Game preparation isn’t just about nutrition but also attire. Advanced garment technology, like compression sleeves, enhances performance, protecting athletes from sun exposure while providing added support. Cricketers and other athletes wear these sleeves for practical benefits beyond appearance.
1. Arm Sleeves Help with Compression
One of the key benefits of wearing an arm sleeve is compression. Popular brands offer sleeves with advanced fabrics and superb elasticity. This compression aids in stabilizing and relaxing arm muscles, while also promoting better blood circulation.
2. Arm Sleeves Improve Performance and Reduce Soreness
Arm sleeves help cricketers in the healing process, especially for batters, bowlers, and wicketkeepers who often experience arm pain during play. Pain or inflammation can affect performance, so cricketers use arm sleeves to prevent discomfort and support circulation. These sleeves also keep players dry in humid conditions, promoting faster recovery for tired muscles through effective compression.
3. Arm Sleeves Offer Protection
In cricket and other sports, players often face injuries while catching, running, or diving. Arm sleeves offer protection against such injuries and reduce the risk of field bruises. Additionally, they enhance flexibility in the forearm and elbow, helping prevent cramps from fatigue or strain.
4. Reduce the Risk of Sunburn
Cricket is typically played on an open field under the sun, as a traditional summer sport. Despite wearing caps, players risk sunburn on their elbows and forearms, along with potential skin irritation or friction burns. Arm sleeves help reduce these risks, keeping skin protected and healthy.
5. UV-Blocking Arm Sleeves
Why do Cricketers Prefer Arm Sleeves to Long-sleeved tees?
“Comfort” is the main reason cricketers prefer arm sleeves. Lightweight and easy to carry, players can wear them whenever needed. Arm sleeves allow quick movement during bowling or fielding, offering more comfort than long-sleeved shirts. In summer, full-sleeve shirts cause excess sweating, while arm sleeves keep skin covered and reduce sweat buildup. In winter, they provide warmth without the bulk of long sleeves, depending on the material.
| How to Choose the Best Arm Sleeves for Cricket | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Determine the Size of Your Arm Sleeves | Measure your bicep and subtract 0.5 to 2 inches for a good fit. Remember, similar bicep sizes can still require different sleeve sizes due to arm density differences. |
| 2. Determine the Fabric Quality | Look for high-quality, moisture-wicking materials to ensure comfort, durability, and injury protection. Avoid poorly made sleeves, and replace old ones when stitching or quality declines. |
| 3. Select an Arm Sleeve with UPF 50+ Protection | Cricket requires hours in the sun, so UV protection is vital. Choose sleeves with UPF 50+ if you’re sensitive to sunlight for optimal protection. |
| 4. Select an Elastic Gripper Arm Sleeve | Grippers keep sleeves in place during play. While not mandatory for snug-fitting sleeves, an elastic (ideally silicone) gripper ensures sleeves stay put even if slightly loose. |
| 5. Check that They are Not too Tight | Avoid sleeves that pinch or restrict movement. Compression sleeves vary, so consult size charts and ensure they don’t feel too tight or uncomfortable when worn. |