How to choose between an arm guard and arm pad for archery. What are the key features of the Warrior Evo Arm Guard. How does the Warrior Evo Pro offer enhanced protection. What factors should you consider when selecting an arm guard. How do different materials affect arm guard performance. Why is proper sizing crucial for arm guards. How can you maintain and care for your archery arm guard.

Choosing Between an Arm Guard and Arm Pad: What’s Best for You?

When it comes to protecting your arms during archery, the choice between an arm guard and an arm pad is crucial. Both serve different purposes and offer unique benefits. To make an informed decision, consider the following factors:

• Purpose and coverage area
• Level of contact with the bow
• Size and fit
• Material composition
• Adjustability options

Arm guards are minimalist in design, focusing on protecting the inside of your bow arm from string slap. In contrast, arm pads offer more comprehensive protection, covering the entire forearm area. Your choice will depend on your specific needs and shooting style.

Purpose and Coverage: Protection vs. Comfort

Do you need basic protection from string slap or more comprehensive padding? An arm guard suffices for protecting against string contact on your inner forearm. However, if you’re looking to shield against bow grip pressure and prevent bruising, an arm pad might be the better option.

Contact with the Bow: Feel vs. Interference

How much direct contact do you prefer with your bow? Arm guards allow for more skin contact, which some archers prefer for consistency and feel. On the other hand, arm pads create more separation, which could potentially interfere with grip and release technique.

Sizing: Ensuring the Perfect Fit

Proper sizing is crucial for both arm guards and pads. To get the right fit, measure the circumference of your forearm a few inches down from the elbow. This measurement will help you select the appropriate size for optimal protection and comfort.

Key Features of the Warrior Evo Arm Guard: A Closer Look

The Warrior Evo Arm Guard has gained popularity among archers due to its well-designed features. Let’s explore what makes this arm guard stand out:

• Adjustable straps for a customized fit
• Moisture-wicking lining for comfort
• Durable leather exterior
• Versatile design fitting either arm
• Minimal profile for unrestricted movement

Adjustability: Customizing Your Comfort

How important is a secure fit in an arm guard? The Warrior Evo features fully adjustable straps, allowing you to customize the fit above your elbow. This prevents slippage during shooting and lets you modify compression for maximum comfort.

Moisture Management: Staying Cool Under Pressure

Can an arm guard help manage sweat during intense archery sessions? The Warrior Evo incorporates a soft, moisture-wicking lining that pulls sweat away from your arm, keeping you cool and dry. This feature is particularly beneficial during long practice sessions or tournaments, especially in hot weather.

Durability and Style: The Leather Advantage

Why choose leather for an arm guard? The Warrior Evo’s outer layer is crafted from top-grain leather, offering both durability and classic style. Leather tends to hold up well over time compared to synthetic alternatives and provides a professional look for competitions or hunting.

Warrior Evo Pro: Enhanced Protection for Serious Archers

For archers seeking an extra level of protection, the Warrior Evo Pro builds upon the original design with additional features:

• Thicker, multi-layer padding
• Dual adjustable straps
• Enhanced moisture-wicking capabilities
• Premium leather exterior

Advanced Padding: Shielding Against Repeated Impact

How does the Evo Pro offer enhanced protection? Unlike the slim profile of the regular Evo, the Pro model incorporates thicker, multi-layer padding on the interior. This provides enhanced cushioning to vulnerable areas of the elbow and forearm, ideal for archers who experience frequent string contact or high grip pressure.

Secure Fit: The Dual Strap Advantage

Why are two straps better than one? The Evo Pro features an additional adjustable strap, ensuring the guard stays securely in place. This dual-strap design allows for even more customization in terms of compression and fit, catering to archers who demand precision in their equipment.

Material Matters: Choosing the Right Composition for Your Needs

The material of your arm guard or pad plays a significant role in its performance and durability. Common materials include:

• Leather
• Plastic
• Neoprene
• Vinyl
• Microfiber

Each material offers unique benefits and drawbacks. Consider factors such as durability, flexibility, moisture-wicking properties, and maintenance requirements when making your choice.

Leather: Traditional Durability

Why do many archers prefer leather arm guards? Leather offers a classic look and exceptional durability. It molds to your arm over time, providing a custom fit. However, leather requires more maintenance than synthetic materials and may not wick moisture as effectively.

