Suvechha Sarkar
Chasing peak performance is not just for elite athletes anymore but rather a universal goal for anyone who is striving to push limits, whether it be on the field, on stage, or in the gym. While traditional chalk has long been the go-to solution for improving grip, it often falls short in terms of longevity. This is where Chalkless set itself apart. It delivers a game-changing grip enhancement and is designed to repel moisture. It even absorbs grease and oil as a longer-lasting, more effective alternative. Their appearance on season 16, episode 5 of ABC’s ‘Shark Tank’ gave the founders a chance to showcase that it is setting the stage for performance innovation. Interestingly, a couple of the sharks agreed with their vision, and the team secured a deal, thus embarking on a journey to fulfill their goals with the product.
Chalkless: Who Are They and What Do They Do?
Before Chalkless came into existence, its co-founders, Greg Pope and James Pidhurney, were creating a unique path for themselves. The former began his journey back in April 1980, when he founded his consultancy firm, Righter Group. He has served as the CEO there ever since. In June 2017, he co-founded Entry Point International, which is dedicated to discovering breakthrough materials and technologies for the construction market. James started his academic path by earning a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Maine in 2000. Following this, he enrolled in Babson F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business to pursue an MBA in 2006 and earned the degree in 2008. However, James stepped into his career in 1998 when he took his first job as a Co-op at Champion International Paper and worked there for a year.
In 2000, James became a Process Engineer at Teradyne Connection Systems, where he remained until 2003. Two years later, James took on the role of a Customer Focus Engineer at Cabot Inkjet Colorants. He moved on in 2008 before joining as a Global Business Development Manager at Cabot Corporation in January 2009. He served there until June 2018 for nearly a decade. James then co-founded Entry Point International alongside Greg. They developed Proplex, a plywood replacement, and even “absurd” and “ridiculous” tape. Around COVID-19, the idea of Chalkless took form during a friendly tennis match. Greg had become frustrated due to his slippery grip and sweaty hands. He wondered if the same coating used to protect rockets and submarines from heat and moisture could be applied to human skin.
When Greg introduced the thought before James, it was advantageous due to the latter’s background in Chemical Engineering. The duo began researching and, surprisingly, discovered that the poor grip was not primarily caused by sweat. Instead, it happened due to the oil secretion from skin glands. They relentlessly experimented with different materials and formations in James’ basement. Ultimately, the brand was born in January 2023 after two years of testing. Greg formally became the co-founder alongside James, who is also the Executive Vice President of the brand. A big break came when they succeeded in bagging a deal on ‘Shark Tank’ in November 2024. James and Greg secured an agreement of $400K from Kevin O’Leary and Rashaun Williams for 4% equity. The offer is added with a $2.50 royalty per unit until $4 million is repaid. The royalty will drop to $0.25 per unit in perpetuity following this.
Chalkless’ main product, the Grip Enhancer, is now patented. The product targets the root cause of grip loss, which is none other than oil and moisture. The product’s material is hydrophobic and oleophilic, effectively absorbing oil instantly. The product is also effective in repulsing both sweat and water. This property ensures a reliable and consistent grip. In order to use the product, consumers can shake a half teaspoon onto one palm and apply it between the fingers and up to the wrist by rubbing the hands together. Users can easily wash their hands with soap and water to remove the product. Although individuals may temporarily feel a grippy sensation due to a lack of oil in their palms, which often disappears as the body replenishes the oil.
Chalkless: Where Are They Now?
Since its launch in January 2023, Chalkless has steadily gained popularity across the sports and performance world. Currently, the brand offers six main products, which can be bought through their official website and Amazon store. Their Dispenser Bundle includes one high-capacity dispenser and two bulk refill packs priced at just $459.99. While the Dispenser Stand is available for $100, the Grip Enhancer Bottle, which is perfect for daily use and gives about 50 applications, is available at $19.99. The Chalkless Grip Enhancer Dispenser is priced at $389.99, and the Grip Enhancer Bulk bag is available at just $84.99.Besides this, the Single-Serve Grip Enhancer, which comes in a box of 50, is available for $148.99. Users can order by choosing their desired product, selecting the quantity, and completing the purchase online.
Chalkless has continued to escalate its momentum by reaching out to a vast arena of the sports sector. In December 2024, their brand sales representative attended the Armlifting USA Clinic at Legacy Barbell in Tampa, marking a notable entry into the strength community. The brand has collaborated with personal trainers and health coaches, including Alex Vazquez, Alex Mascarenas, Zac Ansaldo, and many more. In January 2025, Chalkless proudly announced on Instagram that their product had made its way into the world of formula racing. That same month, they partnered with the American Patriot Defense and Gunset Training Group, LLC, showcasing the product’s effectiveness in tactical training environments. Additionally, they partnered with the renowned athlete Kira Wrixon, further expanding their reach.
One of Chalkless’ most notable achievements came when they secured a $575,000 year-long contract with Major League Baseball to treat balls with the Grip Enhancer before use. The product was also reviewed by the SGA and approved for use in golf at all levels of play. This further cements its regulatory compliance. Moreover, they have appeared on the PGA Show 2024 and 2025, engaging directly with the golf community. This reaffirms the brand’s growing presence in the sport. In February 2025, they collaborated with the Fore Athletes community, boosting awareness among golf players. Chalkless dispensers are installed in multiple celebrity training facilities, including CrossFit gyms and top-tier university athletic centers like USC and FSU. Prominent NFL, college, and NBA athletes also use Chalkless.
However, Chalkless has not stopped broadening its reach. At the SBD event in March 2025, the renowned athlete Julius Maddox used the product during his record-breaking lift, drawing significant attention. The brand featured its booth at the HFA Show in the same month. In May, Chalkless had a launch party to celebrate the rebranding of NH Golf, along with several other brands. During the event, there were several activities like lawn games, the mobile golf simulator, product samples, etc. That same month, it was also featured by Cricket Zone USA, signaling its expansion into another sports field. Most recently, the product has gained attention for its use by the renowned athlete Michael Pavlovich Androsov, who shared his positive experience publicly. Above everything, Chalkless continues to receive impressive reviews, consistently praising its effectiveness and how it revolutionizes grip in the most demanding conditions.
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