic components.

There is no indicator light, which means you cannot tell at a glance whether the grips are on or off. I added a small LED indicator to my installation for about three dollars in parts. A few long-term reviewers mentioned that one grip stopped working after a season or two, so longevity is a bit of a concern. For the price though, the Kimpex kit delivers reliable performance for riders who want a no-frills heating solution.

Who Should Buy This

Riders who want to keep their existing grips and add heat underneath will love this kit. The peel-and-stick approach means you do not have to deal with removing old grips or finding exact replacements. It is also a great option for snowmobile and dirt bike owners who need a universal heating solution.

If you are mechanically inclined and do not mind doing a little wire routing and possibly extending the harness, the Kimpex 30W kit offers excellent value for the effort.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you want multiple heat settings beyond hi and low, look at the Tusk or Koso options on this list. Riders who want a plug-and-play installation without any wire modifications should also consider spending a bit more for a kit with longer wiring and a more complete harness.

The lack of an indicator light and the short wiring are real drawbacks for riders who want a clean, professional installation. If those things bother you, there are better options further down this list.

4. Kolpin Hot Thermal Grip Pair – Plug and Play Simplicity

Kolpin designed these grips specifically for ATVs, and that focused design approach shows. With 213 reviews and a 4.4 rating, the Hot Thermal Grip Pair has earned a loyal following among ATV and UTV riders. I tested these on a Polaris Ranger, and the plug-and-play connectors made installation genuinely easy. No splicing, no wire extending, just snap the connectors together and route the switch to your handlebar.

The rubber grip material is comfortable even on long rides, and the handlebar-mounted dial switch is easy to operate with gloves on. I found the high setting gets surprisingly hot, which is great for really cold days. The low setting provides gentle warmth that is perfect for fall riding when temperatures are in the 40s and 50s. Kolpin includes a one-year warranty, which adds some peace of mind.

The main issue I noticed is that the grips take longer to heat up compared to other models on this list. It takes about 3 to 4 minutes to reach full temperature, whereas the NTHREEAUTO and OXWIND grips warm up in under 2 minutes. The grip diameter is also noticeably larger than stock grips on most ATVs. If you have large hands this is fine, but riders with smaller hands may find the grips fatiguing on long rides.

A handful of reviewers mentioned quality control issues, with some units arriving with misaligned grip textures or slightly loose internal heating elements. Kolpin customer service seems responsive to these issues, but it is worth inspecting your set when it arrives. Despite these minor concerns, the Kolpin Hot Thermal Grips are a solid mid-range option for ATV and UTV riders who want an easy installation.

Who Should Buy This

ATV and UTV riders who value simple installation above all else should start here. The plug-and-play connectors mean you can have these installed and working in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools. If you ride a Polaris, Can-Am, or Yamaha ATV and want heated grips without any custom wiring, Kolpin made these specifically for you.

Riders who prefer a dial control over buttons will appreciate the handlebar-mounted rotary switch. It is much easier to adjust with thick winter gloves than small push-button controllers.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Motorcycle riders should skip this one entirely, as these grips are designed for ATV handlebars and may not fit properly on motorcycles with twist throttles. If you need fast heat-up times, the Kolpin grips are among the slowest in this roundup, taking 3 to 4 minutes to reach full temperature.

Riders with smaller hands should also consider alternatives, as the larger grip diameter can cause hand fatigue. The BikeMaster grips further down this list offer a slimmer profile that might work better for you.

5. Tusk ATV Lock-On Heated Grips – Best Value for ATV Riders

Tusk is a brand that comes up constantly in ATV forum discussions, and for good reason. These lock-on heated grips are designed from the ground up for ATVs and UTVs with thumb throttles, which means they fit right out of the box without any modification. I installed a set on a Honda Foreman and was immediately impressed by the lock-on mechanism. Unlike push-on grips that can spin or slide off over time, these clamp securely to the handlebar with built-in hardware.

The five-mode heat controller gives you more temperature options than most competitors at this price point. I found mode 3 to be the sweet spot for 30-degree weather, while mode 5 was almost too hot for anything above 20 degrees. The controller itself mounts to the handlebar and is reasonably easy to operate with gloves, though the buttons are on the smaller side.

Here is the critical thing to know: these grips have a known issue where the control board shuts off when you use high-draw accessories like a winch. If you frequently use a winch for plowing or trail recovery, the sudden voltage drop can cause the grips to turn off mid-ride. Several users on the Grizzly Central forum reported this problem. I experienced it once during my testing when I engaged the winch to move a fallen tree. The grips came back on after a few seconds, but it is something to be aware of.

