There is no doubt you have seen them on runners and other athletes. Compression arm sleeves, often in bright colors, running from just below their shoulder to their wrist. But why do runners wear arm sleeves? It might surprise you to know that there are more than a few reasons. And below we’ll break down what running arm sleeves are for and what brands we recommend.
Why Do Runners Wear Arm Sleeves?
What are running arm sleeves for? Below are some of the most common reasons why runners wear arm sleeves.
Lightweight Base Layer
With races and training runs often starting early on cool mornings. Running can be a battle between being cold, then hot, then cold, then hot again. Finding the right layers to keep your body regulated can be hard and arm sleeves are a great way to keep yourself warm until your body warms up.
Easy to Adjust/Remove While Running
As mentioned above, running can be a constant challenge between being hot and cold. Arms sleeves allow you to adjust the level of warmth needed quickly and easily while running. Just pull them down, or up, or take them off as needed.
Compression
With the majority of the blood in your body going to support the intense physical stress your legs are under. On long runs your forearms can often start to get sore or even cramp due to circulation. Compression sleeves are proven to help increase circulation and can help reduce this forearm soreness during long runs.
Sun / UV Protection
We all know how important sun protection is while running. And on sunny days your arms get a lot of sun while out putting in miles. Rather than using copious amounts of suntan lotion every day, most compression arm sleeves provide UV protection from the sun.
They Keep You Cool
In warmer weather, once you start sweating, arms sleeves will actually help cool you down. The sleeves help maintain the level of moisture on your skin, providing an increased cooling effect from your sweat.
Style points
That’s right. There is no question that runners love to wear bright colors and match their socks to everything. Arm sleeves are another way for people to show off their personality and stand out from the crowd. You will find that they make sleeves in every color and pattern under the run.
How to Choose Running Arm Sleeves
There are a lot of options when it comes to picking running arm sleeves. And there can be a drastic difference in price depending on the brand you are looking at. Ranging anywhere from $12 for 4 pairs to $30 for one pair. Typically the biggest difference between cheaper and higher end sleeves will be the material thickness and elastic durability over time.
