Importance of protecting your arms/elbows when playing lacrosse
Lacrosse is a fast-paced, high-impact sport that can take a major toll on your arms and elbows. Arm guards and elbow pads are crucial pieces of protective gear that can help prevent painful injuries during play. Without proper arm protection, you risk bruising, fractures, dislocations, and other trauma to your limbs that could sideline you for weeks or longer.
Stick checks, body checks, errant shots, and hard falls are common occurrences in lacrosse that can do serious damage to unprotected arms. Padding on arm guards absorbs the shock and impact of these blows to keep your bones, joints, muscles, and tendons safe. Quality arm pads with molded plastic caps also defend against direct stick-to-arm contact.
In addition to preventing injuries, wearing snug-fitting arm guards gives you the confidence to play aggressively without fear of harm. The freedom to check, cradle, pass, and shoot as hard as you want improves performance. Arm pads allow you to dive after ground balls and battle in the corners without hesitation.
For goalies, arm protection is non-negotiable. The constant barrage of high-velocity shots aimed at the net necessitates maximum coverage from wrist to shoulder. Soft padding across the entire arm mitigates stingers and welts, while plastic overlays shield against point-blank ricochets.
Under Armour is one of the top brands trusted by lacrosse players at all levels for durable and protective gear. When shopping for new Under Armour lacrosse arm guards, keep the following factors in mind.
Ventilation and breathability
Lacrosse is an intensive sport, so your equipment needs to breathe. Under Armour lacrosse arm pads use lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics and strategic venting to allow airflow. This keeps you cool, dry, and comfortable even during intense activity. Look for pads with mesh ventilation zones under the arms, along the forearms, and around the biceps.
Adjustability
A personalized fit is crucial for flexibility and mobility. Under Armour lacrosse elbow pads feature adjustable straps across the forearm and bicep with hook-and-loop closures. This customizes the compression for a snug, secure fit. Some models also have removable pads to modify protection levels.
Protection
Robust padding in the elbow, forearm, and bicep safeguards against checks and shots. Under Armour lacrosse arm guards use layered foam and perforated EVA foam for lightweight impact absorption. Vents and mesh promote breathability. Hard plastic caps on the elbow and forearm reinforce defense against slashes.
Comfort
Under Armour designs arm pads with a pre-curved anatomical shape for unmatched comfort. The flexible pads move naturally with your arms for unrestricted mobility when cradling, passing, and shooting. Smooth interior linings prevent chafing and irritation during play. Lightweight construction eliminates bulky restrictions.
Durability
Under Armour lacrosse gear is built tough to withstand rugged play. Tough exterior fabrics resist tearing, abrasions, and damage from regular use. Reinforced stitching around stress points enhances structural integrity. Washable materials allow you to clean off dirt, grass stains, and sweat after each game.
Price
Under Armour offers lacrosse arm pads at various price points to suit different budgets. More protective pro-level models cost over $100 but feature the latest technology and premium materials. Affordable pads under $50 provide sufficient coverage for beginners and casual players.
Finding the right balance between comfort, protection, and value requires trying on different options. Consult Under Armour sizing charts and read product reviews before deciding. Consider getting professionally fitted at a sporting goods store as well.
Comparisons of Under Armour vs other lacrosse arm guard brands
Under Armour dominates the lacrosse gear market along with other major brands like Maverik, STX, and Warrior. While Under Armour is known for innovative technology and quality construction, it helps to compare different manufacturers.
For example, Maverik emphasizes a streamlined “anatomical fit” with tapered padding zones mimicking natural arm contours. STX focuses on premium materials like perforated Flex foam with “targeted impact protection” in key contact areas. Warrior highlights a “hit and shield” design ethos separating padding and plastic.
Under Armour lacrosse arm guards integrate the latest in fabric tech like HeatGear moisture-wicking material. Segmented padding allows flex without compromising protection. Adjustable straps ensure a dialed-in fit and full range of motion.
Ultimately the best brand comes down to preferences in budget, fit, and playing style. Try on pads from different makers to ascertain what works best for your needs and comfort.
Experiences and recommendations from other players
Looking to other lacrosse players for advice and product reviews can provide valuable insight into the ideal arm guards for you. Experienced athletes who have tested different pads understand the key factors that separate quality protection from inadequate gear.
