You could add some gel padding like this:
http://www.google.com/products/catal...d=0CGUQ8wIwAQ#
under the cork tape to give you extra cushioning. I would suggest getting used to gloves. Aside from the padding, they protect your hands if you ever go down. I've torn up the palms of gloves a couple of times when I've gone down and they definately saved my skin.