Synthetic Materials: Modern Performance

How do synthetic materials benefit archers? Materials like neoprene, vinyl, and microfiber offer excellent moisture-wicking properties and are often more flexible than leather. They’re also typically easier to clean and maintain. However, they may not match the durability and classic aesthetics of leather.

Sizing and Fit: Ensuring Optimal Protection and Comfort

Proper sizing is crucial for the effectiveness of your arm guard or pad. An ill-fitting guard can slip, chafe, or fail to provide adequate protection. Follow these steps to ensure the perfect fit:

1. Measure your forearm circumference a few inches below the elbow
2. Consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart
3. Consider your shooting style and personal preferences
4. Try on different sizes if possible

The Importance of Proper Sizing

Why is correct sizing so crucial for arm guards? A properly sized arm guard will stay in place during shooting, provide consistent protection, and won’t interfere with your form. Too loose, and it may slip; too tight, and it could restrict blood flow or cause discomfort.

Adjustability: Fine-Tuning Your Fit

How can adjustable features enhance your arm guard’s fit? Look for arm guards with adjustable straps or closures. These allow you to fine-tune the fit based on your arm size, shooting conditions, and personal comfort preferences. Adjustability also accommodates changes in arm size due to muscle growth or fluctuations.

Maintenance and Care: Prolonging the Life of Your Arm Guard

Proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your arm guard. Follow these tips to keep your gear in top condition:

• Clean regularly with appropriate products
• Allow to dry thoroughly after use
• Store in a cool, dry place
• Inspect for damage regularly
• Replace when showing signs of wear

Cleaning Techniques for Different Materials

How should you clean various arm guard materials? For leather, use a damp cloth and mild soap, followed by a leather conditioner. Synthetic materials can often be machine washed or wiped down with a disinfectant cloth. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions for specific guidance.

Storage and Inspection: Preventing Damage

Why is proper storage important for arm guards? Storing your arm guard in a cool, dry place prevents mold growth and material degradation. Regular inspection allows you to catch and address any damage early, potentially extending the life of your gear.

Specialized Arm Guards: Addressing Unique Archery Needs

While traditional arm guards suit most archers, specialized options exist for specific needs or preferences:

• Youth arm guards
• Competition-specific guards
• Traditional archery arm guards
• Hunting-oriented arm protection

Youth Arm Guards: Protecting Young Archers

How do youth arm guards differ from adult versions? Youth arm guards are typically smaller, with more vibrant colors or designs. They often feature extra padding to protect young, sensitive skin and may have simplified closure systems for easy use.

Competition Arm Guards: Optimizing Performance

What features do competition arm guards offer? Competition-focused arm guards often prioritize minimal interference with form and maximum adjustability. They may incorporate high-tech materials for moisture management and be designed to meet specific competition regulations.

The Role of Arm Guards in Archery Safety and Performance

Arm guards play a crucial role in both safety and performance for archers. Understanding their impact can help you appreciate the importance of selecting the right protection:

• Prevention of bruising and injury
• Increased confidence in shooting
• Improved focus on technique
• Enhanced comfort during extended practice

Injury Prevention: More Than Just Comfort

How do arm guards prevent injuries in archery? By shielding the inner forearm from string slap, arm guards prevent painful bruising and potential nerve damage. This protection allows archers to focus on their technique without fear of injury, leading to improved performance over time.

Psychological Benefits: Shooting with Confidence

Can arm guards improve an archer’s mental game? Knowing you’re protected from string slap can significantly boost confidence, especially for beginners. This increased confidence often translates to better focus, steadier aim, and ultimately, improved accuracy.

As we’ve explored, choosing the right arm guard involves considering various factors, from material and fit to specialized features. By understanding your needs and the options available, you can select an arm guard that not only protects you but also enhances your archery experience. Remember, the best arm guard is one that you’ll wear consistently, so prioritize comfort and functionality in your decision-making process.

Choosing Between an Arm Guard or Arm Pad

When it comes to protecting your arms during archery, you have two main options – arm guards or arm pads. Arm guards are minimalist and designed to protect just the inside of your bow arm from the bowstring. Arm pads offer more comprehensive protection, covering the entire forearm area.

So how do you decide which one is right for you? Here are some key factors to consider:

Purpose – If you just need basic protection from string slap on your inner forearm, a simple arm guard should suffice. But if you want more padding to shield against the pressures of the bow grip and prevent bruising, an arm pad is the better choice.