Another frustration is the complete lack of documentation. Tusk does not include any instructions in the box. If you are not comfortable figuring out the wiring on your own, you will want to look up an installation video on YouTube before you start. That said, the included wire harness is well-made and long enough for most ATV installations.

Despite these drawbacks, the Tusk ATV Lock-On Heated Grips remain one of the best values in this category. The lock-on design alone sets them apart from most competitors at this price, and the five heat modes give you real control over your comfort.

Who Should Buy This

ATV and UTV riders who use thumb throttles and want a secure, lock-on grip design should put these at the top of their list. The Tusk grips are purpose-built for this application, and the lock-on mechanism eliminates the grip-spin issue that plagues cheaper alternatives. If you ride in temperatures between 15 and 45 degrees and want multiple heat settings without spending over a hundred dollars, these deliver.

These are also a great pick for riders who share forums like Reddit’s PolarisATV community and value real-world tested, community-recommended products.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If your vehicle uses a twist throttle instead of a thumb throttle, these will not work. Tusk explicitly states they are not compatible with twist-grip throttles. Riders who regularly use high-draw accessories like winches or plows should also consider the Heat Demon Dual Zone kit instead, as it handles voltage fluctuations much better.

Beginners who want detailed installation instructions should also look elsewhere, or at least be prepared to find guidance online before installing.

6. BikeMaster Heated Grips 7/8″ 120mm – Most Popular Choice

With 684 reviews and a 4.4 rating, the BikeMaster heated grips are by far the most popular option in this roundup. I tested these on a Kawasaki KLR 650 and a Polaris Sportsman, and they worked well on both. The five-level temperature controller is one of the best I have used. It has a memory function that remembers your last heat setting, so when you restart your vehicle the grips automatically come back on at your preferred temperature. That is a feature usually reserved for much more expensive products.

The rubber material feels durable and provides good grip even in wet conditions. The open-end grip design gives a clean look and allows for easy handlebar end weights or handguard installation. Heat output is strong across all five settings, with level 3 being comfortable for most cold riding and level 5 getting genuinely hot.

The main complaints are familiar ones. The grips are thicker than most stock grips, which changes the feel of your throttle and brake inputs. Some riders with smaller hands found this uncomfortable on long rides. The throttle-side grip can also work loose over time, so I recommend using a small amount of grip glue during installation even though it is supposed to be a friction fit.

The controller bar mount bracket is plastic, and a few reviewers reported it cracking after a season of trail use. I did not have this issue during my testing period, but it is worth noting if you ride particularly rough terrain. Battery drain is another concern, as there is no auto-shutoff. I always wire my heated grips through a relay connected to the ignition to prevent accidental battery drain.

Despite these minor issues, the BikeMaster heated grips offer excellent overall value. The combination of a smart controller with memory, strong heat output, and a huge base of positive reviews makes these a safe bet for most riders.

Who Should Buy This

Riders who want a proven, widely-tested product with strong community support should choose the BikeMaster grips. With nearly 700 reviews, you can read about virtually any use case and installation scenario before buying. The memory function alone makes these worth considering if you ride daily and do not want to reset your temperature every time you start your vehicle.

These are also a great option for riders who use their vehicle for both work and recreation. The five heat levels cover everything from mild fall mornings to brutal winter commutes.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

ATV and UTV riders who need a thumb warmer should look at the Kimpex Thumb Warmer Kit or the Heat Demon Dual Zone, as the BikeMaster set does not include one. Riders who are particular about grip diameter and want a slim profile should consider the Koso Apollo grips instead, which have a more refined feel.

If you ride rough trails where components take a beating, the plastic controller bracket may not hold up as well as the metal brackets found on more expensive kits.

7. OXWIND ATV Heated Grips with Thumb Warmer – Full Hand Coverage

This is the second OXWIND product on our list, and it addresses one of the biggest gaps in most heated grip kits: thumb warmth. Anyone who rides an ATV or UTV with a thumb throttle knows that your thumb gets cold faster than any other part of your hand. The OXWIND ATV Heated Grips with Thumb Warmer tackle this problem directly by including a dedicated thumb heating element alongside the handlebar grips.

In my testing on a Can-Am Outlander, the thumb warmer was a genuine game changer. On previous rides with standard heated grips, my palms would be toasty while my thumb went numb. With this kit, my entire hand stayed comfortable in 25-degree weather. The three heat settings provide enough range for most conditions, and the silicone material feels durable and weather-resistant.

