Archery is certainly a wonderful and thrilling sport, but without the proper gear, it can lead to pain, bruises, and injuries.
To guarantee your best performance and to reduce the chances of getting injured, it is essential that you use the best archery arm guards.However, with so many models available on the market today, choosing the best one is often a difficult task.
To help you make the correct decision, the following are reviews of some of the best archery arm guards. So, make sure you give them a read before making your next purchase!
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Comparison of the Best Archery Arm Guards
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What is an Arm Guard? What Are They Used For?
If you’re a beginner, you’ll surely feel the bowstring burn when you shoot an arrow. This is not only uncomfortable but is extremely painful as well. For archers, it can lead to bruising or a skin rash if they continue shooting unprotected. Even if you wear thick clothing, you’ll be unable to prevent the string slap when you shoot. That’s why it’s essential to have an arm guard.
To put it simply, an arm guard is something which protects your arm while shooting an arrow. As the string rubs on the arm the most, it’s attached to the forearm. They’re also available in dark colors and camouflage designs to ensure that hunters remain unnoticed by their game.
What Makes a Great Arm Guard?
Due to the wide variety available, choosing the best arm guard can be a difficult decision. Following are some tips and factors to help you out!
Material
To see whether the arm guard is of the highest quality, consider the main material used in its construction. Although leather is a bit expensive, it is certainly the best choice. This is because it is extremely durable and provides far more comfort as compared to other materials.
Versatility
A high-quality unit should work in all sorts of environments and should provide comfort and protection in both hot and cold weather. Some cheaper, versatile materials which are used in the construction of arm guards include vinyl and suede.
Comfort
Another factor which can influence the quality of the product is its comfort. Make sure that the unit you choose is made from breathable materials and provides proper air circulation. It should be flexible and should not restrict the movement of your arm.
Price
You might be tempted to choose a product only because of its low price. However, cheaper models can also be inferior in terms of performance and functionality. It’s advisable to spend a bit more on an arm guard so that you can be confident about its durability and quality.
Pros and Cons of Using an Arm Guard
Shooting with a bowstring is not only uncomfortable, but it hurts a lot as well. In fact, it can cause bruises and skin rashes if you continue archery without being unprotected. An arm guard comes in handy for keeping your arms safe during the whole session.
Read on to learn about the major pros and cons of these products in order to improve your ability to make an informed decision.
Pros
An arm guard brings tons of advantages to its user. Listed below are a few of them.
Protected Arms
The most prominent advantage is to avoid string slap on your arms. After all, that is probably the main reason why you are out there in the market looking for an arm guard. Having a high-quality model protects your arm from skin rashes and any injury that might come from a bowstring.
Durable
A string slap can leave a bruise on the skin. A solid guard prevents that from happening. Plus, they are extremely durable and do not wear down quickly. You can rely on them regardless of any weather condition, which makes them perfect for hunters in the field.
User-friendly
Another great thing about these products is that they are available in a range of sizes. This means they can easily fit people of every size and prove great for quick adjustments whenever you are in a hurry.
Cons
While there are many advantages to an archery arm guard, there are a few drawbacks as well.
Extra-layer
The major minus is that it forms an extra layer on the arm that can cause discomfort in hot summers. For example, leather guards can cause excessive sweating, making it bad for those with skin allergies.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
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Material: The main type of material used in manufacturing the arm guard.
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Length and Width: Length allows you to see how far up your arm the guard will reach, while width indicates the coverage around your arm.
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Strap System: The strap system secures the guard to your arm. This is generally through the use of velcro or buckled straps.
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Coverage: How much of the arm the guard covers. Full length is intended to cover from wrist to elbow. Half length covers a smaller section of the arm.
Review of the Best Archery Arm Guards
To help you make your decision, the following are reviews of some of the best archery arm guards available today.