Fellow players can recommend top arm guard models for your position that offer sufficient padding without sacrificing mobility. Goalies, defensemen, midfielders, and attackmen each have specific needs that determine ideal fit and coverage.
Teammates can also advise on durability and longevity from their own equipment. Used properly and cared for, quality Under Armour lacrosse arm pads can last seasons before needing replacement. Reviews from players help set realistic expectations.
Don’t underestimate the importance of comfort endorsed by others. Bulkiness, slippage, and poor ventilation are common complaints if lacrosse arm guards aren’t properly sized. Player feedback provides insight to find the best Under Armour pads for your sport.
Leverage opinions from more experienced lacrosse athletes to determine which Under Armour arm guard options offer the ideal blend of protection, comfort, and value. Their unbiased input speeds the process of finding the right pads.
Key features to look for in Under Armour lacrosse arm pads
When evaluating Under Armour lacrosse arm guards, keep an eye out for these essential features that contribute to protection, comfort, and performance:
Padding thickness
The thicker the padding, the more shock absorption provided. Under Armour uses layered foam and reinforced EVA foam to cushion against checks. Look for ample padding coverage around the entire elbow joint and forearm.
Adjustable straps
Customizable straps allow you to tweak the compression and snugness of the arm guard fit. Under Armour incorporates bicep and forearm straps with hook-and-loop patches for a secure, tailored feel.
Ventilation zones
Mesh panels and perforations allow air to flow through Under Armour lacrosse arm pads. This ventilation circulates air and wicks sweat to prevent overheating. Targeted zones under the arms, at joints, and along the forearm maximize breathability.
Anatomical shape
Pre-curved arm guards mirror the natural shape of your arm for unrestricted mobility. Under Armour designs pads to move seamlessly with your limbs for easy cradling, passing, and checking.
Moisture-wicking liner
Smooth, lightweight lining material quickly absorbs and evaporates sweat during intense play. Under Armour lacrosse arm pads incorporate moisture-wicking fabrics like HeatGear to keep you cool and dry.
Plastic caps
Hard plastic or TPU caps reinforce padding along the elbow and forearm. This added shield defends against checks and slashes for enhanced protection.
Lightweight feel
Minimal bulk allows you to move freely and unencumbered. Under Armour lacrosse arm pads utilize lightweight foam, fabrics, and perforations to prevent restrictive heaviness.
Elbow mobility
An unhindered elbow joint is crucial for passing and shooting. Under Armour lacrosse elbow pads use articulated designs and flexible materials that don’t limit your mobility.
Forearm shield
Extra padding and plastic reinforcement along the forearm and wrist safeguard against checks, slashes, and errant shots. Under Armour arm guards provide robust coverage beyond just the elbow.
Prioritizing these useful features when shopping for new Under Armour lacrosse arm pads will help you find the ideal pair to protect and enhance your game.
Reviews of top Under Armour lacrosse elbow pad models
Under Armour Command Elbow Pads
The Command elbow pads provide lightweight, low-profile protection perfect for quick handlers and offensive middies. Strategic padding zones absorb checks without restricting mobility. The compression sleeve fit stays put without sliding. Perforated flex foam boosts breathability during intense play.
Under Armour Hammer Elbow Pads
Built for aggressive defensemen, the Hammer pads offer maximum coverage to fend off slashes and stonewall dodgers. The adjustable straps and extended padding safeguard your arms when battling for ground balls. Dual-density foam allows flexible movement when running down attackers.
Under Armour Renegade Elbow Pads
Featuring a streamlined design ideal for speedy attackmen, the Renegade pads prioritize freedom of movement when driving to the cage. Strategic padding zones target protection without limiting your quickness. Lightweight yet tough materials stand up to rugged play.
Under Armour Crush Elbow Pads
The Crush pads are feature-packed with high levels of protection and ventilation. Generous padding shields your elbows and forearms during checks. Perforated breathing zones keep you cool when the game heats up. The moisture-wicking liner battles sweat.
Under Armour ISO-Z Elbow Pads
ISO-Z pads isolate impact zones with padding modules that move independently for unhindered mobility. The adjustable compression sleeve locks in a stable fit. Reinforced caps guard your elbows against slashes when dodging through traffic.