Level of Contact – Arm guards allow for more skin contact with the bow, which some archers prefer for consistency and feel. Pads create more separation and could interfere with grip and release technique.

Size – Make sure to get the right size arm guard or pad for a proper fit. Measure the circumference of your forearm a few inches down from the elbow.

Material – Guards are often leather or plastic. Pads may use neoprene, vinyl, microfiber or other synthetic materials for comfort and wicking ability. Leather looks classic but requires more care.

adjustability – Having straps that are adjustable allow you to customize the fit as needed for maximum comfort and security. Fixed bands may not offer as secure of a hold.

When choosing arm protection as an archer, consider your specific needs in terms of coverage, grip interference, moisture wicking and overall fit. Test options to see what provides the ideal blend of protection and shooting performance for your preferences and shooting style.

Key Features of the Warrior Evo Arm Guard

When evaluating arm guards for archery, one popular option to consider is the Warrior Evo Arm Guard. This arm guard comes loaded with useful features designed with the archer in mind. Here is an in-depth look at some of the key features that make the Warrior Evo a top choice:

Adjustable Straps – The Warrior Evo includes fully adjustable straps that allow you to customize the fit. Having straps you can tighten or loosen ensures a secure hold above the elbow. This prevents the guard from slipping down your arm when shooting. The adjustable straps also allow you to modify the compression as needed for maximum comfort.

Moisture-Wicking Lining – Inside the guard is a soft moisture-wicking lining. This helps pull sweat away from your arm and keeps you cool and dry. The moisture control is useful during long practice sessions or tournaments, especially in hot weather. Staying dry helps prevent discomfort and distraction.

Leather Exterior – The outer layer is made of top grain leather, providing durability and classic style. Leather holds up well over time and use compared to synthetic options. It also gives a professional look whether competing or hunting. Just be sure to properly care for the leather exterior.

Fits Either Arm – The Warrior Evo Guard is designed to comfortably fit on either your bow arm or draw arm. This versatility allows you to protect both inner elbows from string contact. Use on your bow hand for string clearance or the draw hand for smooth release.

Minimal Design – With its simple design, the Warrior Evo avoids unnecessary bulk and allows for full range of motion. It simply protects the inside of your elbow joint without interfering with your shooting form or feeling restrictive. The minimalist style keeps complete focus on technique.

The Warrior Evo contains many well-designed features to protect archers from string slap and reduce arm fatigue. Its adjustability, moisture-wicking lining, durable leather exterior, versatile fit and minimalist approach make it a dependable choice for most archers looking to upgrade their arm guard.

Warrior Evo Pro Offers Enhanced Protection

For archers seeking an extra level of arm protection, Warrior also offers the Evo Pro model. This arm guard builds on the features of the original Evo design but adds reinforced padding to shield your arm from repeated bow string contact and grip pressure.

Thicker Padding – Where the regular Evo has a slim profile, the Evo Pro incorporates thicker, multi-layer padding on the interior. This gives enhanced cushioning to vulnerable areas of the elbow and forearm.

Dual Adjustable Straps – An additional adjustable strap is included on the Evo Pro to keep the guard securely in place. The two adjustable straps allow you to customize compression and get the ideal snug fit.

Moisture Wicking Lining – Like the original, the Evo Pro has a moisture wicking lining to keep your arm dry as you shoot. This helps maintain comfort even during marathon practice routines or hot outdoor competitions.

Protective Leather Exterior – The Evo Pro features premium leather on the exterior for durability and resilience. Leather withstands frequent use and the occasional miss-shot better than most materials.

Bow Hand Focus – While you can use it on either arm, the Evo Pro is optimized for your bow hand. The padded zones are designed to protect against grip pressures and string whipping directly on your inner elbow joint.

While the Evo delivers reliable arm protection, the Pro version offers archers looking for extra defense against recurrent bow sting impacts and fatigue on the joints. Its thicker padding, added adjustability and bow hand focus provide a substantial upgrade in coverage. If your training intensity is high or you simply bruise easily, the Evo Pro warrants consideration for keeping your arms feeling fresh.

Pick the Right Size for a Proper Fit

When selecting an arm guard like the Warrior Evo models, it’s critical to choose the right size for a proper fit. Getting the correct size will maximize comfort and keep the guard securely in place.