Best Overall: SAS 8’’ With 3-Strap Buckles
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PROS
- Buckles Can Be Put On and Taken Off Very Easily
- The Soft Foam Prevents Scratches and Abrasions
- Vents Provide Proper Air-Flow and Keep Your Arm Cool
- Extremely Lightweight, Durable, and Comfortable
- Three Straps Make It Ideal For Most Average-Sized Women and Men
CONS
- The SAS May Not Cover Your Arm Completely
- Materials Are a Bit Stiff and Not Entirely Flexible
- Might Not Fit Small or Overly Large People
What Recent Buyers ReportMost people who invested in this product agree that it is an amazing arm guard. Buyers were particularly impressed by its quality, price, and the comfort it offers. However, some users felt that it was a bit stiff to use and would have preferred the unit to be a bit longer. Why it Stands Out to UsBeing the best unit on our list, there are quite a few things we liked about the SAS. Firstly, it is extremely easy to use. It features a very simple design and functionality, and can even be used by beginners. Its vented design is another feature which makes it worthy of a mention. The adequate ventilation keeps your arm cool, preventing your arm from sweating.Who Will Use This MostSince this unit measures eight inches, it is suitable for most average sized women and men. However, this arm guard might not be suitable for beginners because it is rather short. If you’ve just taken up archery, it is advisable to choose a slightly longer guard. What Could Be Improved and WhyAlthough this unit received mostly positive reviews, there are some things which could be improved. The material used could be a bit more comfortable, so that it does not irritate the skin during extended use. It could also be designed to be a little less stiff to ensure easier wrist movement.Bottom LineThe SAS Arm Guard certainly deserves to be the best unit on our list. Its quick buckle adjustment system makes it easy to use, while the vented design keeps your arm cool and protected. However, the short length might make it unsuitable for beginners.
Product Specs
Material:
Nylon
Length and Width:
8″ x 3″
Strap System:
Quick Buckles Adjustment System
Coverage:
Full-length
Runner-up: Allen Company Mesh
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PROS
- Cheaper Than Other Models
- Extremely Flexible and Lightweight
- The Mesh Provides Excellent Protection From the Bow
- Strap Adjustment System Ensures a Comfortable Fit
- Ergonomic Design Which is Available in a Variety of Colors
CONS
- Will Not Fit Adults
- Tends to Loosen Over Time
- Lacks Proper Circulation and is Not Very Breathable
What Recent Buyers ReportMost buyers who purchased this product agree that it is an absolute hit! Users were particularly impressed by the unit’s quality and the protection it offers. They also appreciated the soft and flexible fabric and were surprised to find how lightweight it is.Why it Stands Out to UsOne reason why the Allen Company Mesh stands out to us is because of how easy it is to use. The unit is designed with two straps, which are extremely easy to adjust. In fact, you can tighten and loosen the strap by using only one hand. As a result, you don’t have to take your concentration off the target while adjusting it.Who Will Use This MostThis product is specifically designed for amateur and beginner archers and is one of the best youth archery arm guards available today. On younger shooters, it is able to cover the arm from the elbow to the wrist, ensuring excellent protection from the string.What Could Be Improved and WhyOne thing which could be improved is the design of the straps. According to some reviews, the straps tend to loosen as you move around and require constant adjustment, which can be an inconvenience. If this matter is solved, this model will surely become everyone’s favorite!Bottom LinePerfect for beginners and younger archers, the Allen Company Mesh is a close second. Its high-quality design ensures protection, while the ergonomic strap adjustment system makes it easy to use. However, the strap requires constant adjustment, which might prove to be a hindrance for some.
