Wrist guards are generally good for skateboarding. They provide essential protection against common wrist injuries. This makes them a valuable addition to your skateboard gear.
In this article, we’ll dive into why wrist guards are important, their benefits, potential drawbacks, and how to choose the right pair. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skateboarder, this guide will help you make an informed decision about using wrist guards. Find out now!
Why Wrist Guards are Important
Skateboarding is a thrilling sport, but it’s not without risks. Falls are common and one of the most vulnerable parts of your body during a fall is your wrists. According to various studies, wrist injuries are among the most frequent injuries in skateboarding. They often result in sprains, fractures, or even more severe damage.
Wrist guards are designed to protect your wrists by absorbing the impact of a fall. They distribute the force across a larger area. This reduces the risk of fractures and sprains. It helps you stay safe while you enjoy your ride.
Benefits of Wearing Wrist Guards
Protection Against Fractures and Sprains
Wrist guards feature hard splints that absorb and dissipate the impact forces when you fall. By spreading the shock across a larger area, these guards significantly reduce the likelihood of serious wrist injuries. This protective feature is crucial for skateboarders. They often use their hands to break their falls.
Confidence Boost for Beginners
For those new to skateboarding, the fear of falling can be a major barrier. Wearing wrist guards can boost your confidence by providing an extra layer of protection. This allows you to practice tricks and maneuvers without worrying as much about injuring yourself.
Versatility
Wrist guards aren’t just for skateboarding. They are also beneficial for other sports like inline skating, rollerblading, and snowboarding. Investing in a good pair of wrist guards can provide multi-sport protection. It makes them a versatile addition to your safety gear.
Potential Drawbacks
Movement Restriction
One potential downside of wrist guards is that they can restrict wrist movement. This can make certain skateboarding tricks more challenging. Some skateboarders find that wrist guards limit their ability to perform tricks that require a lot of wrist flexibility.
Comfort Issues
Wrist guards can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially if they are not fitted correctly. Poorly fitting guards can cause chafing or discomfort, and in hot weather, they can make your wrists sweat. However, many modern designs have addressed these issues by using breathable materials and adjustable straps for a better fit.
Types of Wrist Guards
Single Splint vs. Double Splint Designs
There are two main types of wrist guards: single splint and double splint designs. Single splint wrist guards have a hard splint on one side (usually the palm side) to absorb impact. Double splint guards have splints on both the palm and the back of the wrists. It offers more comprehensive protection. But potentially limiting movement more than single splint designs.
Material Considerations
Wrist guards are made from various materials, including ballistic nylon, EVA foam, and ABS plastic. These materials provide durability, comfort, and impact resistance. Ballistic nylon is known for its toughness. On the other hand, EVA foam offers cushioning. ABS plastic splints are lightweight yet strong. It also provides excellent protection without adding too much bulk.
Choosing the Right Wrist Guards
Fit and Size
Selecting the right size is important for comfort and effectiveness. Wrist guards should fit snugly but not too tight. Measure your wrist and refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart to find the best fit. Moreover, adjustable straps can help customize the fit for maximum comfort and protection.
Features to Look For
When choosing wrist guards, look for features like adjustable straps, breathable materials, and sufficient padding. These features increase comfort and ensure that the guards stay securely in place during use. Some guards also come with additional features like sweat-absorbing liners or reinforced stitching for extra durability.
Brand Recommendations
Here are a few reputable brands known for their high-quality wrist guards:
- Pro-Tec: Known for their ergonomic design and durability. Pro-Tec wrist guards offer excellent protection and comfort.
- Triple Eight: These wrist guards are popular for their high-density, impact-resistant splints and breathable materials.
- Hillbilly: Hillbilly wrist guard gloves combine the protection of wrist guards with the comfort of gloves. Also, this makes them a great choice for both skateboarding and snowboarding.
Expert Opinions and Studies
Wrist guards are effective in reducing the risk of wrist injuries. For example, a study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences found that wrist guards significantly decrease the incidence of wrist fractures among skateboarders. Some experts caution that overly stiff splints can transfer impact forces to other parts of the arm. This might affect areas like the elbow.
Despite these concerns, the consensus among experts is that the benefits of wearing wrist guards outweigh the potential drawbacks. They recommend wearing wrist guards, especially for beginners and those practicing high-impact tricks.
FAQs
Are wrist guards necessary for skateboarding?
Yes, wrist guards are highly recommended for skateboarding, especially for beginners. They provide crucial protection against common wrist injuries like fractures and sprains.
Can wrist guards prevent all wrist injuries?
While wrist guards significantly reduce the risk of injuries, they cannot prevent all injuries. They are designed to absorb and distribute impact forces, minimizing the severity of injuries.
Do professional skateboarders wear wrist guards?
Some professional skateboarders do wear wrist guards, especially when attempting high-risk tricks. However, it varies based on personal preference and the type of skating they do.
Can wrist guards cause other injuries?
In rare cases, overly stiff wrist guards can transfer impact forces to other parts of the arm. It’s important to choose wrist guards that balance protection and flexibility.
How do I clean my wrist guards?
Most wrist guards can be hand-washed with mild soap and water. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning recommendations.
Conclusion
Wrist guards are a valuable piece of safety equipment for skateboarders. They provide essential protection against common wrist injuries. It also boosts confidence for beginners and offers versatility for use in other sports. They might restrict movement and be uncomfortable, but the benefits are worth it.
When choosing wrist guards, look for a good fit, comfortable materials, and trusted brands. Prioritize safety to enjoy skateboarding with more confidence.
Are wrist guards good for skateboarding? Absolutely! Check out our recommended wrist guards to find the perfect pair for you. Stay safe and keep skating!