Measure Arm Circumference – Use a soft measuring tape to measure the circumference of your bow arm around 3-4 inches down from the elbow. This is usually the widest part of the forearm where the guard will sit.

Consult Size Chart – Compare your measurement to the company’s size chart. Size increments are usually around 1-inch, like small fits 9-10 inches, medium 10-11 inches, large 11-12 inches, etc.

Account for Compression – Consider that the adjustable straps will compress the guard slightly. So err on the slightly looser side if between sizes to maintain circulation and mobility.

Test Fit Before Use – Ideally try the guard on in the store if possible and draw your bow a few times. Make sure there is no pinching or restricted range of motion.

Proper Arm Guard Fit – With the right fit, the guard should sit securely on your forearm just below the elbow. It should not slide down or twist your arm hair when shooting. You want snug but not overly tight.

Taking a minute to get your arm guard sizing right ensures maximum security, flexibility and comfort. An ill-fitting guard may impede your shot consistency. Dialing in the fit properly gives you one less distraction so you can focus on optimal shooting form and performance.

Don’t Sacrifice Comfort for Protection

Finding the right balance between comfort and protection is key when selecting an archery arm guard. While you want sufficient padding to shield your arm, you don’t want to sacrifice comfort and mobility.

Cushioning – Look for guards with strategic padding in high-impact zones like the elbow joint and forearm area. Multi-layer foam or soft synthetic insulation provides protection without bulk.

Breathable Materials – Leather looks great but can get hot. Moisture-wicking linings and mesh panels promote airflow. This keeps you cool and dry for long-term comfort.

Secure But Not Too Tight – Adjustable straps allow you to customize compression. Make sure the fit is snug but not overly restrictive. Too much pressure can cut off circulation and limit arm movement.

Minimalist Design – Streamlined guards without excessive materials allow for a natural range of motion. Bulky pads can feel restrictive and interfere with proper form.

Test for Interference – When trying a new guard, draw your bow fully a few times. Make sure the guard doesn’t limit your arm mobility or elbow alignment as you shoot.

The highest rated arm guards balance reliable protection with all-day comfort. They shield without restricting your movement or causing discomfort. Don’t settle for a guard that throws off your form or costs you endurance. With the right design, you can stay protected and comfortable.

Look for Moisture Wicking and Breathability

When evaluating archery arm guards, be sure to inspect the materials and design for good moisture wicking abilities and breathability. These features will keep you cool, dry and comfortable during use.

Moisture-Wicking Liner – Many top arm guards include an inner liner made of lightweight synthetic material that draws sweat away from your skin. This prevents the damp, clammy feeling that can be distracting.

Mesh Panels – Strategically placed mesh panels allow for maximum airflow circulation inside the guard. This brings cooling airflow to your skin and prevents overheating.

Ventilation Holes – Some guards incorporate ventilation grommets or holes in areas like the elbow to enhance breathability. These openings let heat escape.

Minimal Layers – Avoid guards with too many heavy layers of material that can cause you to overheat. Light, breathable materials maintain airflow.

Quick-Dry Fabrics – Modern synthetic fabrics designed to wick moisture and dry quickly keep sweat buildup to a minimum during extended wear.

Keeping your shooting arm cool, dry and comfortable is key for maintaining focus and stamina during practice and competition. Seek out arm guards made with breathable materials, wicking liners and ventilation. This climate control keeps you feeling fresh when the heat is on.

Consider Added Features Like Adjustable Straps

One extra feature to look for when shopping for an archery arm guard is adjustable straps. Guards with adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit and positioning.

Accommodate Changing Needs – Adjustable straps enable you to tweak the tightness as needed. This allows you to account for factors like changing arm size, outdoor temperature, and fatigue over long events.

Tunable Compression – Being able to control strap pressure means you can find your ideal balance of stability without excessive tightness. Non-adjustable bands can’t adapt if they feel too loose or too tight.

Adapt to Growth – For young archers, adjustable straps allow the guard to accommodate growth over time. You can gradually loosen it up as their arm grows rather than buying new guards.

Easy On and Off – Adjustable straps make it simple to take the guard on and off between uses. Fixed bands can be trickier to wiggle on and off.

