10 Best Arm Sleeves: Sun Protection and Compression Arm Sleeves
Whether we want to accept it or not, a lot of us take our arms for granted. But here at Runnerclick.com, we are always looking for the best gear from head to toe to advance your active lifestyle. We did our research so you can do less and found some of the best compression arm sleeves and sun protection arm sleeves available for your munitions.
We have arranged a current lineup based on our extensive research. Bear in mind that a lot of these running sleeves can be also used for other sports. So this top arm sleeves countdown is for runners and other athletes and gym-goers.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
The material is always an important factor to consider in all running attire because it can make or break your workout. Make sure to look for arm sleeves that are made of moisture-wicking materials, are breathable, and can protect you from harmful UV rays. Make sure you research materials if you are looking for the best UV arm sleeves.
While not all of the sleeves on this list provide UV protection, a lot of them do. If this is something you want then make sure you check the description and ensure that the sleeves offer UV protection. Also, if you want something that is machine washable, there are some out there that you can stick in the washer. Just make sure the material your sleeves are made won't get ruined in the wash and remember to air dry it if you need to.
Comfort
The most comfortable arms sleeves provide a secure fit that will treat and prevent injuries and won’t move around while you are wearing them. Some of these arm sleeves provide different levels of compression and, if you have never used compression sleeves, then you may not like some of the ones that offer maximum compression.
Some sleeves offer different levels of support while others are cushioned. You will also find that some compression sleeves also offer special compression mapping to help speed up your recovery. Furthermore, some sleeves are more breathable or moisture-wicking than others while others offer more flexibility and versatility.
In the end, you need to get something that fits your comfort needs. Make sure to consider your needs and comfort preferences when making your decision.
Weight
Lightweight and moisture-wicking arm sleeves will ensure your blood keeps flowing without weighing you down or making you uncomfortable. Furthermore, heavier arm sleeves will create tension on your muscles that can make your workout more difficult.
When we looked at the weight we also considered how moisture-wicking and sweat-wicking the sleeves were. If they don't offer these features then you will find that the sleeves will begin to weigh more as the sweat builds up while you are wearing them. The last thing you want is to be bogged down by heavy sleeves--and you definitely don't want to deal with the chafing and blisters that come with them--so make sure to look for moisture-wicking properties if you want to make sure you don't have any weight issues.
Value
We know everyone has a budget so we always consider the cost and value of each product we place on our list. You will find that we include options for all budget and, as usual, we made sure each product is worth your hard earned money. If you want something with a lot of compression, then you are going to find that your running arm sleeves will be more expensive than others. Make sure to set a budget before narrowing down your top choices.
Once you do that make sure to make a list of what you need from your running sleeves--if you want more compression you will probably end up spending more money, so if you don't need it you shouldn't spend the extra money. In the end, the values has to do with what you get from the product so make sure to pick the right one.
Breathability
Breathability allows the arm sleeve to keep you cool, and dry during your workouts–no matter how much you sweat. Make sure to look for breathable, anti-microbial, and odor-resistant sleeves to get the best bang for your buck.
We always look at breathability if it is something you are wearing in any way, shape, or form because it is important to avoid chafing and blisters at all costs. They can lead to discomfort and prevent you from enjoying your runs or workouts--and this is no different when it comes to getting sleeves that are breathable enough for your needs. If you know you sweat excessively then you may want to make sure that you get the most breathable arm sleeves you can find that fit your needs.
Our Top 10 Best Arm Sleeves
1. Rockay Ignite
Rockay, a brand we know for socks up to this point, lands itself at the top of our list with their brand new running arm sleeve they named Ignite. As far as arm sleeves go, the use and function of each one remains pretty much the same, but this company has a little more to their program. Their new running arm sleeves are just like their socks in one way, they are all well made using recycled nylon that is recovered from our planet's oceans and landfills.
Read moreKey Features
As far as support goes, these have it. The durability of Rockay's Ignite arm sleeves seems to made to maintain compression and support for quite a while. Obviously the results vary per person, but the reduced recovery time and aid to sore muscles are definitely what you can expect from these. And that one thing we have to consider with just about all our running gear, the odor, is kept well under control. Like Rockay's socks, these sleeves are also treated with Polygiene, which fights odor causing bacteria.
