Get the Most Protection from your Lacrosse Arm Guards

Get the Most Protection from your Lacrosse Arm Guards

Choose Padded Lacrosse Arm Guards for Optimal Protection

When selecting lacrosse arm guards, one of the most important factors to consider is the level of padding and protection. Lacrosse is a high-speed contact sport, so having properly padded arm guards is crucial for preventing injuries to the arms and elbows from checks, slashes, and falls. The ideal lacrosse arm pad will have thick, durable padding over the entire arm, including multi-layer foam or molded plastic over the elbow and wrist areas. This padding absorbs the impact from hits and checks during play. While some minimalist arm guards offer less bulky designs and breathability, they sacrifice critical protection. For players who take a lot of tough checks, like defensemen, more substantial padding is recommended.

When trying on different lacrosse arm pad options, focus on finding guards with thick padding over the forearm, wrist, and elbow areas. Press into the padding with your fingers to test the thickness and resilience of the foam or plastic materials used. Multi-layer padding arrangements often provide better shock absorption. Make sure there are no thin or unpadded spots that could leave you vulnerable. Having full wrap-around padding coverage ensures protection from all sides of the arm. High-density foam or molded plastic elbow caps are ideal for dispersing energy on elbow hits. Look for lacrosse arm guards with at least a 1/2 inch padding thickness over critical areas. Choosing the right level of protection for your position and style of play will help keep you performing safely on the field.

Look for Compression Sleeves and Moisture Wicking Fabric

When researching different lacrosse arm pad options, an important feature to look for is integrated compression sleeves and moisture wicking fabric linings. The benefit of compression sleeves built into lacrosse arm guards is that they help keep the pads securely in place during intense play. Sleeves wrap snugly around the arm, preventing the pads from shifting and exposing unprotected areas. Tight fitting sleeves also provide muscular support and stabilize the arm when cradling, throwing, or checking. Selecting lacrosse arm guards with an inner sleeve allows you to forgo wearing an extra compression layer underneath. This results in less bulk and greater comfort.

Moisture wicking fabric linings are also an essential aspect of lacrosse arm pad design. The intense physical nature of lacrosse leads to profuse sweating during play. If moisture gets trapped against the skin under pads, it causes chafing and discomfort. Advanced lacrosse arm guards utilize technical moisture wicking fabric made from polyester or spandex blends. These fabrics actively pull sweat away from the skin and towards the surface of the pad where it can evaporate. This keeps players cool, dry and focused on the game rather than being distracted by wet, chafe-ridden arms. Breathable pads also help prevent buildup of odor causing bacteria.

When trying on lacrosse arm guards, evaluate the feel of the inner sleeve lining. Make sure it fits snugly without restricting your range of motion. Bend your elbow fully to ensure no binding or gaps open up. Run your hand along the inner lining to check for soft, smooth moisture wicking fabrics rather than cotton blends which can chafe when wet. Testing out the compression sleeves and moisture wicking capabilities in person allows you to find the best lacrosse arm pads tailored for lasting comfort and prevention of skin irritation during intense games or practices.

Opt for Adjustable and Flexible Lacrosse Arm Pads

When shopping for lacrosse arm pads, seeking out adjustable and flexible models is key for getting a personalized fit. Since arm lengths and muscles vary significantly between players, lacrosse arm guards that offer custom sizing and flex points provide better protection and mobility.

Lacrosse arm pads with multiple adjustable straps allow you to tweak the tightness and positioning for your specific arms. Straps across the forearm, bicep and shoulder area should include Velcro or elastic elements you can tighten or loosen as needed until the pads are securely in place. Pads with adjustable wrist cuffs are also beneficial for getting a snug fit around the wrist bones to prevent gaps. Choose adjustable arm guards that allow you to create an optimal wrap-around fit for your physique.

Opting for lacrosse arm pads engineered with flex points or articulated joints enhances mobility when cradling, throwing, checking and scooping. Unhinged rigid pads can make it challenging and uncomfortable to fully bend and extend your elbow. Lacrosse arm guards constructed from layered foam or with padded hinge style elbow caps offer greater flexibility. This allows you to move freely on the field without your pads hampering your athleticism and stick skills. Test out the elbow, wrist and shoulder flexibility of various lacrosse arm guards first hand during sizing. Make sure to bend fully at each joint while wearing the pads to ensure no mobility restrictions.

Getting lacrosse arm pads with adjustable and flexible features allows you to customize the pads for your build and arm movements. Taking the time to dial in the right fit and mobility will help you protect your arms properly so you can play your very best on game days.

Evaluate Protection Levels to Match Your Play Style

When selecting your lacrosse arm pads, one of the key considerations is choosing protection levels that match your position and style of aggressive play. Not all players need the same degree of padding – attackmen and midfielders tend to prefer lighter protection for speed, while defensemen require maximum padding to absorb big hits.

For speed oriented midfielders and attackmen who play a finesse game, opting for light or moderate lacrosse arm pads is often the best choice. Minimal arm pads with slim padding allow you to move your stick quickly during dodges, maintain ball control during cradling, and feel comfortable wearing your pads for extended periods. If you avoid a lot of physical contact, then bulky, heavy pads are unnecessary.

In contrast, defensemen and some midfielders who play a more physical game are better off selecting lacrosse arm guards with maximum protection. When you anticipate repeatedly absorbing checks, slashes, and elbow strikes from attacking players, the extra bulkiness of thick foam or molded plastic pads is justified. The goal is to protect vulnerable bones and joints from injury when battles in front of the net or in the corners get intense.

