Griffsicher

Griffsicher is a German adjective used in ergonomics and product design to describe the property of an object to be easily and securely grasped, even under adverse conditions such as wet or oily hands. The term combines Griff, grip, with sicher, safe, and is often used to evaluate whether a handle, control, or tool offers reliable manipulation without slipping or requiring excessive force. In practice, griffsicher design considers geometry (contoured shapes, rounded edges, appropriate radii), surface texture (knurling, patterns, or rubber-like coatings), and material choice (compressible or high-friction polymers, elastomers) to create predictable tactile feedback and control. The goal is to reduce the risk of loss of control, improve comfort during prolonged use, and accommodate users wearing gloves or with reduced hand strength.

Applications span hand tools, sports equipment, medical devices, consumer appliances, and industrial controls. Griffsicher features may include knurled or textured surfaces, softly rounded finger rests, and elements that resist slip when the object is wet, oily, or sweaty. Designers often balance grip security with manufacturability, durability, and cost, and may test grip performance through qualitative user trials and quantitative measurements of friction, peak grip force, and slip resistance.

There is no universal standard definition, but griffsicher design is widely discussed in ergonomics guidance and safety considerations in product development. See also ergonomics, anti-slip design, and handtool safety.