These Under Armour lacrosse elbow pads represent the brand’s latest tech and materials for optimized protection. Browse all models to find the ideal pair matching your position, style of play, and preference for mobility versus padding.
Comparisons of Under Armour vs other lacrosse arm guard brands
In the competitive market of lacrosse protective gear, Under Armour stands out as an innovative leader. But how do their arm guards stack up against other top brands like Maverik, STX, and Warrior?
When it comes to materials, Under Armour leverages proprietary fabrics like HeatGear for moisture wicking performance. Brands like Maverik and Warrior also incorporate technical fabrics that fight sweat and keep players cooler.
For padding, Under Armour relies on layered foam constructions and strategic venting to absorb impacts while maintaining breathability. STX utilizes perforated Flex foam in key zones for targeted protection that doesn’t overheat.
In terms of adjustability, Under Armour sets itself apart with equipped strap systems that customize the compression fit across the forearm and bicep area. This dialed-in snugness prevents slippage.
For coverage, Under Armour extends padding and caps down the forearm for more comprehensive protection during checks. Brands like Warrior focus protection on just the elbow joint.
When it comes to mobility, Under Armour designs anatomical pre-curved pad shapes that move seamlessly with natural arm motion for unrestricted cradling and passing. Maverik also engineers a streamlined tapered “fitting logic.”
For durability, Under Armour builds pads to withstand rugged play with reinforced stitching, durable exteriors, and abrasion resistance. All major brands test gear rigorously for toughness.
Across key metrics – materials, padding, adjustability, coverage, mobility, durability – Under Armour stacks up well against competing lacrosse arm guard brands. Try on different models to find your ideal fit and protection.
Differences between Under Armour lacrosse arm guards and elbow pads
Under Armour provides a full range of lacrosse arm protection including arm guards (covering the entire arm from wrist to shoulder) and elbow pads (focused on just the elbow joint). While their purpose is similar, some key differences exist.
Arm guards offer wraparound coverage and more padding overall. Thicker foam layers cushion the entire forearm and bicep region in addition to the elbow. This provides more comprehensive defense against checks.
Elbow pads concentrate protection on the vulnerable joint itself. Padding is thinner since it doesn’t extend far beyond the elbow area. The streamlined design prioritizes mobility.
Arm guards have longer straps wrapping all the way around the forearm and bicep for stability. Elbow pads feature shorter straps focused just above and below the joint.
Venting and breathability varies. Arm guards need more mesh zones and perforations across the larger surface area. Elbow pads require less since they cover less skin.
In terms of weight, elbow pads are more lightweight and low profile. Bulkier arm guards can feel more restrictive during play though they offer more padding.
Arm guards run warmer since they seal off more skin. Elbow pads allow greater airflow and dissipate heat better through reduced coverage.
Price differs as well, with full arm guards costing more than basic elbow pads. More materials, padding, and features drive up costs.
For comprehensive protection during intense lacrosse play, full arm guards are ideal. For optimized mobility and streamlined coverage, elbow pads suffice.
Understanding sizing charts for a proper fit
Finding the right size Under Armour lacrosse arm guards ensures maximum comfort, protection, and mobility during play. Consult Under Armour’s detailed sizing charts to determine your ideal fit based on key measurements.
For arm guard sizing, the most important dimension is forearm length from wrist to elbow. Wrap a soft measuring tape around the center of your forearm to get this number. Compare to the size chart and choose the range that matches your measurement.
Also measure your bicep circumference by wrapping the tape measure around the fullest part of your upper arm. Arm guards need to compress snugly here without constricting.
For elbow pads, the main sizing metric is the circumference of your arm right above and below the elbow joint. Wrap the tape at the top and bottom of the elbow bone to get these numbers.
The ideal lacrosse arm guard offers a tight but comfortable fit that hugs close to your arm without restricting blood flow. Straps should fully fasten without stretching to the max.
Aim for a second skin feel that doesn’t pinch or bind. Pads shouldn’t dig into your muscles when cradling or move around when checking. Use sizing charts as a starting point then try on different sizes.