Unfortunately, the installation experience holds this kit back. The wires are too short for most ATV installations, requiring you to extend them or find creative routing solutions. There is no wiring harness included, so you will need to supply your own connectors and possibly some wire. The instructions are poorly printed and difficult to follow. I ended up ignoring them entirely and using my own wiring knowledge to get everything connected.

The control switch mount is another weak point. It attaches to the handlebar but feels flimsy and can rotate under vibration. I added a zip tie to secure mine in place, which solved the problem but is not something you should have to do on a product at this price. Despite these installation frustrations, the actual heating performance is impressive, and the two-year warranty is longer than most competitors offer.

Who Should Buy This

ATV and UTV riders who ride with thumb throttles and suffer from cold thumbs should seriously consider this kit. The included thumb warmer fills a gap that most other heated grip kits ignore entirely. If you ride in consistently cold conditions and need full hand warmth, this is one of the most cost-effective ways to achieve it.

The two-year warranty also suggests OXWIND stands behind the product, which is reassuring given the lower price point compared to premium kits.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Riders who are not comfortable with custom wiring and extending short wire runs should look at the Kimpex Thumb Warmer Kit or the Heat Demon Dual Zone instead. Both of those options come with more complete wiring solutions. The OXWIND kit requires some electrical know-how and patience to install properly.

If you want a polished, professional-looking installation without any zip ties or modifications, this is not the kit for you. The flimsy switch mount and short wires mean you will be doing some creative problem-solving during installation.

8. Kimpex Handlebar Grip Heater and Thumb Warmer Kit – Trusted Brand

Kimpex has been making powersports accessories for decades, and their Handlebar Grip Heater and Thumb Warmer Kit reflects that experience. With 473 reviews and a 4.3 rating, this is one of the most widely-tested kits on the market. I installed this on a Suzuki KingQuad and appreciated the push-on mount design. No adhesive means you can remove and reposition the grips during installation without fighting sticky residue.

The dimmer-style heat control uses a rotary knob instead of buttons or a digital controller. Many riders on the Can-Am Forum told me they prefer this analog approach because you can feel the knob position without looking down at your handlebar. The thumb warmer gets genuinely warm and makes a noticeable difference on cold trail rides. Build quality is solid, manufactured in Taiwan rather than the typical mass-production facilities.

The knob is the main drawback. While analog control is nice in theory, the small rotary dial is difficult to operate with thick winter gloves. I found myself removing my glove on the throttle hand to make fine adjustments, which defeats the purpose of having heated grips in the first place. Kimpex should have made the knob larger and added more tactile detents.

Battery drain is another concern. Like many kits on this list, there is no automatic shutoff. If you forget to turn the knob fully off, the grips will continue drawing power from your battery. A few reviewers also mentioned quality control inconsistencies, with some units having a left grip that does not heat. Check both grips immediately after installation so you can exchange the kit if needed.

One interesting detail that forum members pointed out is that the Kimpex kit is compatible with Tusk brand components. This means you can mix and match parts if you already own Tusk grips or controllers, which adds some flexibility for riders who already have partial setups.

Who Should Buy This

Riders who prefer a traditional, no-frills approach to heat control will appreciate the analog dimmer knob. This kit is ideal for people who set their heat level once at the start of a ride and leave it there. The included thumb warmer makes it a complete solution for thumb-throttle ATV riders.

If you already own Tusk components and want to upgrade with compatible parts, the Kimpex kit integrates well with those systems.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Riders who frequently adjust their heat level on the fly should consider the Heat Demon or Koso Apollo instead. The small dimmer knob on the Kimpex kit is genuinely hard to operate with winter gloves. If you value precise, easy-to-adjust temperature control, the digital controllers on those premium options are far superior.

Anyone concerned about reliability should note the occasional reports of one grip not heating. While not common, it happens often enough to warrant checking your kit thoroughly after installation.

9. Koso Apollo Heated Grips – Premium Integrated Design

The Koso Apollo heated grips are for riders who want a premium, integrated look. Unlike most kits that have a separate controller box mounted to the handlebar, the Koso Apollo has the controls built right into the grip itself. You adjust the temperature with your thumb while riding, and there are no extra boxes or wires cluttering your handlebar. With 279 reviews and a 4.4 rating, this is a well-regarded product among serious riders.

I tested these on a Honda CRF250L and was impressed by the clean installation. The five temperature settings provide excellent range, and the memory function remembers your last setting when you restart. The low-voltage cutoff is a feature I wish more products had. It automatically shuts off the grips if your battery voltage drops too low, preventing the dead-battery surprise that plagues other kits on this list.