Versatile Wear – The ability to modify tightness means the guard can be worn on either arm. Adjustability makes one guard more versatile.

Tuning in the ideal fit with adjustable straps results in a guard that stays put without restricting circulation or mobility. This adaptability also extends the useful life of the guard as your needs change over time. Adjustability is an underrated feature that pays dividends in comfort and performance.

Compare Different Arm Guard Materials

Archery arm guards come in a variety of materials, so it’s important to compare the pros and cons of each when making your selection.

Leather – Leather is a classic and durable material for arm guards. It provides a traditional look and withstands frequent use. However, leather requires more care and conditioning to prevent cracking. It’s also less breathable than synthetic fabrics.

Neoprene – Neoprene is thick, protective, and very comfortable against the skin. However, it can cause sweating. Neoprene needs air vents and wicking liners to enhance breathability.

Vinyl/Plastic – Vinyl and plastic guards are affordable, low maintenance, and water resistant. But they lack the pliability of other materials and can feel stiff or pinch skin.

Microfiber – Microfiber is very soft, flexible, moisture-wicking and quick-drying. It needs reinforced panels in high-impact areas for sufficient padding though.

Mesh Fabric – Mesh promotes maximum airflow and ventilation. But abrasion resistance is lower than solid materials, so mesh benefits from protective leather or vinyl overlays in key zones.

Trying guards made with different materials can help you determine which options provide the ideal blend of breathability, durability, and comfort for your needs. Consider your shooting frequency, environment and budget when evaluating material options.

Leather Guards Offer Classic Durability

Leather is a timeless material choice for archery arm guards. While leather requires proper care, it provides a traditional look and feel along with rugged durability.

Supple Feel – Top grain leather has a nice pliable feel and molds comfortably to your arm as you shoot. It feels less stiff than synthetic options.

Develops Character – The look of leather improves over time as it softly breaks in and develops a worn patina. This lends a vintage charm.

Weather Resistance – Leather stands up well to humidity, rain and sun exposure compared to fabrics susceptible to mildew and fading.

Long-Lasting – With proper conditioning, oil treatment and storage, a quality leather guard can last for many years of consistent use.

Classic Styling – For archers looking for a timeless, fashionable look, leather delivers on aesthetics and craftsmanship.

While synthetics are easier to care for, few materials match the durability and nostalgic styling of a well-made leather arm guard. Leather accrues character over time and provides a sophisticated traditional touch.

Synthetic Options are Affordable and Lightweight

While leather is the classic choice, synthetic arm guard materials like vinyl, plastic and microfiber also have advantages. These options are generally affordable, lightweight and low maintenance.

Budget-Friendly – Quality leather carries a higher price tag. Vinyl, plastic and microfiber guards cost noticeably less, making them appealing to new archers or kids.

Easy Care – Synthetics just need occasional wiping down versus intensive cleaning and conditioning required for leather items.

Lightweight Design – Plastics and microfiber weigh less than leather, creating a barely-there feel during use. This minimizes fatigue.

Moisture Wicking – Many synthetic blends incorporate high-tech moisture wicking fabrics to actively pull sweat away from skin.

Range of Styles – With diverse colors and pattern options, synthetics are ideal for archers looking for a bold, unique aesthetic.

Synthetics make arm guards accessible and low maintenance. While leather has an heirloom quality, plastics and microfibers offer convenience. Consider your budget, care commitment and style preferences when weighing material choices.

Focus Padding on High Impact Zones

Quality archery arm guards incorporate strategic padding placement, concentrating cushioning materials in the zones most vulnerable to repetitive impact and pressure during shooting sequences.

Elbow Joint Protection – Extra foam or padding on the inner elbow area helps shield this prominent joint from bow string contact and lessens fatigue.

Forearm Shielding – Added cushioning on the forearm below the elbow absorbs pressure from the bow handle and dampens vibration.

Strap Reinforcement – Well-padded, wide straps distribute compression force and prevent the bands from digging into the arm.

No Restrictive Bulk – While key areas need padding, overall design should still allow for natural arm movement without heavy materials impeding motion.

Breathable Backing – Despite added padding, moisture-wicking fabrics and venting provide airflow next to the skin for comfort.

Strategically concentrating padding in zones of recurrent impact allows for protection without unnecessary bulk. High-performance arm guards combine cushioning and ergonomics to safeguard elbows and forearms from excessive forces.

