11 Best Wrist Guards To Protect Hands And Wrists In 2024
In This Article
Wrist guards are protective gear essential for those who skate at beginner and professional levels. Unlike other gloves, they have extra impact-absorbing padding and thickness for additional protection. The best wrist guards are tested to protect your hands and wrists from spraining or while performing any strenuous activity. They will also guard your hands while skating on steep terrains and others. So here are our reviews on some of the best-selling wrist guards in the market and a list of features to help you find the right one.
Top Picks
11 Best Wrist Guards
1. Best Overall: Triple Eight Wrist Saver Wrist Guards For Skateboarding
The Triple Eight wrist guard is designed to withstand many falls. This time-tested protective gear supports the wrist and goes well with any Triple Eight helmet or accessory. You may use it for skateboarding, snowboarding, and roller skating for wrist support.
There are two styles for you to choose from: the Wrist saver I that has a butterfly strap design with three hook-and-loop straps for a customized fit, and the Wrist saver II with a slide-on and nylon mesh sleeve with a single hook-and-loop strap for easy on-and-off. This guard for roller skating is available in small, medium, large, and junior sizes.
Pros
- Four-way stretch nylon mesh provides a great fit for optimal comfort
- High-density, impact-resistant, replaceable ABS splints on the front and back for support
- Shock-absorbing EVA foam between the support splints and wrist for cushioning
- Stretchable mesh allows maximum breathability and movement
- Suitable for skateboarding at any level
- Available as a pair
Cons
- Metal bar on top of the hand may limit mobility
- Material may not be as thick
"I love these wrist guards for their versatality. They keep me comfortable when engaging in different sports, and these also offer decent shielding during unexpected falls."
2. Best Sleek: Dakine Wristguard
The Dakine wrist guard has a low profile and sleek design that is primarily made for use under gloves for wrist injury prevention. Pick one size larger for a good fit, and wear them when you go skateboarding, figure skating, or ice skating. This trusted skateboarding wrist guard is available in six sizes, from extra small to double extra-large, and lasts longer when you use it with gloves.
Pros
- 100% Neoprene body offers durability
- Adjustable strap (hook-and-loop) easily fits on the wrist
- 20cm wide
- Protects your hand and wrist well
- Stretchable and comfortable to use
- Withstands falls and stretches
- Hand-washable
Cons
- May not offer adequate coverage beyond wrists
- Might be a bit bulky
"These wrist guards are comfortable and versatile enough for different activities like snowboarding and mountain biking. They are also sturdy and well-made, and although the sizing is a little tricky, going up one size helped me get the perfect fit."
When pairing the wrist guard with gloves, ensure the gloves are not bulky or loosely fitted, as this can interfere with the wrist guard’s ability to support and protect the wrist.
3. Best Air-Dryable: EvoShield EvoCharge Protective Wrist Guard
This tried-and-tested protective wrist guard is available in a wide range of colors for you to choose from. It is made of gel-to-shell custom-molding technology that protects from wild pitches and bad hops. The quality construction adjusts seamlessly to the wrist, offering wrist protection against falls and crashes. It is suitable for any active lifestyle. The shield coverage measures 3(W) x 4(L)in, and sleeve coverage measures five inches. The design features vivid patterns and dynamic colors for you to make a style statement. Watch this product testing and demonstration video to learn more.
Pros
- 100% Neoprene fabric construction
- Versatile color options
- Contains a performance neoprene wrist sleeve and one custom-molding protective wrist shield
- Starts as soft and flexible and transforms into hard and protective in minutes
- Custom shield molds to the shape of the hands, making it an ideal fit
- Hand-washable and air-dryable
Cons
- May run small
- Can be a little hard to put on
"Whether playing baseball or lacrosse, I always reach for this wrist guard as it is super soft and easy to wear. It even fits snugly and yet does not restrict my movement. However, I�d recommend sizing up as it may run small."