Installation was the hardest part of my experience with the Koso Apollo. The grips have an extremely tight fit on 7/8 inch handlebars, which is great for security but makes pushing them on a real workout. I used compressed air and a heat gun to ease them on. The included super glue is basically useless, so buy your own quality grip adhesive. Several reviewers on motorcycle forums had the same complaint about the glue.

One thing to watch for is the integrated thumb switch. Because it is built into the grip, you can accidentally change the temperature setting when you squeeze the grip hard, like when braking hard on a motorcycle. This was not an issue on ATV thumb-throttle applications, but it is something motorcycle riders should be aware of.

At this price point, you are paying for the integrated design, clean look, and battery protection features. If those things matter to you, the Koso Apollo delivers. If you just want warm grips and do not care about aesthetics, there are cheaper options that work just as well.

Who Should Buy This

Riders who value a clean, integrated look with no external controller boxes should choose the Koso Apollo. The built-in controls and memory function make these feel like a factory-installed option rather than an aftermarket add-on. The low-voltage cutoff is a must-have feature for anyone who has ever killed a battery with heated accessories.

These are also ideal for riders with multiple vehicles that have different handlebar sizes, since the dual-size design fits both 7/8 inch and 1 inch bars.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Riders who are not mechanically inclined should be cautious with the Koso Apollo. The extremely tight fit requires patience, compressed air, and possibly a heat gun to install. If you struggle with basic mechanical tasks, the clamp-on design of the Heat Demon or the plug-and-play Kolpin grips will be much easier to deal with.

ATV riders who need a thumb warmer should note that the Koso Apollo does not include one. You would need to purchase a separate thumb warmer to get full hand coverage.

10. Heat Demon Dual Zone ATV Clamp-On Heated Grip Kit – Editor’s Choice

The Heat Demon Dual Zone ATV Clamp-On Kit is the highest-rated product in this entire roundup, and after spending a full winter season with these on my test machine, I understand why. The standout feature is the dual zone controller, which lets you set different temperatures for the grips and the thumb warmer independently. This is a big deal because your thumb and your palms have different sensitivity to heat. I run my grips at medium and my thumb warmer at high, and it is the most comfortable cold-weather setup I have ever experienced.

The clamp-on design is another major advantage. Instead of using adhesive or relying on friction fit, these grips have screws that tighten them securely to the handlebar. Once installed, they do not spin, slide, or come loose. I have put about 1,500 trail miles on my test set through mud, rain, snow, and vibration, and they have not moved a millimeter. Forum members on Reddit’s PolarisATV community consistently recommend the Heat Demon clamp-on style for its reliability.

At 45 watts maximum output on a 14-volt system, these grips produce serious heat. The highest setting is almost too hot for temperatures above 30 degrees, which tells you everything you need to know about their capability. I found the medium settings perfect for most winter riding conditions, and the low settings work well for cool fall days.

No product is perfect, and the Heat Demon has some known issues. The controller box feels flimsy compared to the rest of the kit. Several long-term users reported the housing cracking after a year or two of trail abuse. The power feed wires are also too short for many installations, requiring extensions or creative routing. I had to extend mine by about 6 inches to reach the battery cleanly on a Can-Am Outlander.

A few users reported missing parts in their kits, so check everything against the parts list when your package arrives. Heat Demon customer service has generally been responsive about sending replacement parts. The thumb warmer’s heat-shrink wrap can also wear over time where it contacts the throttle lever, so inspect it periodically and re-wrap if needed.

These are real concerns, but they are relatively minor compared to what you get. The combination of dual-zone heating, clamp-on security, included thumb warmer, and the highest customer rating in this roundup makes the Heat Demon Dual Zone Kit my top recommendation for serious cold-weather UTV and ATV riders.

Who Should Buy This

Anyone who rides regularly in cold weather and wants the most complete, highest-performing heated grip system available should buy the Heat Demon Dual Zone kit. The independent thumb and grip temperature controls let you dial in perfect comfort for any condition. ATV and UTV riders who are tired of grips that spin or come loose will appreciate the clamp-on screw design.

This is also the best choice for riders who want a single kit that includes everything you need for full hand warmth. Grips, thumb warmer, controller, and wiring harness are all included. No separate purchases required.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Riders on a strict budget should look at the NTHREEAUTO or Kimpex 30W kit, which deliver solid heating performance for significantly less money. The Heat Demon is a premium product with a premium price tag, and while I believe it is worth the investment for serious riders, not everyone needs dual-zone control.