Consider watching YouTube videos that demonstrate proper measuring techniques. You can also get sized in person at lacrosse specialty stores for a professional recommendation.
An accurately fitted Under Armour lacrosse arm guard gives you the protection and mobility you need to take your game to the next level.
Ventilation and breathability factors of Under Armour arm pads
Proper airflow and ventilation keep you cool and dry during intense lacrosse games and practices. Under Armour designs lacrosse arm pads to breath using strategically placed mesh and perforations.
Lightweight moisture-wicking fabrics like Under Armour’s HeatGear line draw sweat off the skin to evaporate quickly. This prevents overheating and soak through.
Mesh panels under the arms, along the bicep, and down the forearm allow air exchange. Generous mesh coverage circulates air across broad surface areas.
Laser cut perforations and holes punctuate padding layers to facilitate breathability. Foam ventilation prevents stuffiness and discomfort.
Venting zones target key heat release points around brachial and radial arteries. Releasing warmth here provides whole-body cooling relief.
Under Armour’s high-performance UA ISO-Chill fabric utilizes an ice-like yarn weave to maintain a cooler microclimate inside pads during play.
Stretchy compression material contributes to ventilation and airflow as you move. The fabric itself breathes as it expands and contracts.
Reduced pad coverage also boosts airflow, which is why some players opt for minimalist elbow pads over full arm guards.
Well-vented Under Armour lacrosse arm pads keep you energized and focused, giving your best performance consistently without distraction.
Adjustability options for maximum mobility and flexibility
Properly adjustable lacrosse arm pads from Under Armour allow you to customize the fit for full, unrestricted motion during play. Various strap configurations dial in the ideal compression.
Forearm straps use Velcro or hook-and-loop patches to tweak pad tightness right where you need it. Cinching these stabilizes pads against your arm.
Bicep straps help achieve a locked-in feel up top near your shoulder. Adjusting compression here prevents slippage while cradling.
Some Under Armour pads feature removable or repositionable pad segments. Moving or swapping pieces modifies protection levels and flex points.
Interchangeable pads allow you to increase padding for more intense game day action or decrease bulk for faster training sessions.
Straps threaded through slits grant you leverage to really crank down and achieve an immobilized fit that hugs your muscles.
Carefully adjusted pads shouldn’t restrict or pinch. Light compression stimulates muscles and blood flow for enhanced performance.
The right tightness balances protection and mobility for confident checking, passing, and shooting. Test different tension levels to find your fit.
Properly fitted Under Armour lacrosse arm guards become an extension of your body for limitless motion and maximum security during play.
Impact protection levels offered by Under Armour elbow guards
Under Armour engineers lacrosse elbow pads to absorb and dissipate high-impact blows to keep your joints safe from harm. Multiple layers and materials diffuse energy.
Thick dual-density foam disperses force from direct elbow hits and checks. The softer interior foam dampens initial impact while the firmer outer layer prevents penetration.
Injection molded TPU or EVA caps on the point of the elbow shield against bending. This hard shell material diffuses stress off the joint.
Foam segments over the triceps and forearm protect these vulnerable muscles and tendons from bruising checks and slashes.
High-density memory foam conforms to your elbow shape over time for customized energy dispersion based on your unique joint contours.
Under Armour’s ArmourSorb tech utilizes strategically placed hex-shaped foam pads to redirect and absorb linear and rotational impacts from all angles.
By dispersing energy laterally through the pad structure, ArmourSorb dramatically reduces transmission of force to the elbow.
Hard plastic caps also protect against hyper-extension and dislocation by buttressing the natural stops of your joint’s range of motion.
Rigorous lab testing ensures Under Armour elbow pads meet NOCSAE standards for lacrosse arm protection against severe impacts.
Durability and maintenance needs for long-lasting performance
Under Armour designs lacrosse arm guards to withstand repeated rugged use on the field. Proper maintenance keeps them going strong for seasons.
Tough exteriors resist abrasions, tears and deformation from constant wear. Under Armour uses high denier nylons and ballistic polyester blends.
Reinforced double stitching around perimeter seams and stress points prevents rupturing or unraveling even when pulled and stretched regularly.
Sturdy velcro and dense foam retain shape and performance after hard checks spread impact forces through the pads.