Triple Eight Wrist Saver Wrist Guards For Skateboarding Best Overall | Dakine Wristguard Best Sleek | EvoShield EvoCharge Protective Wrist Guard Best Air-Dryable | |
---|---|---|---|
Material | Plastic | Plastic | Neoprene |
Color | Black | Multi | Orange |
Weight | 0.01 Ounces | - | 0.15 Pounds |
Dimensions | 5.91 x 3.94 x 7.87 inches | - | 1.25 x 11.5 x 8.5 inches |
Dimensions | - | 7.28 x 4.13 x 1.77 inches | - |
Weight | - | 4.48 Ounces | - |
Number of Items | - | - | 2 |
Rating | |||
Reviews | 3,262 | 706 | 1,016 |
Price | $19.99 | $19.95 | $18.8 |
4. Best Double-Stitched: Hillbilly Protective Gear Wrist Guard Gloves
These wrist guards are unique as they fit over the hand like a glove. They are more comfortable than their counterparts with a strap fit and are suitable for roller sports to ensure wrist safety. The gloves are made of goatskin leather, held by a double-stitched nylon thread, which makes them strong and durable. Check out this video for a detailed review of the product.
Pros
- Resistant to wear and tear
- ABS palm splint takes the brunt of any impact
- Provides premium comfort and protection
- Covers half the length of the fingers for a convenient hold
- Ideal for speedy rides and keeps the wrist protected
- Comes in small and extra-large sizes
Cons
- Hard plastic piece may snap when exposed to intense impact
- May not provide added protection to the knuckles
"I found the hard plastic protection effective in protecting my palms during falls. The seam work could have been better, but the half-finger design is a plus; it helps me use my phone easily. I'm also impressed with the high-quality material."
5. Best Angled Design: 187 Killer Pads Wrist Guard
The 187 Killer Pads wrist guards are among the best and known for their modern construction. They are comfortable, durable, and offer additional wrist stabilization so you may enjoy longboarding while staying safe. The guards are tough enough to handle the falls and help you stand up again with the same energy. The high-quality material and stitching make it durable.
Pros
- Angled design conforms well to the hands
- Reinforced thumb hole and palm increase longevity
- Ballistic nylon with industrial-weight stitching for durability
- Extra-thick splint for additional protection of the hand base
- Padded interior offers optimal comfort
Cons
- May not fit well on big hands
- Plastic piece around palms may limit mobility
"As a skating enthusiast, I thoroughly enjoy using these wrist guards. They are well-made and prevent injuries during high-speed falls. Although I had to get a bigger size for the right fit, I am impressed with its design and protection."
Using a tape, measure the widest part around the knuckles, excluding a thumb, to measure the size of the glove you need to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
6. Best Breathable: Cthoper Impact Wrist Guard Fitted Wrist Brace
The CThoper wrist guard is a well-designed and stylish wrist guard you may consider for your outdoor adventures. It protects your wrist, palm, and hands from injury and pain when skating, skateboarding, skiing, roller skating, snowboarding, and playing sports that demand intensive protection. You can wear these guards for snowboarding under your skiing or other gloves for wrist injury prevention.
Pros
- High-quality EVA foam pad protects the hands from shocks and bruises
- Thick splint on the palm and back of the hand protects the base from hard impacts
- Four-way stretch breathable nylon mesh gives a snug fit
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Aesthetic preference for those who seek a stylish option
- Offers excellent impact resistance
- Two adjustable hook-and-loop straps on the palm and wrist for flexibility to ensure a good range of motion
- Available for palm breadth sizes of 2.36-2.95″(S), 2.95-3.54″ (M), and 3.54-3.94″(L)
- Suitable for both men and women
Cons
- Some may find it a bit bulky
- Straps might be bigger than expected
"Performing my snowboarding tricks is now a lot safer thanks to these gloves. They also offer good support when riding my bike and are super comfortable to wear."
7. Best For Kids: Simply Kids Wrist Guards Skateboarding Protective Gear
Doing outdoor activities is one of the best ways to create precious memories with your children. If you are planning to go skating with children, invest in the Simply Kids wrist guards for their protection. They are liked by several reviewers and CPSIA-compliant and are made to offer optimal comfort and look cool. Moreover, they protect the child’s growing bones during the vulnerable twists.