Comfort
We touched on the quality that has a lot to do with their overall comfortability. The seamless construction eliminates any stitching or irritating spots that will drive you nuts on a long run. The sleeves are also super breathable, translating to better moisture control and less chance of sliding down. Another plus is that they can still be used to help keep your arms warm as well.
Cost and Value
We think you are definitely getting what you pay for with these. Yes they do cost a little more, but they are made to last. Plus they come with the added feature of being treated with Polygiene to help resist bacteria and odor. And, the big one for us here is what goes into manufacturing the sleeves. The fact that, if even a small part, waste is being removed from the oceans and landfills in order to make these, it's a good thing!
2. Bucwild
These high performing arm sleeves come in lots of color and style options for you to choose from. They are one of the best out there and an excellent option for all athletes looking for a good arm sleeve.
Read moreMaterial
These are sold in a pair and offer optimal compression. They are made of high-quality material--80% Polyester and 20% Lycra to be precise. They are moisture-wicking and provide you with a cooling effect in the summer and a warming effect in the winter.
Comfort
They provide a secure fit thank to the no-slip silicone strip they employ. They are versatile enough to use for a variety of sports and come in several color and size options to choose from.
Cost and Value
These are sold in a pair and come at a great price. The high-quality durable material increases their value.
3. VIPER Compression
Made for all-day use, the VIPER Compression Arm Sleeve adds just enough pressure to get the blood flowing while keeping you dry from sweat. It has a non-slip silicone grip strip upper lining and is available in numerous sizes making it a good pick for pretty much anyone.
VIPER also backs their products with a 100% Lifetime Money Back Guarantee. You won't have to worry about getting a bad product; if it isn't for you, then just send it back, whenever.
Read moreKey Features
Hidden inside the top part of the VIPER Compression Arm Sleeve is a silicone strip that prevents it from slipping or rolling down. This allows you to pay more attention to what you're doing than bothering with the pesky roll down nonsense.
The Dual-Layer TruCore material guarantees softness and warmth while wicking away sweat from the skin, keeping you impressively dry. VIPER also assures their TruCore will protect and stay flexible, maintaining its elasticity no matter how many washes it gets.
Comfort
VIPER Compression arm sleeves have double hemmed seams, which offers more compression support, preventing fatigue as long as possible. More compression support means better blood circulation so you can keep those muscles fed and energized.
Furthermore, TruCore’s soft, flexible material covers the whole arm, boosting muscles and elbow joint mobility while reducing soreness before and after a workout.
Value
VIPER Compression Arm Sleeve has insured durability, elasticity, fit, everything. They are only sold on the solo, but a seriously great addition to the post-workout arsenal. Even if you go deeper in the pocket for a set, you won't be digging into the trust fund and your arms are going to feel great, both of them.
Moreover, they are some of the best arm compression sleeves for those who suffer from low blood circulation caused by diabetes or other circulatory issues.
4. Elixir
While these are the most affordable options on our list that doesn't mean they aren't as effective. These are seamless and come in lots of color options to choose from.
Read moreBreathability
This option keeps you cool and dry and prevents chafing and blisters thanks to their seamless construction.
Material and Construction
They are constructed of high-quality performance material that will wick away sweat and dry quickly. They also feature a 3D weave design for optimal comfort levels.
Cost and Value
The sleeve is highly affordable and sold in a pair with a highly-rated material finish.
5. Aegend
The Aegend Unisex Arm warming Sleeves are made of a stretchy Polyamide and Spandex blend and feature UV protection. This product is sold in pairs. Aegend is one of the best UV protection cooling arm sleeves on the market. Scroll down to read additional info.
Read moreKey Features
The Aegend Unisex Arm warming Sleeves is the only item on the list that states specifically that it is windproof. It has a low profile that can go underneath other clothing unnoticed, which is a handy feature if a user is seeking to wear them underneath other clothing.
Material
It is made of a highly durable and flexible material that maximizes comfort through breathability.
Cost and Value
They are an excellent value, albeit a bit on the expensive side if not on sale.
6. McDavid
Basketball athletes share a common love for McDavid protective gear and their Compression Arm Sleeve is more than just protection, they made a support system for your arms in the simplest of designs.
They keep your arms active as well as help with pain management, aiding you through any muscle, tendonitis or elbow pain.
