Using protective arm sleeves for gardening is beneficial. There are many types to choose from, so you’re sure to find a pair that works for you!
Most people don’t use protective arm gear while working in their gardens, but I recommend doing so. At first, it might feel awkward, but if you choose gardening sleeves made from material that works with your skin type, you’ll find a comfortable fit in time.
In this article, I share why wearing protective arm sleeves when gardening is a good idea and what to look for while shopping for your first pair.
Reasons To Wear Protective Arm Sleeves When Gardening
Protective arm sleeves have many benefits if you wear them correctly while gardening.
Eliminates Cuts and Scrapes
Protective arm sleeves protect your arms against thorns and gardening tools cutting or scraping your skin. Branches and sharp leaves can’t chafe or irritate your arms when wearing them. This also prevents infection from soil and germs from entering your blood through injuries.
Eliminates Bites
Gardening sleeves provide a protective layer between your arms and insects you’re likely to encounter while gardening.
If you wear your protective arm sleeve in the garden, you’ll be protected against bugs, insects, and snakes. The sleeves will prevent bites and infections.
Hand Cushion
A benefit you probably didn’t think of is that arm sleeves are usually soft enough to provide a little cushion for your hands. This is very beneficial if you’re spending long hours in your garden.
Protection Against Poisonous Plants
Some plants can irritate your skin because they’re poisonous. Arm sleeves protect you against rashes and infections these plants can cause.
Protection Against Skin-Damaging Factors
Arm sleeves can help prevent sunburn. Your skin also won’t dry out from the soil or other things you work with in the garden.
No More Torn Clothes
Sometimes your clothes can get hooked on a sharp edge in the garden like a thorn and tear. Protective arm sleeves prevent this from happening and keep your clothes clean.
Wrist Support
Protective arms sleeves don’t just protect your arms, they support your wrists. They hold your wrists in the right position when you’re busy with strenuous activities. This prevents wrist strain and serious injuries.
What To Look For In Protective Arm Sleeves For Gardening
Durability
Although the cheaper or prettier option may be more attractive, it’s better to choose arm sleeves that will last for a long time. You wouldn’t want to be replacing them every few weeks or months.
Breathability
The sleeves you choose need to be breathable enough to keep you from sweating but not so much that it lets through all the dirt and water.
Flexibility
You need to be able to use your hands comfortably when you wear your arm sleeves. Ensure they’re flexible enough for any type of work.
Material
Choose a material that’s durable and offers enough protection. Some materials are too thin, and others may be too thick.
Design
Choose a design that’s not only pretty but offers enough protection. Many designs are available, but some are created with aesthetics in mind, so steer away from these.
Tips When Buying Protective Arms Sleeves For Gardening
Check The Washing Instructions
Something you need to keep in mind when buying protective gear for your arms is their washing instructions.
If the sleeves are too hard to get clean, they’re going to end up somewhere on a shelf, and you would have wasted your money.
Look for a material you can pop in the wash!
Fit
Don’t buy sleeves that sit too tight. These can cause blood circulation to slow.
Look for the right fit and consider that you’ll probably wear them over your clothes at some point.
Weight
You need to regularly use your gardening sleeves, so consider how much they weigh. Opt for lightweight sleeves because if they’re too heavy, your sleeves can cause more strain than protection.
Protection
The main goal of any protective arm sleeve is to offer protection. Ensure the sleeves you want to buy do that. Some materials don’t provide enough protection, and some may even be too short.
Cost
Don’t opt for the cheaper choice if you can afford the more expensive sleeve. The more expensive one may have features that make it better in terms of durability and quality.
The opposite is also important because you need to know that the expensive one isn’t always the better one. Consider all of the features before determining your budget.
Last Words
Protective gear can help create a more enjoyable gardening experience. If you regularly work in your garden, investing in a quality pair of gardening sleeves is a good idea. You should shop for ones made from durable material that’s breathable and sits comfortably.
Wearing sleeves when gardening will protect your arms from bites, scrapes, and infections. If you live in a sunny area, these will also help prevent sunburn.
I hope this article was helpful, and you now have a better idea of what to look for when buying gardening sleeves. If you found your perfect pair, share it here in the comments! You can also ask any additional questions you have about arm sleeves for gardening.
FAQs
Can compression arm sleeves cause problems?
Yes.
Compression arm sleeves could cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Your body will need to push blood through your arms to ensure movement, whereas a continuous healthy flow would normally occur. Overusing these gloves isn't a good idea.
How do you make a homemade arm sleeve?
It's pretty simple to make protective arm gear for gardening at home. You can use an old shirt or buy durable material and simply cut and sew it to fit snugly around your arms.
How can I protect my arms from the sun?
The best way to protect your arms against the sun is to wear sunscreen and protective sleeves while gardening.
How many hours a day should you wear a compression sleeve?
You shouldn't wear compression gardening sleeves for longer than 4 hours at a time.