Pros
- Twin splint construction offers excellent support for tender young bones
- Thumb hole for extra flexibility
- Innovative hook-and-loop straps for a secure fit
- Hand-washable
- Easy to put on and take off
Cons
- Straps may be a little flimsy
- Might be prone to getting dirty
"The snug fit at the wrist has proven useful in reducing the impact of falls during my child�s skateboarding practice sessions. They also keep her hands cool and dry due to their breathability. I recommend following the brand�s size chart to find the right fit for your little one."
8. Best Double-Sided: Demon Flexmeter Wrist Guards
Made with neoprene material, these wrist guards for snowboarding are comfortable to wear and offer excellent protection while giving you a competitive edge. These adjustable wrist guards feature thermoplastic bracing that helps reduce impact in case of accident or injuries, and the hook and loop closure with secure straps offer a customized fit. The comprehensive wrist guard design provides protection to the wrist and forearm area and can be used for mountain biking and winter sports.
Pros
- Made of 90% neoprene, 10% polyethylene (fabric), and polyamide (lining)
- Adjustable slides with hook-and-loop straps
- Ample padding on front and back
- Palm protection using D3O technology
- Adjustable wrist size
- Dorsal thermoplastic splint made in Hytrel
- Highly resistant to extreme temperatures
- Comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Velcro strap may not be stitched well
- May not be as hard
"The highlight of these wristguards is the plastic shield, which absorbs impact and provides substantial protection against hyperextension. Besides, they feel comfortable even when I wear them for long hours and have been going strong despite being used regularly."
9. Best For Beginners: Soared Skating Impact Wrist Guards
Ideal for beginners, these trusted wrist guards for roller skating can also be used for skiing, snowboarding, and skateboarding to save your wrists. They are slightly flexible but solid enough to avoid bending of the wrist. These wrist guards for snowboarding also protect the hands, including the palm, back of the hand, and wrist. The straps are long and comfortable.
Pros
- Ergonomic design, flexible ABS plastic bones shell with special hole support points
- Two adjustable straps with a nylon build provide durability
- Tough and stretchable Lycra mesh fabric on both sides
- Breathable and moisture-wicking mesh
- Flexible and impact-resistant splint
- Facilitates a good range of motion
- Easy to wear and remove
Cons
- May not offer optimal adjustments
- May not be as solid
"I found that these provide solid protection for skateboarding and other similar activities. They are slightly bulky and not great for hobbies requiring finer hand movements, but they are still sturdy and provide an excellent amount of wrist support."
10. Best For Women: K2 Alexis Women’s 2012 Wrist Guard
The K2 Alexis wrist guard is designed for women and protects you from bumps and bruises when you hit the ground. It features durable construction and offers reliable protection during extreme sports, as the armor on both top and bottom conforms to the palm. The guard for roller skating has a great wrap look with a fastener for a secure fit, making it ideal for working on your sport-specific proficiency. It is suitable for snowboarding, skateboarding, skiing, and roller skating.
Pros
- Made of heavy-duty plastic material
- Adjustable elastic straps for a secure fit
- Made from breathable material
- Durable plastic caps shield against abrasion and impact
Cons
- Might restrain movement at times
- Might be difficult to put on
"It's remarkable how this pair manages to prevent injuries without limiting mobility. The rivets loosen over time, but tightening them isn't troublesome. And while the padding is somewhat thin, I still give them a nod of approval for their easy-to-wear design."
11. Best Cushioning: Lalatech Skating Gloves
The Lalatech skating gloves can be used for skateboarding, skiing, snowboarding, hiking, camping, snow sports, and motocross. This sports safety equipment for protection covers the palms and wrist, allowing a full range of thumb and finger movement. The plastic splint protection makes them tough.
