Elbow & Shoulder Guards
About Elbow & Shoulder Guards
Elbow and shoulder guards pad two joints that often take a hit in a fall. Off-road riders wear strap-on elbow guards, and street riders slide armor inserts into a jacket. Youth sizes are listed too. A guard that has taken a hard hit, or whose straps and padding have worn, is a reason to replace it.
The listings take a few forms. Strap-on elbow guards, such as the EVS Epic, Flex Lite and Barricade Flex guards, are worn on their own. The ICON Field Armor Compression Sleeve is a close-fitting sleeve, and the listing describes the padding it uses. D3O inserts, such as the LP1 and LP2 shoulder guards and the Ghost Level 2 shoulder and hip guards, are pads for armor pockets. Some inserts are marked Level 1 or Level 2, and some are sold as a curved pair, so read the listing for the shape and whether you get a pair. Youth listings are sized separately.
Brands here include THOR, ICON, EVS, Fly Racing and Scorpion EXO. Matching pieces are in Knee Protectors, Hip Protectors and Chest Protectors, and the full range is in Protective Gear.
FAQs on elbow and shoulder guards
Are elbow and shoulder guards sold in pairs?
Often, but not always. Some listings are pairs, such as a curved shoulder pair, and others are a single guard or a set that also covers other joints, such as the shoulder and hip guards. Check the title and description to see exactly what is included before you order.
Can I put shoulder guards into the pockets of my jacket?
Only if the jacket has pockets cut for them. Jacket makers design pockets for particular shapes of armor, so check the size and shape on the listing against the pocket, and look at the jacket maker's advice on compatible inserts.
How tight should elbow guards fit?
Snug enough to stay over the joint without sliding down when you bend your arm, and not so tight that they cut off circulation or limit movement. Check the maker's size chart, and test them by bending your arm as you would on the machine.
Do youth riders need different elbow guards?
Yes. Youth listings are sized for smaller arms, and an adult guard will not sit over the joint correctly. Use the size chart, measure the rider, and recheck the fit as they grow, because a guard that has slid off the joint protects very little.
What does a compression sleeve with armor do?
A compression sleeve is a close-fitting sleeve worn on the arm. Some hold pads over the joint without straps, and the ICON Field Armor Compression Sleeve is one in this category. Check the listing for the padding it includes, how it is sized, and whether it is sold as a pair.
