Best Archery Arm Guards
An arm guard is one of the most important pieces of protective equipment in archery. It is wrapped around the forearm gripping the bow to protect the archer from string slap, which is the snapback of the drawstring after it’s released. It also keeps sleeves out of the way.
What are archery arm guards used for?
An arm guard, sometimes called a bracer, protects the arm from getting burned by the snapback of the drawstring after release. It also helps to keep sleeves or clothing out of the way. They are usually made of leather or plastic and wrap around the forearm of the non-dominant hand that grips the bow. Regardless of skill level, all archers should wear an arm guard to protect them, especially as they’re still learning the proper form.
Arm Guard Sizes
Arm guards should be fitted snug to the forearm, extending from the archer’s wrist to elbow. Many arm guards are one-size-fits-all, but others may come in small, medium, or large sizes. A small is about 10 inches from wrist to elbow, a medium is 11 inches, and a large is 12 inches. Some arm guards have adjustable straps to fit your forearms, while others are slipped on with elastics. Arm guards with straps may need to be readjusted throughout an archery session.
Arm Guard Materials
The material an archer chooses will help determine the feel and snugness of the arm guard. They’re most commonly made of leather, plastic, or suede. Some arm guards come with cushioning, while the material is simple and thin for others. The adjustable straps that wrap around the forearm will most commonly come together with buckles or velcro. Slip-on arm guards will have elastic straps to hold them in place.
What are the best archery arm guards?
- SAS 7.5” Leather Suede Arm Guard
- KRATARC Archery Arm Guard
- Nachvorn Shooting Archery Arm Guard
- Bohning Archery Slip-On Arm Guard
- Tophunter Archery Arm Guard
- Perogen Archery Arm Guard
- Bear Archery Adjustable Cordura Arm Guard
- ArcheryMax Handmade Leather Arm Guard
- Prowithlin Archery Arm Guard
- Windfulogo PU Leather Archery Arm Guard
1. SAS 7.5” Leather Suede Arm Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $14.99
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Material: Suede
- Brand: Southland Archery Supply
The Southland Archery Supply arm guard is an all-around winner, with comfort, durability, and quick and convenient adjustable straps. It’s made of brown suede that is ventilated and lightweight to keep the archer from getting uncomfortable, with three elastic straps and easy-to-use adjustable clip-in buckles. It bends easily and comfortably with the arm, allowing full-range motion while providing great protection.
2. KRATARC Archery Arm Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $9.90
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Material: Fabric
- Brand: KRATARC
The KRATARC arm guard is a popular, reliable option at an affordable price. It’s lightweight and well ventilated, all the while offering sturdy protection and padding against the drawstring. It shields the inner forearm completely, with three clip-in adjustable straps holding it in place. The clip-in buckles make it especially convenient, and the arm guard can endure a lot of string slap and remain as effective as it was when first purchased.
3. Nachvorn Shooting Archery Arm Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $14.99
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Material: Leather
- Brand: Nachvorn
The Nachvorn shooting archery arm guard is an excellent choice for archers who want the look of leather with the convenience of a slip-on. It’s made of sturdy brown leather and elastic laces on the bottom of the arm guard, allowing it to stretch over the bow arm and stay in place. It’s very comfortable and convenient with a classic design, although some have found that the elastic loosens over time and with excessive use.
4. Bohning Archery Slip-On Arm Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $13.85-$28.28
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Material: Aluminum
- Brand: Bohning
The Bohning arm guard is a great slip-on option with conveniently added protection. It’s made of comfortable stretch material with a thin aluminum bar embedded in the fabric to protect your bow arm. The aluminum shield makes it ideal for archers who bruise easily yet still want an otherwise thin-fabric slip-on design. The simple design is modern and sleek, and it’s easy to get on and keep in place.
