When it comes to the choice of equipment you wear on your arms, you’ll probably find yourself asking the question:
Should I be wearing arm sleeves or elbow pads?
Wearing elbow pads and arm sleeves is completely optional in volleyball. To answer which one is right for you, you really have to consider which problem you’re trying to solve.
The Purpose Of Elbow Pads
The main goal when you wear elbow pads is basically the same idea as wearing knee pads, you’re adding cushioning to reduce the impact when you land on your elbows. For some players, this is essential because they land on their elbows quite often, but for others, it’s a non-issue.
If you’re a defensive player, you will be impacting your arms on the floor at a much higher frequency. Liberos and defensive specialists spend a lot of time on the floor because they are going for those impossible digs and saves.
TO PROTECT YOUR ELBOWS FROM IMPACT, THESE ARE WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR…
When you dive properly, your arms should be making contact with the floor much more than your knees. Over time, the wear and tear on your elbows can really cause some bruising, scrapes, pain, and discomfort.
The Purpose Of Arm Sleeves
While they look very similar, you’ll notice that arm sleeves or compression sleeves don’t actually have extra padding at the elbow joint. In fact, many arm sleeves don’t even cover the elbow. Some players find these more comfortable, leaving your elbows with free movement.
That’s because arm sleeves are to help with the impact of passing the ball. They take some of the sting out of those hard serves and spikes by adding a layer of protection to the top surface of your platform. Some extend coverage to the hands, leaving just a hole for your thumb to slide through.
TO PROTECT YOUR FOREARMS FROM IMPACT, THESE ARE WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR…
While these arm sleeves may seem like a good idea, for many players they aren’t necessary. When you’re new to volleyball it may seem like your arms hurt so much from the impact of those serves. But most players adjust, adapt, and get used to that impact pretty quickly with consistent play.