Best Arm Protection for American Football | Sleeve, shiver, elbow [Review]

In football, your arms are constantly exposed on the field. Fortunately, there are several types of arm guards to boost your game.

It is important to protect yourself as much as possible when you are on the 'shoutiron' stands.

As a football player you know that there are protective equipment is required to play the sport, and you may need to consider using some extra gear.

The latter also includes arm protection. Whatever position you play in, your arms will be exposed.

I took a look at the arm guards on the current market and picked out the best models. These models can be found in the table below and I will discuss them one by one later in the article.

Before I explain what to look for when choosing the best arm protection, I want to show you my favorite arm sleeve: the McDavid 6500 Hex Padded Arm Sleeve. In addition to receiving thousands of positive reviews on Amazon, this sleeve protects most of your arm. The sleeve is also provided with extra elbow protection and ensures that your skin can continue to breathe.

Is this not quite what you had in mind or do you want to know what other types of protection exist? No problem! You can view various options in the table below.

Best arm protection for American Football	Image
Best arm sleeve with elbow pad: McDavid 6500 Hex Padded Arm Sleeve	(view more images)
Best Arm Protection For Forearm: Champro TRI-FLEX Forearm Pad	(view more images)
Best Arm Shiver For Elbow: Nike Hyperstrong Core Padded Forearm Shivers 2019	(view more images)
Best arm sleeve without padding: Nike Pro Adult Dri-FIT 3.0 Arm Sleeves	(view more images)
Best sleeve with forearm and elbow pad: Hobrave Padded Arm Sleeves	(view more images)

What types of American Football arm protection are there?

Examples of arm protection for football are arm sleeves, arm shivers and elbow sleeves.

arm sleeves

The full arm sleeve is a widely used accessory at every level. Arm sleeves cover the player's entire arm; from the wrist to over the biceps.

You can choose from arm sleeves that feature compression technology and/or that are made from a mix of spandex and nylon.

Pro tips for every sport

Share

Watch on

These sleeves may not provide the best protection, but they can help reduce chafing during a match.

Some arm sleeves are designed with padding on the elbow or forearm to absorb some of the shock players may encounter.

These padded arm sleeves are popular among quarterbacks, receivers, running backs and other players who experience a lot of physical contact on the field.

Many arm sleeves are made of lightweight material to help keep you cool on the pitch. And don't worry about unwanted moisture either - these sleeves are designed to keep you dry.

However, some players find arm sleeves uncomfortable or perhaps too tight. In such cases, arm shivers or elbow pads may be a better idea.

poor shivers

These are similar to the arm sleeves, but cover less of the arm. Some only cover the forearm, while other models reach from the wrist to the biceps.

The choice between an arm sleeve and an arm shiver often comes down to personal preference.

While some are made with compression technology that helps protect against chafing, there are also arm shivers designed to provide extra security.

Such shivers, like arm sleeves, offer a padded layer along the forearm that benefits players such as running backs dealing with aggressive defenders.

The longer shives often feature padding that runs from the forearm to the elbow and helps reduce the impact of blows players experience on the pitch.

Shivers can feel lighter and less hot compared to full sleeves. They, on the other hand, offer slightly less protection against scratches, bruises and abrasions.

However, an arm shiver is disadvantageous in colder weather because it only covers part of the arm.

Elbow protection

Padded elbow sleeves – which extend from your forearm to above your elbow – help absorb some of the shock from the impact, while maintaining full mobility throughout the game.

Many of these styles are made to conform to and move with your body for a personalized fit and are popular in positions such as running backs and full backs.

Elbow protection is designed with football control in mind.

They are worn by any player who runs through a narrow gap and tries to protect the ball while the opponents try to knock the ball out of his or her hands.

Sometimes you will also see a defensive lineman or linebacker wearing them.

Elbow pads have become a little less common these days with the emergence of technologies that keep improving.

Players look for the lighter, faster items.

For example, 'skill positions' – such as receivers, defensive backs and running backs – are known for going for the more “swag” or fashionable material, which unfortunately does not include elbow pads (anymore).

Nevertheless, they can still come in handy.

Find the top 5 best facemasks for your American Football helmet reviewed here

Buying guide: how do I choose good arm protection?

