What if anything can be used on cork handles to make them pliable or normal feeling?
I do dislike cork very much but had to get a few because I was in need.

Coat them in olive oil after fishing. Do this repeatedly and it will help.

Winn Grips.
[img]http://www.winngripsfishing.com/products/grips/overwrap/[/img]

I second using some form of wrap grip...definitely helps

Interesting, I hate all handles except for cork.

X2

X3

If you don't want cork but are forced to get it, use wet or hand wipes to clean them and remove any smudges and dirt/oils. Then, they sell cork sealer at TW and other places. Cheap.

After they are dry from cleaning, use on of those tiny foam paint brushes to apply a very light coating, then let it dry. Too much will just build up; you need just enough sealer so that it soaks in well, leaves nothing on the surface.

Once a year, even less, is fine. It'll take that dark smudge (dirt and oil) off cork handles, make them last a lot longer.

Brad

A wrap is best and easiest.

+100

In a pinch you can wrap some rubber bands around the cork.

Another vote for cork here.

I wash all of my cork handles with hot water and dawn dish washing soap. Use an old tooth brush to scrub and rinse well. They will clean up like new.

Most "washable" handle is IMO Okuma's "1k woven carbon fiber" I have on one of their rods. Works good for me, but it is not better than cork.
One kind of "exception" is rather heavy salt water boat rods: sometimes cork tape is better than a standard cork.
But it is never EVA!

tennis racket handle wrap..I've used that.

Try Magic Eraser with dish soap/H2O. Much easier than tooth brush, great results.

Not sure if it makes cork grip feel any different, but they sure come out looking nice.