What Do Arm Sleeves Do?

Arm sleeves are more than just a fashion trend. In fact, compression sleeves have been used for decades across many sports. Athletes will wear them for many reasons, including for performance and recovery.

Compression Aids Recovery

They are primarily worn for the benefits of the compression they provide. Various sports medicine studies have shown that this compression helps to stabilize the arm muscles and increases blood flow, both of which help in recovery after rigorous activity or minor injuries. These same studies stress the importance of having the right fit and fabric to receive the benefits. This makes sense – if the sleeve is too tight, blood circulation becomes restricted which actually can be harmful to recovery, while loose sleeves slip down and provide no compression.

They Enhance Performance & Reduces Chance of Injury

The compression benefits that aid recovery for athletes also enhances game-time performance. From basketball players to major league pitchers and tennis pros, arm motions are critical to their playing careers. The muscle support and improved circulation from compression sleeves gives many athletes an edge over the competition.

Pads for Protection

You may notice that athletes, especially football players, will have a flexible pad on the forearm or elbow portion of their arm sleeve. These players wear arm sleeves for the added protection that the padding offers. Elbow injuries can end the season for a football player. The simple padding on an arm sleeve reduces the risk of injury during hard hits or tackles to the ground.

They Take The Burn

Arm sleeves that are made from quality material can take lots of abuse. Sports players in contact sports often use sleeves to prevent “rug burn” and skin rash from contact with the playing surface. This is especially needed on turf fields where skin rash can be quite painful.

They Block UV Rays

Runners, bikers, golfers, and other athletes who spend hours in the sun can benefit from the UV protection that arm sleeves provide. Sleeves made from quality material wick sweat and keep you cool, so wearing them is not a burden in hot weather. The UV protection can reduce the risk of significant sunburns and UV exposure.

Tattoo Coverage

Arm sleeves are often used to cover tattoos that may be considered offensive or inappropriate. Even athletes use them for this purpose.

Just Look Cool

Finally, athletes at all levels wear arm sleeves to add a flare of style. Let’s face it, arm sleeves look slick and can compliment team colors or be used to send a message. There is some truth to the statement “look good, feel good, play good.” Some athletes just like the look of arm sleeves.