Why do chess players have such limp handshakes?

You sit opposite the opponent and out comes a clammy little hand, hanging limply from the wrist, it does not even attempt to shake your own hand, it just hangs there cold and lifeless in midair. As soon as your hand touches it, it recoils in fear and submission. 

A nauseating experience that makes you want to go to the bathroom and wash off the sweat, slime, and nostril debris that may have been transferred in the archaic ritual.

 Is it time to do away with this revolting custom 

Usually it's just the kids who do the ol' limp fish.

Or they recoil quickly so you end up shaking their fingers instead of their hand haha.

Are you sure its someone's hand you have been shaking.

I think they're just shy / inexperienced. If they're kids they've probably never shook hands before, so it's awkward for them.

Probably sweating with fear

It would be sad if not

If your handshake lasts longer than 4 hours consult a mortician.

i find handshakes unhygienic. i usually prefer bows over handshakes  (although i play along with chess handshakes because the alternative is to make it an even bigger deal)

the firmness of handshakes is such a silly concept.

Limp handshake confirmed lol

wear gloves when shaking

Firm handshakes are good, I like giving firm handshakes. I think limp handshakes are ridiculous. When two ladies or two gentlemen play a chess game, a firm handshake shows big respect between players before the game starts. Footballers give firm handshakes between players before the match, snooker players give firm handshakes before the matches...chess seems to be one of the few games where a lot of players give silly, limp, floppy handshakes...it's annoying! At least here in England where I am, most players give firm handshakes before the matches.

Firm handshakes are great