Pros
- Impact-resistant ABS plastic bone shells
- Adjustable strap on the palm and wrist for a secure fit
- Good cushioning and reliable protection
- Thumbhole for added flexibility and easy access
- Unique hollow design makes them breathable and comfortable to wear
- Inner cushion pad absorbs sweat and provides added protection
- Available in medium and large sizes
Cons
- Does not offer coverage for fingers
- May run small
"Their sturdy construction and precise fit allow me to perform my sliding stunts with greater confidence. The strap is a tad shorter than expected, but I like that the inner cushioning offers protection from the plastic components."
How To Choose The Right Wrist Guard?
Here are a few key features to consider if you are planning to get the best wrist guard.
- Material: Consider buying a wrist guard made of a field-tested high-quality material that lasts long and is appropriate for the weather. If it is hot, you may have to go for lightweight and breathable material. For colder weather, thick materials are ideal as they provide more protection.
- Flexibility and fit: You want a wrist guard that is comfortable to wear and flexible enough to offer a good range of motion to the muscles in the region. It should fit firmly and have straps for adjustment. Measure your palm size to choose a guard of the correct size as per the sizing guide provided by the manufacturer.
- Style and design preference: There are different styles, including full-finger wrist guard, half-finger wrist guard, and fingerless guards. Choose the one that makes you feel comfortable and safe.
- Durability: Wrist guards are usually super durable and are designed to withstand falls. They last longer if used correctly. Check the reviews to understand more about the durability.
- Budget: If you are a professional skater, you may want to invest in quality wrist guards even if they are expensive. For your safety, invest in the best one that saves your money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a skateboard wrist guard?
Skateboard wrist guards are gloves usually worn to help prevent wrist injuries or accidents when skating. They provide support and protect your wrists during activities that involve high-impact landing.
2. How do I wear wrist guards for skateboarding?
Choose a suitable wrist guard and locate the thumb hole. Then, based on the design, slide the wrist guard on or lay it open before wrapping it around your hand. Next, secure the straps and make sure the guard fits snugly.
3. Do skating wrist guards protect against fractures?
Wrist guards may help reduce the risk of fractures, but they cannot completely protect the wrist against them. However, fractures and injuries tend to be less severe when you use wrist guards.
4. Do wrist guards help carpal tunnel?
A certified carpal tunnel wrist guard can help relieve pain. Such wrist guards are designed solely for carpal tunnel syndrome. While drugstore wrist guards can be used for sprains and arthritis, they are not as effective for carpal tunnel.
5. Should I sleep with a wrist splint on?
If you have a wrist injury, sprain, or other conditions like arthritis or carpal tunnel, you may sleep with a wrist splint on. It helps restrict the movement of your wrist and reduces pain. However, do not expect drastic results, and ensure it is not too tight, as it could restrict blood circulation.
6. Should I wear a wrist splint all day?
No, wearing a wrist splint all day may cause the joints to stiffen. You may wear it during strenuous activities like skating, longboarding, and skiing.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Considering the material, style, durability, and utility, we have prepared a list of the best wrist guards that provide support and protect your wrists while skating. To make this article more informative, we have also highlighted the features of each product and considered user reviews to offer an unbiased opinion. We have also provided a buying guide to help you with the right purchase.
The Bottom Line
The best wrist guard aids in protecting your hands and preventing an injury when performing any sports activity such as skiing or skating. A wrist guard should be lightweight, durable, and stretchable to provide much-needed protection and comfort when performing a sports-based activity or any other recreational exercise. Our list of the most popular wrist guards and a buying guide can help you select the right wrist guard that not only acts as a shield to your wrist but also adds to your sports equipment repertoire. You may consider the Triple Eight Wrist Saver Wrist Guards for their support, cushioning, and shock absorption, and the EvoShield EvoCharge Protective Wrist Guard for offering a customized fit. We also like the 187 Killer Pads Wrist Guard for their durability and wrist stabilization.
Infographic: Buying Guide For Selecting The Best Wrist Guard For Your Needs
As the name suggests, wrist guards protect the wrists from potential injuries and help manage certain symptoms of specific conditions. The infographic below includes a list of features you should look for when shopping for a wrist guard.
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our vibrant community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with like-minded individuals.
Read full bio of Nya Dobbs
Read full bio of Pratibha Bagdy