Arm and elbow protection should fit snugly, but not be too tight.

As mentioned above, there are three types of arm/elbow protection, namely 'sleeves', 'arm shivers' and 'elbow sleeves'.

Find the right size

Specific sizing may vary by brand, but use the following measurement steps as a guide to find the right size for you:

• Sleeves: Measure the length of your arm, the circumference of your biceps and the circumference of your forearm/upper wrist. Then look in the table for the correct size.
• Arm shivers (for your forearm): Measure the circumference of your forearm. If the shiver extends above your elbow, measure the circumference of your biceps as well. Then look in the table for the correct size.
• Elbow Sleeves: Measure the circumference of your elbow. Then look in the table for the correct size.

What else to consider

In addition to determining the type of arm protection and your size, there are a number of other things to consider when buying arm protection.

For example, have you ever had an arm or elbow injury?

In such a case it seems sensible to me to go for a sleeve that offers extra protection in the place where you previously had an injury.

It is also useful to determine in advance how much you want to spend on a pair of arm sleeves.

Are you looking for one with full arm protection? Do you want one with extra padding on the elbow and/or forearm?

Is the sleeve suitable for all weather conditions and what about dissipating heat and moisture?

It's important to protect yourself as best you can when you're on the pitch. As a football athlete you should therefore definitely consider using some extra protection, such as arm protection.

A jersey always has short sleeves, so your arms will not be protected (unless you wear a shirt with long sleeves under your jersey of course).

Best Arm Protection for American Football

Curious about the best models? Then read on!

Best Arm Sleeve with Elbow Pad: McDavid 6500 Hex Padded Arm Sleeve

(view more images)

• Protects the arm halfway up the biceps
• With elbow protection
• Latex-free material
• Breathable
• Stimulates better blood flow
• Can be washed in the washing machine
• Available in different sizes
• DC Moisture Management Technology
• Available in various colors

Are you looking for a long arm sleeve with elbow protection? Then the Mcdavid padded arm sleeve can be the ideal choice.

The arm sleeve is made of latex-free material, contains premium stitching and is made of a breathable fabric. The product stays in place with every movement.

You simply slide the sleeve over your left and/or right arm. Ensure the elbow pad – which features superior closed cell foam padding – sits neatly on the elbow.

The sleeve should fit snugly without giving a pinching feeling. The sleeve also stimulates better blood circulation.

Conveniently, you can simply throw the sleeve in the washing machine without any problems. Furthermore, the sleeve is made to fit most athletes and runs from size XS, Small, Medium, Large, to XL-XXXL.

The Dc Moisture Management Technology keeps the sleeve cool, dry and odor free. The long sleeve prevents chafing and scratches on the arms and the arm compression keeps the muscles warm.

The McDavid HEX Technology delivers remarkable protection and confidence. The sleeve reduces fatigue and cramps, so you can go faster and longer.

The product has received more than three thousand positive reviews (on Amazon) and is available in several colors (white, black, red, pink, dark pink and blue).

Check the latest prices here

Best Forearm Pad: Champro TRI-FLEX Forearm Pad

(view more images)

• Tri-flex pad system
• Dri-gear technology
• Compression
• Available in different sizes
• Spandex/Polyester

This underarm sleeve is designed to provide optimal protection, flexibility and comfort while playing a variety of sports – including football.

The tri-flex pad system is made up of strategically placed triangular pads that adapt to the player's body.

It provides superior support to the forearm and protects against impact during training or competition.

While you work hard for the win, the dri-gear technology works hard to wick away moisture so you feel cool and comfortable.

Thanks to the material (spandex/polyester), an excellent (compression) fit and comfort is offered.

The sleeve is available in sizes Small, Medium and Large; perfect for every age and every level.

“Unfortunately” this forearm sleeve is only available in black.

This product has also been rated very positively by many buyers (around 600, at the time of writing).

This forearm protection is perfect for warm weather as it covers only part of your arm.

Thanks to the padding, your forearms are well protected and your freedom of movement is not restricted.

However, if you are looking for a little more protection, the McDavid arm sleeve may be a better idea, because it covers more of your skin.

Even if you are looking for extra protection for your elbow, the McDavid is a better choice.