Padding retains protective qualities over time versus packing down and flattening permanently under pressure.
Washing arm guards regularly eliminates germs, sweat residue, and dirt that can degrade materials prematurely. Use mild detergent and air dry.
Proper storage keeps pads safe from pets, younger siblings, or other environmental damage when not in use.
Inspect gear periodically for ripped stitching, loose straps, or thinning foam indicating a need for replacement.
With proper care, quality Under Armour lacrosse arm sleeves provide durable protection for multiple seasons of peak performance.
Aesthetic preferences – colors, designs, patterns
Beyond just technical performance, the visual look of your gear matters. Under Armour lacrosse arm pads come in various colors and feature bold logos and prints.
Popular tonal colorways include black, navy, red, royal blue, chrome, forest green, graphite, orange, neon yellow, camo and more. There are options to match any team uniform.
Two-tone styles feature complementary color mixes for a distinctive aesthetic. Contrasting padded zones create striking visual dimensionality.
Bold oversized UA logos on bicep straps and down the forearm provide team identity. Large text and graphics maximize style impact.
Under Armour iconic print patterns liven up drab solid-color pads. Camo, stars and stripes, weathered graphic prints add flair.
There are also limited edition seasonal lacrosse arm pad releases with premium looks and upgraded details to enhance style.
Custom pads allow you to design a one-of-a-kind look just for you. Pick unique colors and even add your number for personalization.
Aesthetic preferences come down to your creativity and how you want to represent yourself on the field through your gear.
Under Armour’s array of lacrosse arm pad styles, colors, and prints lets you protect your arms with swagger.
Using arm guards for practice versus game settings
Lacrosse arm pads provide protection, but your needs may vary between practices and games. Consider modifying your Under Armour gear usage for each setting.
For heavy contact practices, maximum protection takes priority. Use pro-level arm guards with huge padding to shield from hits by overly aggressive teammates.
Lighter pads allow greater mobility for non-contact skill drills. Focus on movement over protection when training technique.
New plays and formations are best learned wearing your game day pads. Make practices as close to real games as possible.
Take advantage of removable pads to increase or decrease bulk as needed practice-to-practice based on the plan.
For pre-game warm-ups, wear the same pads you’ll use in competition for an accurate feel and range of motion.
Come game time, fresh clean arm guards provide optimal safety and performance when it matters most against real opponents.
Having a practice pair preserves the condition of your nicer game day pads for when it really counts.
Use practice as a testing ground to dial in preferences for game day protection in terms of fit, mobility and style.
Matching your Under Armour lacrosse arm pads to the intensity level and purpose optimizes their effectiveness.
Finding the best deals on Under Armour lacrosse arm pads
Under Armour lacrosse gear carries premium price tags, but you can often find sales if you know where to look. Use these tips to get quality UA protection at a discount.
Check the Under Armour website for online specials and clearance on last season’s pad styles. Sign up for email alerts about flash sales and promo codes.
Big box sporting good stores will discount Under Armour arm pads at certain times of year when they refresh inventory. Look for sales in January and August.
Smaller lacrosse specialty shops may have sales around the holidays and during inventory turnover in summer. Ask about upcoming deals.
Scour resale sites like Sideline Swap, Craigslist and eBay for used pads in good shape. Just inspect carefully for damage.
The Pricetagger browser extension automatically looks for coupon codes when you shop online. It tries them all to find the best discount.
Sign up for UA’s promo emails, follow their social accounts, and read their blog for news of upcoming sales and clearance events.
Team up with teammates to buy in bulk direct from Under Armour for a group quantity discount.
Talk to your coach – they may have an insider deal with Under Armour to outfit the team affordably.
With the right timing and effort, you can save money on premium Under Armour lacrosse arm protection.
Care and cleaning tips to extend usable life
With proper maintenance, quality Under Armour lacrosse arm guards can last for multiple seasons of play. Follow these care instructions.
Hand wash pads with mild detergent after each use to eliminate bacteria, sweat residue, and odors that degrade materials.
Air dry completely before storage to prevent pad mildew that can weaken protective foams.
Spot clean scuff marks on plastic caps or velcro closures to keep them working effectively.
Disinfect gear periodically with antimicrobial sprays designed for sports equipment.