Product Specs
Material:
Blend
Length and Width:
8″ x.50″
Strap System:
Quick Buckles Adjustment System
Coverage:
Half-Length
Best for the Money: Santu Cowhide
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PROS
- Less Expensive Than Other Leather Models
- Air Holes Prevent Sweating and Keep Your Arm Cool
- Provides Excellent Protection From the Biceps to the Wrist
- High-Quality Cowhide Construction Ensures Durability and Longevity
- Ideal for Both Beginners and Moderately Skilled Archers
CONS
- Straps Tend to Come Loose Quickly
- Straps Might Not Have a Snug Fit With Clothing
- Putting the Straps On and Off Might Take Up a Bit of Time
What Recent Buyers ReportMost recent buyers absolutely loved the product and stated that it was worth every penny. They also recommended it to other potential buyers. They were particularly impressed by the unit’s length and the level of protection it offers. However, some users felt that the band was too stiff and did not provide enough flexibility.Why it Stands Out to UsWhat we liked best about this arm guard is its ventilation system. Designed with three vent holes, the unit provides excellent airflow and keeps your arm cool. The elbow joint area also has dotted vents, which further makes it more ventilated and comfortable. Hence, the unit can be used comfortably, even in hot, humid weather.Who Will Use This MostThe Santu Cowhide is relatively long, making it perfect for both novice and moderately skilled shooters and archers. However, the size might prove to be a hindrance for more advanced archers. What Could Be Improved and WhyOne thing which could be improved is the design of the straps. Santu could use reinforcements to ensure that the straps do not loosen. Moreover, clips could also be attached so that the user can put them on and off quickly and easily. Bottom LineTo put it simply, Santu Cowhide offers the best value for money and certainly deserves a place on our list. The unit is ideal for both novice and skilled archers and is more durable and cheaper than other models. It is surely worth every penny!
Product Specs
Material:
Cowhide
Length and Width:
8.6″ x 3.34″
Strap System:
Adjustable strap
Coverage:
Full-Length
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Best for Women: Bohning Archery – SLIP-ON
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PROS
- Available in Four Different Sizes
- High-Quality Construction Ensures Durability and Longevity
- Perfect for Hunting to Hold Back Bulky Sleeves
- Does Not Need to be Adjusted, Saving Time and Energy
- Extremely Easy to Use and Ensures a Comfortable Fit
CONS
- The Stitching Might Come Undone
- Does Not Provide as Much Protection as the Traditional Arm guard
What Recent Buyers ReportMost people who purchased this product agree that it is a great fit and were surprised by how comfortable it is to use. However, some users felt that the rubber strip is too soft and small, and does not offer enough protection. Why it Stands Out to UsWe particularly loved the Bohning Archery – Slip on because it is extremely easy to use. It does not have any straps, loops, or clips, so it does not have to be readjusted after every few shots. You just need to slip it on at the beginning of your session and take it off once your session ends. Who Will Use This MostDue to its small size, this model is the ideal option for women and children. But since it does not offer much protection and coverage, it might not be suitable for a beginner. It is perfect for more experienced users who know exactly where the string will strike.What Could Be Improved and WhyThe rubber strip could be designed to be more durable and wide to ensure proper coverage and protection. The stitching could also be improved so that the sleeve is not left with large holes. If these matters are looked upon, then the Slip-On will surely become every woman’s go-to armguard!Bottom LineThe Bohning Archery – Slip-On is a comfortable unit which provides a snug fit. Its sleek compression-fit nylon and high-quality design makes it the perfect choice for women. However, the rubber strip is too thin and might not offer proper protection from string slaps.