Before deciding on lacrosse arm pads protection levels, realistically consider your team position and style of aggressive play. Don’t sacrifice protection just to gain a bit more speed and agility if you frequently take tough hits. Reviewing your past season’s injuries can also help guide the right pad choice to prevent re-aggravating unprotected areas in the future.

Check ARM Pad Quality, Durability and Craftsmanship

When evaluating different lacrosse arm guards, take time to thoroughly inspect the quality, durability, and craftsmanship of the construction and materials used. Having arm pads that can withstand the rigors of competition without falling apart prematurely is imperative for safety and performance.

Examine the outer shell of potential lacrosse arm pads closely for sturdy double stitched seams, reinforced binding at the edges, and durable fabrics like puncture resistant vinyls. Check that pieces of protective foam or plastic are firmly secured in place without gaps or weak points in the lining attachments. Pads with loose or cheaply glued on padding can shift during play, creating unsafe voids.

Focus extra attention checking the arm guard’s elbow caps. This part endures tremendous impact, so the elbow pad material matters. High-density molded plastic elbow caps offer the most robust protection. Other acceptable sturdy materials include compression molded foam combined with polyethylene plates or carbon fiber shield inserts. Avoid elbow caps with thin padding or all foam construction which compresses too easily.

Look for lacrosse arm pads from established sporting goods brands known for stringent quality controls and product testing. Reputable brands invest in innovation and durability so their pads provide seasons of protection. Before purchasing, read reviews from verified buyers and users to learn how well particular lacrosse arm guard models hold up under real game conditions. Taking time to evaluate arm pad construction allows you to confidently choose protection built to take the punishment of your hard-charging lacrosse matches.

Check ARM Pad Sizing Charts for a Proper Fit

Finding well-fitting lacrosse arm pads is crucial for getting comprehensive protection during play. When shopping for lacrosse arm guards, be sure to consult the sizing charts provided by manufacturers and retailers. Arm pad sizing is based on your bicep circumference, arm length, and wrist size to ensure a snug, tailored fit.

Most lacrosse arm pad brands offer pads in small, medium, large and extra large sizing. Measure the circumference of your bicep muscle’s widest point and compare it to the sizing chart to pick your range. Then measure from the center of your upper bicep down to your wrist bone to determine your ideal arm guard length. Finally, measure your wrist where a watch face would sit to establish your wrist guard sizing.

When possible, try on lacrosse arm pads in person while wearing your normal undershirt to verify comfort and range of motion. The pads should fit snugly around your biceps and forearms without pinching or cutting off circulation. Bend your elbows fully to confirm the pads don’t restrict mobility. If ordering pads online, carefully follow measuring instructions and size charts provided.

Reading lacrosse equipment forums can provide sizing guidance from players who have tested the pads firsthand. Some brands are known to run small or large. If sizing between your bicep and wrist measurements differ significantly, choose the size matching your larger measurement for the best fit. Taking the time to get properly fitted lacrosse arm guards ensures you get comprehensive protection tailored specifically for your body.

Consider Contrasting Colors for Better Visibility

When selecting your lacrosse arm pads, opting for colors that stand out on the field can provide better visibility of your arm positioning for teammates and officials. Most lacrosse arm pads come in standard team colors like black, white, navy and red. Choosing guards with contrasting color accents helps them pop.

For example, picking black lacrosse arm pads with yellow or orange elbow caps creates visual definition of your arm movements on the field. Brightly colored pads also make it easier for referees to see if a checked arm makes contact. Some brands offer guards with color blocking designs that incorporate accent colors across different pad zones.

Using arm pads in a secondary color that contrasts your main uniform shade distinguishes your arms during play. A goalie could select green lacrosse arm guards to stand out against black jerseys and shorts. For indoor box lacrosse played on colorful turf fields, white lacrosse pads offer high visibility. Pairing your arm pad colors to strongly contrast your gloves is another clever way to make your exact arm and hand positioning clearer.

Before finalizing your lacrosse arm pad color choice, check with your coach in case the team requires pads matching specific colors or shorts. Beyond team rules, considering high visibility contrasting colors can help your pads effectively serve their protective purpose.

Get the Proper Coverage Based on Player Position

When selecting lacrosse arm pads, the amount of arm coverage required differs based on your player position on the field. Attackmen and midfielders often prefer less bulky pads that maximize mobility, while defensemen need extended protection for their vulnerable arms in the trenches.

For attackmen, choosing lacrosse arm pads with a short sleeve design that wraps from above the elbow to a few inches below the elbow joint allows freedom of movement to whip your stick. Pads that extend far down the forearm can hamper cradling and shooting. A lightweight elbow cap with molded plastic or high density foam provides impact protection when taking checks.

Midfielders benefit from lacrosse arm guards offering a bit more coverage past the elbow to shield the forearm from stray checks and slashes during transition play. Lacrosse arm pads with 5 to 7 inch foam extensions below the elbow pad are ideal.

Defensemen are best served by lacrosse arm guards with maximum wraparound protection from above the elbow all the way down to the wrist. When constantly engaging attacking players, the extra forearm and wrist padding insulates against hacks and absorbs contact. Multi-layer foam provides better cushioning for point blank shots.

Considering your position’s unique protection needs will guide you in determining the appropriate lacrosse arm pad length and padding bulk for optimal performance and injury prevention.