Match Your Guard Style to Your Gear

When selecting an archery arm guard, consider matching its style and design features to complement your bow setup and accessories.

Coordinate Colors – Choose guard colors that aesthetically match your riser, limbs, arrow wraps, quiver or other gear for a cohesive look.

Match Traditional or High-Tech – A classic leather guard pairs well with traditional longbows and wooden recurves, while sleek synthetic guards complement modern compound bows.

Consider Your Environment – Rugged leather is ideal for hunting in the field, while breathable synthetics make sense for competitions. Camo works for concealment when stalking game.

Comfort First – Make sure to prioritize fit, function and comfort over looks. But when possible, select a guard that aligns with your overall setup personality.

Consistency of Feel – Leather and synthetic handles have different feels. Choose a guard material that matches your preferences for grip and draw consistency.

A guard matching the rest of your gear provides aesthetic continuity and harmony. But never sacrifice performance and comfort solely for looks. With options abounding, you can likely find a guard that checks both boxes.

Prioritize a Secure, Non-Slip Fit

One of the most important factors when selecting an archery arm guard is ensuring a secure, non-slip fit that stays firmly in place on your arm as you shoot.

Snug But Not Tight – Proper fit means the guard should fit flush with your arm without pinching. Overly loose guards will slide downward while shooting.

Wide Adjustable Straps – Multiple straps that are fully adjustable help dial in an ideal custom fit with even compression.

Anchor Points Above Elbow – Straps positioned 2-3 inches above the elbow anchor the guard in place so it can’t migrate down your forearm.

Smooth Interior – Moisture-wicking liner materials that lie flat and avoid irritating seams helps prevent slipping.

No Twisting – Drawing the bowstring fully should not cause the guard to twist or rotate on your arm, which can be distracting.

Test Fit and Adjust – Take a few practice shots when trying out a new guard to ensure proper anti-slip security before relying on it in competition.

A properly fitted guard stays firmly and comfortably anchored no matter how many arrows you loose. Take the time to evaluate the fit so this vital protective gear does its job shot after shot.

Care Tips to Extend the Life of Your Guard

With proper care and maintenance, a quality archery arm guard can provide many years of reliable protection. Here are some tips for keeping your guard in top condition:

Store Properly – Keep your guard out of direct sunlight and avoid excessive heat like hot car interiors that could warp shape. Store loosely rather than compressing tightly.

Clean Regularly – Wipe leather guards with a leather cleaner/conditioner. Use mild soap and water on synthetics. This prevents salt, dirt and oil buildup.

Inspect for Wear – Check padding and stitching regularly. Re-glue any loose padding. Hand-wash and air dry if the liner gets heavily soiled.

Weatherproof – Treat leather with weatherproofing balms and sprays to prevent drying and cracking. Waterproofing helps repel rain and humidity.

Adjust Fit – Make sure to periodically check the tightness of adjustable straps as your arm size changes to prevent slipping.

Protect When Not In Use – Keep your guard in a protective sleeve or sheath when not shooting to prevent scratches or punctures.

With attentive care and maintenance, an arm guard should remain in serviceable condition for seasons of archery. Develop consistent upkeep habits to get the most longevity from your protective gear.

When It’s Time to Upgrade Your Archery Arm Protection

So how do you know when it’s time to retire your trusty old arm guard and upgrade to a new model? Here are some signs that indicate it may be time for replacement:

Excessive Wear – If the padding is compacted or the outer material is cracked/peeling, protection is compromised. Replace guards once wear is significant.

Changes in Fit – If strap adjustments no longer allow you to achieve a secure, non-slip fit, it likely means the shape has warped or padding shifted.

Irritation or Discomfort – An ill-fitting guard that frequently pinches, chafes or causes soreness means something in the sizing or design doesn’t work well for you anymore.

Declining Performance – If your current guard frequently twists, slides or needs repositioning mid-shoot, its performance is lacking.

Moisture Retention – If your guard frequently remains damp with sweat or loses breathability, the moisture-wicking function has diminished.

Advances in Design – Newer generation guards may incorporate innovative features that improve comfort, customization of fit, or durability.

As with any sporting gear, arm guards have a usable lifetime. Keep an eye out for signs of wear and loss of function. Upgrading provides an opportunity to test new technologies and find an even better fit for your current needs and shooting style.