Product Specs
Material:
Nylon
Length and Width:
10.75″ x 3.75″
Strap System:
Slip-on
Coverage:
Half-Length
Best Traditional Arm Guard: ArcheryMax Leather
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PROS
- Extremely Comfortable to Use
- Available in Both Right-Handed and Left-Handed Models
- Offers Excellent Protection From String Slaps and Prevents Bruises
- High-Quality Construction Ensures Durability, Reliability, and Longevity
- Flexible and Will Not Hinder Your Mobility During Your Game
CONS
- The Laces Can Be a Bit Hard to Lace Up
- Might Get a Bit Uncomfortable Around the Thumb
- Limited Ventilation and Gets Hot Pretty Fast
What Recent Buyers ReportMost people who purchased this unit were impressed by the level of comfort and protection it offers. They also stated that it fit perfectly and recommended it to other buyers as well. However, some buyers did not like the fact that there is no way to tie or lock it in place. Why it Stands Out to Us
One reason why we like this ArcheryMax model is its cool, traditional look. This archery glove covers your entire forearm, instead of just the inside, while also protecting the palm of your hand. Moreover, the ArcheryMax Archery Shooting Glove is a lace up glove, allowing you to tighten it to your desired preference and comfort. Who Will Use This MostThe ArcheryMax Leather is the perfect choice for both beginners and more experienced archers. The durable leather provides excellent protection from string slaps, preventing any bruises and welts.What Could Be Improved and WhyThough this product has mostly received positive reviews, there are a couple of things which could be improved. The leather around the thumb should be made from a stiffer hide to ensure proper protection. If the lace is replaced with an elastic speed-lace, this unit will surely become everyone’s favorite! Bottom Line
All in all, the ArcheryMax Leather is a comfortable model which provides excellent protection. Its ergonomic design further allows you to adjust the width to your desired preference. However, the leather around the thumb is a bit thin, and the laces can be a bit difficult to tie.
Product Specs
Material:
Cow Leather
Length and Width:
12.6″ x 4.21″
Strap System:
Lace-up
Coverage:
Full Length
Best Leather Arm Guard: Krayney Leather 3-Strap
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PROS
- Extremely Soft and Comfortable to Use
- Extremely Easy to Slip On and Off Once You Get it Adjusted
- Durable Leather Construction Ensures Reliability and Longevity
- Ideal For Shooting, Hunting, and Other Outdoor Activities
- Offers Excellent Protection From String Slaps, Preventing Bruises and Scratches
CONS
- You Might Feel the String Slap a Bit
- The Model May Be a Bit Small For Some Children
What Recent Buyers ReportAlmost all of the people who invested in this unit were extremely satisfied with their purchase and stated that they would not hesitate to buy it again. Users were particularly impressed by the level of protection it offers and how well it fits on the arm. Why it Stands Out to UsThe Krayney’s high-quality leather construction is what makes it worthy of a mention on our list. The fabric is extremely soft and durable, making it comfortable to use. No matter which side you use, this product will always protect your forearm from string slaps.Who Will Use This MostThe Krayney Leather 3-Strap is the perfect option for both beginners and more skilled archers and hunters. Since it protects your forearm from bruises, welts, and scratches, this unit is perfect for shooting, hunting, and other outdoor activities. What Could Be Improved and WhyThis product has received highly positive reviews, and customers have very few complaints. However, some users reported that the straps were of poor quality and broke easily. If the manufacturers focus on this issue, then this model will surely become everyone’s favorite! Bottom LineTo put it simply, the Krayney Leather 3-Strap Arm Guard is the best leather model available today and surely deserves a place on our list. Its high-quality construction ensures durability, while the leather provides excellent protection from string slaps. However, the straps could be of better quality.
Product Specs
Material:
Leather
Length and Width:
8″ x 5.5″
Strap System:
Adjustable strap
Coverage:
Full Length
Best Archery Sleeve Arm Guard: Sportsman’s Outdoor Products Tarantula Sleeve Wrap
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PROS
- One size easily fits all
- Tough design that is easy to slip on
- Multiple elastic straps for a secure fit
- Lightweight and a low-profile appearance
- Manufactured from high-end materials to mark reliability
CONS
- Straps become weary over time
- A few complaints of a buckle being too hard
What Recent Buyers Report
Users are very happy with the performance of the Tarantula Sleeve Wrap. They report that the design is not only user-friendly but lightweight as well. You don’t feel any inconvenience as it fits your arm perfectly. Moreover, it keeps your clothes away from bowstring in order to ensure a clean shot. There is no question on the quality as well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A great arm guard from a reliable brand, this Tarantula sleeve wrap is long enough and incorporates three buckles to provide a secure fit. It is extremely lightweight and very easy to adjust according to the size of your arm. While it protects your arm, it keeps the clothes away from the bowstring to let you shoot the target flawlessly.
