Most cork handles have a bit of wood filler in them and the sealer helps keep it intact.  Additionally, the cork seems to stay "new feeling" much longer.

11 minutes ago, J Francho said:

Most cork handles have a bit of wood filler in them and the sealer helps keep it intact.  Additionally, the cork seems to stay "new feeling" much longer.

thanks.  I went in thinking cork was pretty much waterproof.  the filler!  ahh.

Cork is resistant to water, but it isn't water proof.

I seal the cork on all my rods. Doesn’t hurt . 

Easier cleaning, stay nice longer, keep cork from pitting, and yes they look nice as well.

 

3 hours ago, Darth-Baiter said:

you all have seen cork handle failures? or they just because aesthetically unpleasing to the eye.?

The sealant keeps the filler from popping out as easily, which is mainly why I use it.  Even “good” cork is full of filler and I do think that missing filler speeds up the breakdown of the actual cork.