1. White Oak: Known for its strength and resilience, White Oak is a popular choice for wooden handrails. Its natural grain patterns add a timeless and sophisticated appeal, making it suitable for both classic and modern designs. White Oak handrails require minimal maintenance, usually limited to occasional cleaning.
2. Hard Maple: Hard Maple wood features a fine, consistent grain and a smooth finish, making it ideal for handrails with a sleek, modern look. While not as hard as White Oak, Hard Maple is still robust and dependable. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, typically involving periodic cleaning.
3. American Cherry: For a warm and characterful handrail, American Cherry wood is an excellent option. It offers rich reddish-brown tones that darken over time, enhancing its charm. Although American Cherry is less dense than White Oak or Hard Maple, it is considered durable.
4. Mahogany: The name "mahogany" is synonymous with opulence and refinement. Its rich reddish-brown color and distinctive grain patterns make it a superb choice for creating an elegant entryway or refined interior. Mahogany is a sturdy wood, capable of withstanding the elements and termite threats.
5. Walnut: Walnut is prized for its dark, rich color and striking grain patterns, evoking a sense of luxury. It is often chosen for handrails in upscale settings. While not as hard as some other woods, walnut is still durable enough for handrail use.
6. Monterey Pine: Pine is a cost-effective choice, suitable for those looking for an economical wood handrail solution. It has a lighter color and less pronounced grain, which can provide a modest and understated look. However, Monterey Pine is less dense than hardwoods, making it more susceptible to impacts and surface marks.

Resource:https://stairwarehousereviewsblog.wordpress.com/2023/10/26/selecting-the-right-wood-species-for-your-handrail-is-a-crucial-decision-that-affects-not-only-the-aesthetics-but-also-the-durability-and-maintenance-requirements-here-are-some-options-to-consider/