Protect Your Arm: 10 Best Archery Forearm Guards to Prevent Injuries

Archery is a precise sport that demands both technique and protection. A forearm guard, specifically designed to prevent painful bowstring slaps and improve performance, can be a game-changer for archers at all skill levels. Our carefully selected collection features durable, comfortable guards that help prevent common archery injuries while enhancing your shooting experience.

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Bohning Bow Arm Guard

At just 1 inch thick, these sleek compression-fit armguards hug your forearm with soft, flexible comfort. The rubber protection piece delivers durable cushioning without the bulk, making it a practical addition to both casual and competitive shooting. While some users find the one-size-fits-all approach limiting, many appreciate its ease of use under jackets and long sleeves.

Mossy Oak Arm Guard

Crafted from premium materials, this Mossy Oak arm guard offers reliable protection for your archery practice or hunting trips. The 6-1/2 inch forearm guard features a breathable design that keeps you comfortable during extended wear. Its unisex mossy oak pattern adds a stylish touch to your equipment.

AAE Arm Guard

Crafted from durable plastic with a slightly curved design, this lightweight arm guard sits comfortably against your arm without interfering with your bow string. The adjustable elastic bands stay put after a quick once-around adjustment, while its slim profile keeps it out of the way during your shot. Made for archery enthusiasts who want protection without bulk.

HME 4-Strap Camo Arch Guard Arm

These camo arch guards add a bit of military-inspired style to your bow setup while protecting your forearms during those long shooting sessions. At just 12 inches long, they provide comfortable, unrestricted movement – perfect for keeping your arms safe without feeling cumbersome.

Vista Traditional Leather Armguard

The traditional armguard from Western Recreation proves itself through solid construction, though its one-size-fits-all approach may not accommodate all users equally well. The heavy leather design offers reliable protection for your arm during archery sessions. While the elastic pull straps provide necessary adjustability, they sometimes create an untidy look with excess cord hanging down.

October Mountain Guardian Arm Guard

This sleek arm guard combines lightweight molded construction with a contoured slim design that accommodates shooters of all sizes. The four strategically placed vents enhance comfort by promoting air circulation, while the adjustable strap system allows quick, on-the-fly tensioning without the need to remove the guard.

Western Archery Recruit Armguard

The Western Archery Recruit Armguard in pink offers a pop of color while keeping things simple with its adjustable elastic straps. The design lets you dial in a personalized fit that’s easy to adjust on the fly, though some might find the straps a bit too slippery. Overall, the armguard lives up to its import status with solid construction that matches its stylish pink hue.

30-06 Outdoors Vision Arm Guard

This sleek, one-size-fits-most arm guard slips on like a sleeve and keeps string slap at bay while shooting. The breathable camo design lets your bow arm breathe freely without interfering with your shot. The lightweight guard’s limited availability means you might need to act fast to snag one.

Neet T-AGL-5 Lace On Leather Armguard

Crafted from two layers of genuine leather, these traditional archery arm guards offer both protection and a classic look. The adjustable design features convenient boot hooks and an elastic cord, making them comfortable for shooters of various sizes. The slim profile keeps interference to a minimum while you’re on the range.

Valhalla Gear Forearm Guard with Full Grain Leather

These forearm guards, made from premium full grain leather in a rich bourbon brown, are expertly crafted in Guatemala using centuries-old techniques. Each piece is hand cut and hand stitched for lasting comfort and protection during your archery sessions. The guards, measuring a practical 13.75 inches long, are carefully constructed to offer just the right amount of support without interfering with your grip or draw. The natural characteristics of the full grain leather will develop lovely patina with regular use, making these guards not only functional but a wearable work of art for your quiver.

Buyer’s Guide

Archery forearm guards are essential safety accessories that protect your forearms from the impact of the string during shots. This guide explores the key features and considerations for selecting the right forearm guard, helping you choose the best protection for your archery setup.

Material Quality and Durability

Forearm guards typically come in three materials: hard plastic, silicone, and hybrid. Hard plastic guards provide excellent impact protection but can scratch your bow. Silicone guards offer superior grip and protection, making them ideal for both recurve and compound bows. Hybrid guards combine plastic cores with silicone exteriors, providing durability while maintaining grip.

Comfort and Fit

Proper fit is crucial for both comfort and protection. The guard should sit about 1-2 inches below your elbow and wrap around your forearm. Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit for a secure, comfortable wear. The guard’s shape should match your forearms, with some offering specialized designs for different limb sizes.

Ergonomic Details

Ergonomic features enhance both comfort and protection. Look for guards with padded interiors, which reduce pressure points during long sessions. Some guards include finger slots for additional grip, while others feature reinforced edges to prevent string bite. The guard’s closure system (clasps, Velcro, or snap closures) affects both fit and ease of removal.

Size and Compatibility

Measure your forearm to determine your guard size, as measurements can vary between manufacturers. The guard should allow about 1-2 inches of movement with your bow string. Check compatibility with your bow style (barebow, recurve, compound) and grip type (underhand, overhand, reverse grip). Consider whether the guard interferes with your shooting stance or grip.

FAQ

What is an archery forearm guard?

Also known as archery arm guards or arm protectors, these accessories shield your forearm from contact with the bowstring during release, preventing serious injury.

Modern guards are typically made from lightweight materials like plastic, metal mesh, or foam padding, with sizing options for different forearm lengths.

Do all archers need an arm guard?

While beginners might find it helpful to start with arm protection, experienced archers often forgo guards, believing their technique is precise enough to prevent contact.

Professional archers rarely use guards, relying instead on perfecting their shooting technique to prevent accidents.

What should I consider when choosing an arm guard?

Key factors include material type, sizing compatibility, style (open vs. closed), and additional features like adjustable straps or impact-absorbing padding.

Consider your dominant arm, forearm length, and whether you prefer minimal coverage for better mobility or full protection.

How do I properly fit an arm guard?

Measure your forearm from wrist to elbow, then add 1-2 inches for a comfortable fit that’s snug but allows for slight movement.

Ensure the guard fits snugly without bunching or slipping, and check that it doesn’t interfere with your bow grip or shooting form.

How do I maintain an arm guard?

Regular cleaning with mild soap and water keeps your guard hygienic and prevents buildup of sweat or debris.

Store your guard in a dry place when not in use, and consider applying a thin layer of lubricant to straps or hinges to prevent rust.

When should I replace my arm guard?

Replace your guard annually or when you notice signs of wear, such as cracks, fraying edges, or loss of padding effectiveness.

Pay special attention to impact areas, replacing the guard if you see any cracks or significant deformation after use.

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