Forearm pads are used for protection in sports such as football, mountain biking, and martial arts. Hard shell pads are made of plastic and are good for downhill mountain biking, while soft pads are better for soccer players. Soft pads usually feature a sleeve that slips over the forearm and come in different styles. Some models are specific to certain sports, such as hockey. Choose a pad that is lightweight and won’t limit mobility.
The first decision you will need to make when choosing which forearm pads will work best for you is what you will use these pads for. These pads are often used by football players to protect their forearms, particularly linemen who will collide with other players frequently. Some types of mountain bikers may use forearm pads, as can people who engage in karate sparring or other forms of martial arts. Determine your protection needs before you buy, and don’t forget to think about flexibility. Some pads will extend over the wrist and hand, limiting mobility.
The two basic types of forearm pads are hard shell pads and soft pads. Hard forearm pads are usually made of plastic and are designed to withstand impact from hard objects. They can be secured to the forearm with hook and loop straps, or with sleeves that slip over the arms. These forearm pads are a good choice for downhill mountain bikers and any other athlete who is at risk of colliding with hard objects. They are not the best choice for soccer players, as these types of pads are likely to be illegal for use in games; rigid plastic can injure another player, so soccer players will generally need soft pads.
Soft forearm pads usually feature a sleeve that slips over the forearm. One side of this sleeve features thick padding that protects the forearms from impact during sports activity. When choosing between these types of forearm pads, you’ll need to decide if you want a forearm pad that runs from the elbow to the wrist, or if you want a pad that runs from the elbow to the knuckles of the hand. The latter style may limit some hand and arm mobility, although some feature holes in the padding at the wrist to allow for greater mobility. Try to choose a pad that is lightweight and won’t limit your mobility too much during sporting events.
Some models of forearm pads are specific for each sport. Hockey pads, for example, feature a rigid exterior with a softer lining. The pad typically runs from the forearm near the wrist to the elbow to the upper arm, and is often articulated for flexibility at the elbow. The pad is secured in place with hook and loop straps. If you participate in a sport that features pads specifically designed for that sport, be sure to research the different models available within your budget and needs.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