Inspect pads before each use for rips, tears, or loose stitching needing repair. Address issues promptly.
Avoid exposing your pads to extreme heat or cold which can damage foams and fabrics.
Keep pads out of direct sunlight when not in use, as UV rays break down materials.
Store gear properly between games in a dry, ventilated area.
Replace worn or defective pads. Don’t try to overly extend lifespan through repairs.
With attentive care for your lacrosse arm pads, Under Armour gear will deliver lasting protection season after season.
Looking to Buy the Best Under Armour Lacrosse Arm Guards in 2022?: 15 Crucial Things to Consider Before Buying
As an avid lacrosse player, finding the right protective gear is essential. A good pair of arm guards can make all the difference when it comes to avoiding injuries to your elbows and arms on the field. Under Armour is one of the top brands for lacrosse equipment, known for their innovative technology and durable construction. If you’re in the market for new Under Armour lacrosse arm guards, there are several key factors to weigh as you shop around and compare the options.
First and foremost, consider the level of protection offered. Under Armour lacrosse arm pads come in a range of protective capabilities. Entry-level models focus on basic shielding for the elbow and forearm area, while higher-end options incorporate more robust padding and plastic caps to handle the forceful checks and slashes common in competitive play. Determine how much protection your position and playing style demand, and choose Under Armour lacrosse elbow pads accordingly.
Look at the fit and adjustability of the arm guard design. You want a secure compression fit that stays put and doesn’t restrict mobility. Under Armour uses flexible materials and incorporates straps to customize the fit. Try on different models to see how the sizing runs and what feels best suited to your arm size and shape.
Evaluate the overall comfort level when wearing the arm guards. Lightweight construction and ventilated fabric panels can help maximize breathability. Make sure any plastic caps or rigid protective plates don’t dig into your arm or chafe. The padding should offer impact absorption without being overly bulky.
Consider moisture-wicking performance. Under Armour lacrosse elbow pads use sweat-wicking fabrics and antimicrobial technology to keep you cool and dry on the field. This enhances comfort and helps avoid issues with odor and bacterial growth over time.
Look for a durable and abrasion-resistant outer shell. The guard should withstand all the wear and tear of practices and games over the course of a season or more. Under Armour lacrosse arm pads feature tough woven fabrics designed to take a beating. Reinforced stitching around stress points also improves structural integrity.
Don’t overlook forearm and wrist protection. Many Under Armour models integrate additional padding that extends lower on the arm for more complete coverage. Make sure the design you choose has ample protection for these vulnerable areas.
Consider convenience factors like easy on/off access. Under Armour lacrosse elbow pads utilize stretch fabrics, zip openings, and adjustable straps so you can quickly put the pads on and take them off as needed.
Look for integrated performance technologies if they align with your priorities. Some Under Armour lacrosse elbow pad models offer compression support, odor reduction, and sweat activation claims intended to provide additional comfort and functionality.
Pay attention to any protective plate removal options. Some Under Armour designs allow you to take out external plastic caps if you want to reduce bulk and weight. This customization capability helps optimize the pads for your needs.
Compare supplementary features like integrated elbow sleeves and forearm compression bands. These provide stability, support, and an anchored fit.
Consider versatility options. Can the pads be worn for other contact sports beyond lacrosse? Youth and adult sizing? Under Armour lacrosse arm pads aim for broad applicability and crossover appeal.
Look at color selection. Under Armour offers a range of colors to match team uniforms and personal style preferences. Color-coordinated pads can complete your on-field look.
Review product specs and measurements. Know the sizing, dimensions, and included components so you get the right Under Armour model for your needs.
Check any warranty coverage. Under Armour stands behind their gear with solid construction but it’s good to understand the damage protections in case you need them.
Consider budget. Under Armour lacrosse arm pads range from around $30 for basic designs up past $100 for top protection and features. Know how much performance you need for your budget.
Read feedback from other players. Check lacrosse equipment forums and reviews to see what current users say about comfort, durability, and protection for the pads you’re considering.
By carefully evaluating these factors as you research your options, you’ll be equipped to select high-quality Under Armour lacrosse arm guards that offer the fit, protection, and performance features you need to play your best on the field.