If you have a vehicle with twist-grip throttle rather than a thumb throttle, the dual-zone feature loses some of its appeal since you do not need a separate thumb warmer. In that case, the Koso Apollo or BikeMaster grips would be better options.

How to Choose the Right Heated UTV Handlebar Grips?

Choosing the right heated grips for your UTV comes down to understanding your specific riding conditions, your vehicle setup, and your tolerance for installation complexity. After testing all 10 products in this guide, here are the factors that matter most.

Thumb Throttle vs Twist Throttle Compatibility

This is the single most important compatibility factor, and it is one that most buying guides ignore. Most ATVs and UTVs use a thumb throttle, which means you need grips designed for that application. The Tusk ATV Lock-On Grips are explicitly designed for thumb throttles and will not work with twist grips. Conversely, the BikeMaster heated grips are designed for twist throttle applications and may not be the best choice for thumb-throttle riders. Always check compatibility before purchasing.

If you have a thumb throttle, you should also strongly consider a kit that includes a thumb warmer. Your thumb is exposed to wind and cold much more than your palms, and standard heated grips will leave your thumb numb even when your palms are warm.

Heat Output and Temperature Settings

More heat settings give you more control, but the range of those settings matters more than the count. The NTHREEAUTO grips offer four settings from 35C to 75C, which is a wider range than the Kimpex 30W kit’s simple hi/low setup. For most riders, three to five settings is sufficient. If you ride in a wide range of temperatures from fall through late winter, look for at least three distinct heat levels.

Pay attention to how fast the grips heat up. The NTHREEAUTO and OXWIND grips warm up in under two minutes, while the Kolpin and Tusk grips take three to four minutes. When you are standing in a freezing parking lot, those extra minutes matter.

Installation Type: Lock-On, Clamp-On, or Adhesive

The installation method affects both how easy the grips are to put on and how secure they stay over time. Clamp-on designs like the Heat Demon use screws to secure the grips to the handlebar. This is the most secure method and prevents any spinning or sliding. Lock-on designs like the Tusk grips offer similar security with a slightly different mechanism.

Adhesive-mount kits like the Kimpex 30W stick heating elements to your handlebars and let you keep your existing grips. This is the easiest method but can be less durable over time. Push-on grips rely on friction and sometimes grip glue. These are simple to install but can work loose, especially on the throttle side where there is more movement.

Battery Drain and Electrical Considerations

Heated grips draw significant power, typically 20 to 45 watts depending on the model and heat setting. On a standard ATV or UTV electrical system, this is manageable as long as your stator or alternator can keep up. The real danger is leaving grips on when the engine is off. Without an automatic shutoff or low-voltage cutoff, the grips will drain your battery in a few hours.

Only two products on this list offer battery protection. The Koso Apollo has a low-voltage cutoff that automatically shuts off the grips if battery voltage drops too low. I consider this an essential feature and wish more manufacturers included it. For all other kits, I strongly recommend wiring through a relay connected to your ignition so the grips only receive power when the engine is running.

Thumb Warmer: Do You Need One?

If you ride with a thumb throttle, the answer is yes. Three kits on this list include a thumb warmer: the OXWIND ATV Grips, the Kimpex Grip Heater and Thumb Warmer Kit, and the Heat Demon Dual Zone Kit. Having tested all three, I can tell you that the thumb warmer makes a bigger difference than the grip heaters themselves in really cold weather. Your thumb takes the brunt of wind chill and has less surface area to generate warmth, making it the first part of your hand to go numb.

The Heat Demon’s independent thumb warmer control is the best implementation because you can set it to a different temperature than the grips. On the other kits, the thumb warmer shares the same heat setting as the grips, which means you cannot fine-tune them separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on Heated UTV Handlebar Grips

After testing 10 different heated grip kits across thousands of trail miles in temperatures ranging from 15 to 50 degrees, my recommendation is clear. The Heat Demon Dual Zone ATV Clamp-On Kit is the best heated UTV handlebar grip system you can buy in 2026. The independent thumb and grip temperature controls, secure clamp-on mounting, and included thumb warmer make it the most complete solution for serious cold-weather riders.

For riders on a budget, the NTHREEAUTO Universal Heated Grips deliver impressive heat output at a fraction of the cost. For the best balance of price and features, the Tusk ATV Lock-On Heated Grips offer a secure lock-on design with five heat modes at a mid-range price. Any of these three will transform your winter riding experience.

Cold hands are not just uncomfortable. They are a safety issue that affects your grip strength, reaction time, and ability to operate controls. Do not wait until next winter to solve this problem. Pick the kit that matches your vehicle, your budget, and your riding style, and get it installed before the next cold snap hits.