I feel like those funny handles have overshadowed the fact that these are really nice rods. I might get the 8wt with a cork handle.

 

I know fly fisherman generally have a staid reputation when it comes to tradition and all, but considering the crap cork on a lot of rods (even spendy ones) I wouldn't let the non-traditional materials put me off. The black is certainly less bold than the red so maybe that will help.

 

I like the rubber cork on some of the Loop rods. It gives the rod a different feeling, more sensitive than cork, and extremely durable (I stick flies in mine since they came without hook keepers). I wonder if the Redington grip is that tough.

 

It's probably just the old age talking, but the red in those grips seem a little 'look at me' and out of place.
Maybe with a matching Nano puff ?

Seriously, the black looks better and I don't mind the idea of a synthetic grip for saltwater fishing if it's tough.
I also think Redingtons saltwater rods punch well above their price point on the water.

 

If it feels good in the hand why not? Agree the red is a bit much for me though.

 

Red or Black, the Vapen's performance is better than any other rod in this price range and performance category. I like the synthetic grip better than the majority of cork I've ever used.

http://www.gearinstitute.com/fishing/item/redington-vapen-red?category_id=1038

 

I have these for nymphing rods in the boat and got a chance to fish it for bonefish,tarpon etc...in MX last year.
Great --Great Rods.
Don't let the grip put you off. It is absolutely a great salt rod and for the value, they are amazing.
Redington stuff is no longer a "value" only brand. far Bank has provided a much needed trickle down from the Sage line into the Redington stuff.

 

As evidence from another thread, the best cork is going to the fashion world to make high-priced women's shoes and handbags so it stands to reason that rod companies must come up with something else to use for handles.

There's probably some really cool feeling synthetics out there that would work perfectly well for fly rod handles. I owe no allegiance to cork fly rod handles. They've done nothing for me. I will not stand in the way of their demise in favor of some really, really nice feeling handles.

 

As evidence from another thread, the best cork is going to the fashion world to make high-priced women's shoes and handbags so it stands to reason that rod companies must come up with something else to use for handles.

There's probably some really cool feeling synthetics out there that would work perfectly well for fly rod handles. I owe no allegiance to cork fly rod handles. They've done nothing for me. I will not stand in the way of their demise in favor of some really, really nice feeling handles.

I can't tell if those grips cover real cork or synthetic cork ?