Bottom Line
An extraordinary model with quality features, this tends to protect your arm and reduces the risk of pain or injury. Whether you are skinny or big-boned, the Tarantula Sleeve Wrap fits perfectly, thanks to the incorporation of 3 adjustable buckles. All in all, it is built for all-day comfort.
Product Specs
Length and Width:
8″ x 5.25″
Strap System:
Quick Buckles Adjustment System
Coverage:
Full Length
Best Archery Full-Length Arm Guard: Allen Company 4-Strap
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PROS
- A comfortable and user-friendly model
- Adjustable buckles to easily fit everyone
- Lightweight design is extremely portable
- Flexible and therefore, very easy to adjust
- Composed of reliable materials to make it durable
CONS
- Suitable for small build
- A few concerns over customer support
What Recent Buyers Report
This guard has impressed its customers with high-end performance. They love the quality and design of this model. The most loved feature is the adjustable size that allows it to fit almost everyone. Moreover, it is lightweight, and therefore, you can continue practicing shooting without feeling any discomfort all day long.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Allen Company arm guard mainly stands out to us for exhibiting a durable build. It features a lightweight design that is flexible as well. There are adjustable straps that not only offer a perfect fit but also make the archery session quite safe for you. Moreover, it is long enough to provide maximum coverage.
Bottom Line
A powerhouse of features, this has got everything you are looking for. Whether we talk about the top-notch construction or the lightweight design, this model won’t disappoint you ever. You can easily wear it and adjust it with just one hand to keep your archery game up.
Product Specs
Material:
Blend
Length and Width:
12″ x 3.5″
Strap System:
Quick Buckles Adjustment System
Coverage:
Full Length
Best Archery Arm Guard Medieval: Huntingdoor Arm Guard
PROS
- Offers great coverage for your arm
- Detailed sewing to enhance the quality
- Adjustable laces to keep the guard in place
- Lightweight and very convenient to carry around
- Composed of high-end leather to mark durability
CONS
- Not suitable for large forearms
- Might cause too much sweating
What Recent Buyers Report
This has earned great ratings from its users. According to them, the leather construction is just top-notch. It has a stylish appearance and offers a perfect fit for everyone. You can wear it to ace your archery sessions with maximum comfort and safety. Moreover, the adjustable laces help you to adjust it according to your arm size.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This Huntingdoor product makes its way to our list for featuring reliable leather construction that is not only durable but feels soft against the skin. It comes with adjustable laces that keep it in place and offers a secure fit. The design is amazingly lightweight and metal embellished to provide an appealing appearance.
Bottom Line
One of the finest arm guards out there, this model is known for its quality, durability, and tremendous versatility. It is perfect for all-around usage and does a marvelous job of keeping your arms protected. Moreover, this is great if you are looking for quality and style in a single model.