Check the latest prices here

Best Arm Shiver For Elbow: Nike Hyperstrong Core Padded Forearm Shivers 2019

(view more images)

• Forearm and elbow protection
• 60% Polyester, 35% Ethylene Vinyl Acetate and 5% Spandex
• Dri-FIT® technology
• You get two shivers
• Available in two different sizes
• Available in different colors
• Flat seams

Are you looking for protection for your elbow that does not extend too far over your upper arm? Then the Nike Hyperstrong Core Padded Forearm Shiver could be the right choice.

The Nike Hyperstrong Shiver is an abrasion-resistant, close-fitting sleeve that provides a supportive fit.

The padding, which runs over the forearm and elbow, provides cushioning. The shiver is made of 60% polyester, 35% ethylene vinyl acetate and 5% spandex.

Sweat-wicking Dri-FIT® technology keeps you cool and dry at all times. The flat seams provide a smooth feel.

With purchase you get a pair (so two) shivers. They are available in sizes Small/Medium (9.5-11 inches) and Large/X Large (11-12.5 inches).

To find the right size, measure the diameter of the largest part of your forearm and look in the size chart.

Finally, you can choose from the colors black, white and 'cool grey'.

Whether you go for this one or one of the other options is a matter of preference.

Where this shiver only partially covers your arm but does provide elbow protection, the McDavid sleeve covers your entire arm and you also get extra elbow protection.

The Champro is a better choice if you want to cover your arms as little as possible and only want to protect your forearms.

Check the latest prices here

Best Arm Sleeve Without Padding: Nike Pro Adult Dri-FIT 3.0 Arm Sleeves

(view more images)

• Compression
• Dri-FIT
• 80% Polyester, 14% Spandex and 6% Rubber
• long sleeve

There are also complete sleeves that are only intended to provide compression, or perhaps against scratches, abrasions, bruises and UV radiation, but do not have extra protection in the form of padding.

With Nike Pro Adult Dri-FIT 3.0 arm sleeves you add a smooth layer between the playing field and your arms.

The compression fabric minimizes scratches and abrasions to ensure your performance stays high. Made with Dri-FIT fabric, these sleeves keep your arms cool and dry.

It speeds up evaporation to minimize sweat retention.

The product comes in pairs, in the color black with a white Nike sign, and is made of 80% polyester, 14% spandex and 6% rubber. The sleeve runs the entire length of your arm, from your wrist to your biceps.

Available in sizes Small and Medium with a length of 9.8 – 10.6 inches (25 – 26 cm) and 10.6 – 11.4 inches (26 – 20 cm).

With about 500 positive reviews, this product is also an excellent choice.

Fight distractions – such as fatigue and abrasions – during the match by wearing the Nike Pro Adult Dri-FIT 3.0 arm sleeves.

Check the latest prices here

Best Sleeve with Forearm and Elbow Pad: Hobrave Padded Arm Sleeves

(view more images)

• Protects entire arm
• two sleeves
• With elbow and forearm pad
• Breathable
• 85% Polyester/15% Spandex fabric
• Cooling technology
• UPF50
• For all ages and fitness levels
• Compression
• Ergonomic seams
• Anti-slip
• Washable in the washing machine
• Sustainability
• Stretch

The Hobrave sleeves are perfect if you want to protect your entire arm well. They are equipped with an elastic closure and have a thickened elbow and forearm pad.

These help absorb shock and withstand impact. The risk of injury in a battle on the field is thus significantly reduced.

When purchasing you will receive a sleeve for both arms. These are breathable and the moisture is also effectively absorbed and removed.

The light, stretch material, made of 85% polyester/15% spandex, offers an excellent fit and comfort. The durable material will prevent allergies.

The sleeves also protect well against UV radiation.

They are equipped with a cooling technology that keeps the skin cool and dry, and thanks to the UPF50 factor, more than 98% of harmful UVA and UVB radiation is blocked.

The compression fabric provides superior and optimal comfort and support. The sleeves are designed for real athletes.

The ergonomic, flat seams minimize friction and ensure perfect freedom of movement.

The fit of the material ensures that the joints remain stable regardless of the activity being practiced, be it light or heavy.

Perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels.

The sleeves are also anti-slip thanks to the silicone strip. So they won't slide down and will always stay in place.