5. Tophunter Archery Arm Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $22.99
- Rating: 4.3/5
- Material: Leather
- Brand: Tophunter
The Tophunter is a full-coverage leather arm guard with adjustable laces and a uniquely stylish design. It’s cushioned but lightweight, with gold embellishments to jazz up the fabric. It comes with an optional glove that archers can wear if they desire hand protection as well. The leather comes in all black, black and red, or black and tan. The full coverage makes it especially great for beginners.
6. Perogen Archery Arm Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $8.99
- Rating: 5/5
- Material: Poly-mesh
- Brand: Peogren
The Perogen archery arm guard is a good option for both adults and children. It’s made of a soft poly-mesh material, which is on the thicker side for added protection. It comes with adjustable straps for a comfortable fit and typically stays in place well. The arm guard as a whole does not slip from the spot on your forearm. It’s modest size and light weight make it especially suitable for children or teenagers.
7. Bear Archery Adjustable Cordura Arm Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $9.99-$12.99
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Material: Cordura
- Brand: Bear Archery
The Bear Archery arm guard is a simple but reliable design. Made of Cordura, it’s very comfortable and lightweight, covering the whole inner wrist of the forearm with ample width. Adjustable velcro straps make it easy to put on, and the arm guard stays securely in place without readjustment. It may not be the flashiest design, but it’s convenient and provides great results.
8. ArcheryMax Handmade Leather Arm Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $29.99
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Material: Leather
- Brand: ArcheryMax
The Archerymax handmade arm guard is rustic and comfortable, covering your whole forearm and offering some hand protection. Unlike most arm guards that can fit both arms, the Archerymax is made specifically for either the right or left bow arm. The leather is relatively thin and comes in black and brown. It can be a bit small for those with larger forearms, particularly in men. Some archers also find that the laces loosen and have to be readjusted after a few shots.
9. Prowithlin Archery Arm Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $8.99
- Rating: 4.3/5
- Material: Leather
- Brand: Prowithlin
For those who like leather and comfort, the Prowithlin arm guard is a perfect option. Its design is ventilated and built to be breathable, with an athletic mesh on the inside, making it ideal for hot weather. This model comes in black or tan, with simple buckle straps for adjustment. It’s perfect for someone looking for a more lightweight option, but those who want coverage of the whole forearm should look elsewhere.
10. Windfulogo PU Leather Archery Arm Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $21.99
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Material: Synthetic leather
- Brand: Windfulogo
The Windfulogo PU leather arm guard is a good choice for anyone who wants a little style in their next archery session or for those who prefer faux leather. It has sleek-looking lace-ups on the side and a strap worn over the thumb for hand protection. The material is polyurethane synthetic leather, with options in black or brown. While it provides a little extra cushioning, some find the material wears a bit after regular use, particularly on the thumb strap.
FAQ
How do you know what size archery arm guard you need?
Since “string slap” is one of the most common injuries in archery, purchasing an arm guard with ample protection is crucial for archers of any level. Typically, standard archery arm guards will be roughly 7-8 inches in length. A full-length guard will cover more of the arm and be roughly 10-12 inches in length. You should make sure that the arm guard covers the entirety of your forearm to ensure proper fit. Youth sizes are also available for most versions of arm guards in both standard and full-length categories.
Is an arm guard necessary for archery?
Technically speaking, arm guards are not required in order to participate in archery. However, arm guards are an extremely useful accessory that can make your archery experience more comfortable. Arm guards help to keep loose-fitting clothing out of the way by restraining them to your arm while also protecting your arm from the snap of the bowstring when shooting an arrow. Members of the archery community refer to this snap as a bowstring slap. A good majority of the minor injuries one might encounter are dealt to the arms, and most can be protected against by purchasing protective gear like an arm guard.
What aspects should I look for that make a good archery arm guard?
There are several qualities that make for an excellent archery arm guard. Firstly, the arm guard should be comfortable, breathable, and the proper size for your arm. Choosing a brand that uses high-quality, lightweight materials will provide the best comfort. Arm guards should also be extremely durable to ensure safety and limit the frequency of buying replacements. With so many options available, it is important to choose a style you like since you will be wearing this piece of equipment frequently.