Product Specs
Material:
Leather
Length and Width:
9.8″ x 8″
Strap System:
Lace-up
Coverage:
Full Length
Best for Youth: Elong Archery Arm Guards
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PROS
- Available in a Wide Variety of Colors
- Adjustable Straps Make it Extremely Easy to Use
- Elong Outdoors Offers Excellent Customer Service
- Provides Excellent Protection From String Slaps
- Extremely Lightweight and Comfortable, Making it Easy to Carry
CONS
- The Straps Tend to Loosen After Every Few Shots
- Might Be a Bit Small for Some Children
What Recent Buyers ReportMost people who purchased this product were extremely satisfied with its quality and durability. Buyers were particularly impressed by the level of protection it offered. They also reported that their children loved the different colors. However, some users felt that the unit was too small for their children.Why it Stands Out to UsThe unit’s ergonomic design is what makes it the best youth arm guard. Manufactured with high-quality silicon rubber and a security armband, this model is lightweight and extremely easy to carry. It is also vented, which provides proper airflow, prevents sweating, and makes it comfortable to use in hot, humid weather.Who Will Use This MostSince it is specifically designed for youths, the Elong Archery Arm Guard is the ideal choice for children and younger archers. It fits small hands perfectly and offers excellent protection from the bowstring. What Could Be Improved and WhyAlthough this product has received mostly positive reviews, there are a few things which could be improved. The straps could be designed to stay tight so that they do not come loose after every few shots. The size of the unit could also be increased so that this model becomes the perfect choice for every child.Bottom LineThe Elong Archery Arm Guard is the perfect model for children and younger archers, and certainly deserves a place on our list. It is extremely comfortable to use and protects your child from string slaps. However, the straps tend to loosen and require constant adjustment.
Product Specs
Material:
Rubber
Length and Width:
8.5″ x 2.56″(Large Size)
Strap System:
Adjustable Strap
Coverage:
Half-Length
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Aspects to Consider Before Buying
Choosing an arm guard isn’t just about picking the most popular one. It is important that you purchase a model which is suitable for you. The following are some things you should consider before making your decision:
Measurement
Make sure you measure the length of your arm to get the required width and length. This helps ensure that the unit you choose has a comfortable fit. It is also advisable to purchase a model which is easy to adjust so that it doesn’t get too loose or tight.
Additional Accessories
You might want extra accessories, along with the basic arm guard. Finger tabs and shirt guards are some of the accessories which prevent the string from coming into contact with your clothes.
Durability and Strength
Make sure that the guard you choose is long-lasting and is able to withstand any weather condition. Arm guards are designed with different materials which can handle rain, sun exposure, drops, and scratches.
Type of Arm Guard
Some of the different types of arm guards include leather arm guards, cowhide arm guards, and arm guards constructed with composite materials. Make sure you choose one which best suits your needs.
Ease-of-Use
Archery is all about consistency and focus. You have to put on and take off the arm guard very quickly without losing your focus on the targets. Some models are designed with straps and clip systems which make the entire process simple and easy.
Types of Archery Arm Guards
There are two types of archery arm guards available on the market today, and they include:
Full-Length
Full-length arm guards are more suitable for beginners; however, professionals can also use this type of guard. This model covers your arm from the biceps to the wrist, ensuring protection from string slaps. But sometimes, they can be a bit uncomfortable.
Half-Length or Standard
A standard arm guard is more suitable for archers who are more skilled and know how to rotate their elbows when shooting. This model is attached to the forearm and keeps your arm away from the bowstring. Furthermore, it is more flexible and comfortable for your wrist.
Conclusion
An arm guard is an essential piece of equipment which protects your arm from bruises and scratches. However, choosing the best one is an extremely difficult task. For us, the SAS 8’’ Arm Guard is the best model available on the market today. But make sure you go through all the reviews to find the one which best suits your needs!
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People Also Ask
No doubt, archery is a wonderful sport; however, it might lead to some pain and discomfort. Having an arm guard on board not only enhances your archery performance but also reduces the pain. While it is one of the most essential archery accessories, people have their doubts. This section aims to answer some of the frequently asked queries of people to help them make the right choice.
How Much Does An Armor Arm Guard Weigh?
The estimated weight of a typical guard lies around 2-3 kg. It is usually 8-10 inches long in order to provide maximum coverage and protection to the arm. The weight is distributed on the whole body to allow free movement.
How to Put On An Archery Arm Guard?
Once you have the right arm guard for yourself, it’s time to put it on. Simply place it on top of your arm and adjust the straps with your other hand to have a secure fit. This will keep it in a stable position regardless of any movement during shooting.