The sleeves provide the right support for activities that require heavy arm movement, including football, volleyball and tennis.

You can easily wash the sleeves in the washing machine. Then hang the sleeves to dry.

Hobrave also offers a guarantee if the product is not to your liking. Always consult the size chart before placing the order.

This may be the best choice if you're looking for maximum protection.

Not only will these sleeves cover your entire arms, extra protection has also been added for both the elbows and forearms.

Check the latest prices here

Also read: Best volleyball shoes for men and women reviewed | our tips

Arm protection in American Football: the benefits

Wearing arm protection has more benefits than you probably think.

Read below which ones they are.

Prevent muscle strains

Overuse and strain are common injuries in football. If you push your body to the limit and go full speed with every tackle, you can strain a muscle very easily.

Sometimes when you get hit you can't anticipate how your body parts will move.

To keep your muscles in the correct position and prevent movements outside their normal range of motion, arm sleeves can be very helpful.

The unique, compressive design of arm sleeves provides extra support to protect muscles from overload.

Improve recovery

Proper sleeve fit is critical to reap the benefits of compression.

If the sleeve is too tight, blood circulation is restricted, which can be detrimental to recovery, while loose-fitting sleeves provide no compression and sag.

Because compression technology promotes better blood circulation to the extremities, more oxygen can be transported to the areas that are (or have been) active, replenishing muscles and allowing them to recover more efficiently between matches.

For even faster recovery after a hard workout, you can getting started with a foam roller to loosen stiff muscles

block UV rays

Athletes who spend hours in the sun can also take advantage of the UV protection that arm sleeves provide.

High-quality arm sleeves not only wick away sweat and keep athletes cool, but also reduce the risk of sunburn and UV exposure.

Protecting limbs

The player's arms are an important part of the game because they are used constantly.

Compression arm sleeves provide an extra layer of protection for the skin, including against scratches and bruises.

In addition, some players, especially linemen, wear a flexible pad on the forearm or elbow for increased protection.

Increase support

Arm sleeves can be extremely helpful when it comes to throwing and catching a ball. This is because they can provide support when the action is exercised.

In fact, arm sleeves can keep the muscles aligned during the movement, which is what you need to be able to catch and throw the ball properly.

Increase muscle endurance

Since compression promotes recovery in athletes, performance will also improve.

Sleeves help deliver oxygenated blood to tired muscles, meaning more energy for your muscles to last through the entire match.

FAQ

Finally, some questions you may have about arm protection in American Football.

Do NFL players wear arm sleeves?

Yes, many NFL players wear arm sleeves. In the NFL you see different types of arm sleeves, but there are also players who don't wear them.

Arm sleeves are legal and offer the same kind of protection to NFL players as they do to players at lower levels.

How much do football arm sleeves cost?

Football arm sleeves often cost between $15 and $45. Sleeves and shivers without padding (extra protection) are in most cases cheaper.

Sleeves that are made of high quality materials and with a lot of padding are often the more expensive versions.

In what sizes can you get arm sleeves?

The sizes of arm sleeves available depend on the brand.

Sometimes there is only one size (one size fits all), where other brands have sizes S to XL and still other brands group sizes (for example S/M and L/XL).

Every brand or company has its own sizes, so it is always wise to check the size chart for the right size.

Conclusion

Arm sleeves, shivers and elbow protection have become increasingly popular over the years.

Athletes of all kinds wear them for the many health benefits they provide, including aiding recovery and improving performance.

How you prefer your arm protection is a matter of preference. The more your arms are covered, the more you are naturally protected.

But not everyone likes this; some players prefer to wear less protection. So think about what suits your preferences best and what you think is comfortable.

I also hope that thanks to this article you have found out that arm sleeves not only provide extra protection, but also just look really cool.

You can get them in all colors and prints.

Football is a hard, physical sport. Make sure you always protect yourself as well as possible, so that you can practice the sport carefree for years to come!

Read also my review of the top 6 best shoulder pads for american football

Joost Nusselder, the founder of referees.eu is a content marketer, father and loves to write about all kinds of sports, and has also played a lot of sports himself for most of his life. Now since 2016, he and his team have been creating helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with their sports activities.