Read moreKey Features
McDavid has advanced technology built into every fiber of this arm sleeve. Their elastine blended material is lined at the seems with a multithread flatlock compression technology, advancing support and durability throughout the arm sleeve.
They also have hDc® Moisture Management Technology that functions as an AC unit for your arms. Sweat evaporates and air circulates keeping you dry and tempered. They also offer up to 50+ Uv protection for when you take your gaming outdoors.
Comfort
The McDavid Compression Sleeve comes in 4 sizes and is made with an 80% Nylon 20% Spandex material blend. They offer a sizing chart at purchase, adding the security that you will get a customized fit that is flexible, breathable, supportive, and that lasts.
The elastine material is tight and keeps the muscles warm for more fluid mobility. Whether you are wearing an arm sleeve to protect or to aid in healing, you'll feel it working with your body to reduce soreness and fatigue.
Value
Mcdavid made a name for itself making quality gear and we like what they are offering as well. Although they come as a single, buying a pair is pretty a standard Value. You are also sure that you are getting quality protective gear. This s a sure case of quality over quantity and you're getting your money's worth with the McDavid Compression Sleeve
7. CompressionZ
Compression Z is a popular brand when it comes to sports staff with compression. Then, it's not surprising that it had to be included on our list. You can use these compression arm sleeves for many different sports like basketball, baseball, cycling, golf, tennis, running and many more.
Read moreKey features
Since these are not just simple running arm sleeves, they can be used to help fight swelling and inflammation by boosting the circulation of the blood. When you recover after the surgery, this can be also useful and it provides relief to the pain. The sleeve is unisex. The material is waterproof and it’s fantastic for cold weather. It protects your skin from the dirt and sweat of course as it wicks the moisture in a proper way.
Protection
There’s also UV protection from the harmful Sun rays. The movement of the arm isn’t restricted and you’ve got a full range of motion. The material is very lightweight and thin but durable at the same time.
Cost and Value
Like with the previous one, you can buy it for less than 20 dollars. This is considered a good price point for the quality.
8. EvoShield Active DNA
If you are looking to boost your performance the EvoShield Active DNA arm sleeves are a great way to go. They look great and come in several colors to choose from, so take a look and see if they are the right fit for you!
Read moreKey Features
These arm sleeves feature specifically mapped compression patterns that will help you improve your performance and allow your muscles to push themselves. Their 360-degree fabric is really comfortable and allows for full range of motion--and is perfect for your competitions in any sport. So don't hesitate to use these running arm sleeves for other activities.
Breathability
These are made of polyester and spandex so they are lightweight and breathable.
Cost and Value
A little on the pricey side, especially since you have to buy them individually.
9. BeVisible
With classic weave pattern, great compression very good quality material, this sleeve may be your good friend whenever you run or hit the gym. Very bright colors make you more visible as the name of the brand implies. Let’s check it out!
Read moreKey features
The arm sleeve can be very helpful when it comes to improving the time of recovery. When you exercise, your muscles like biceps, triceps, and elbows are really prone to injuries. Special compression boosts the circulation of the blood in your arms and your muscles are able to recover faster.
Size and Design
If you also plan to exercise at the gym, there’s less pain during exercise. There are 3 sizes available. The sleeve stays in place, the anti- slip straps prevent sliding down. There’s SPF 50 to protect your skin from the sun. High-quality fabrics keep them warm when it’s winter but you don’t feel very hot in the summer.
Cost and Value
The price of this arm sleeve is one of the highest on our list. However, it is worth every penny and is of high quality.
10. U Elite
The 2XU Elite compression sleeves are made of high-quality material and provide great support and compression to help speed up your recovery process so you can get back to pushing yourself to the limit.
Read moreKey Features
These arm sleeves provide you with great compression and their muscle containment stamping will help protect you from muscle strain and improve your recovery time. They are moisture wicking and provide you with UV protection to protect you from the sun.
Material and Size
If you want durable arm sleeves, then these are it. They will last you for race after race and all of your training sessions, so you can count on them.
Cost and Value
These are expensive, but they also come with a 12-month guarantee.
Sources
- , What Does a Shooting Sleeve Do?, Blog
- , compression arm sleeve’s benefits that you need to know, Blog
- , WHAT DOES A COMPRESSION ARM SLEEVE DO?, Fitness article
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