If you’re looking for a safe and fun outdoor activity for your child, skateboarding might come to mind. However, as with any sport or activity, safety should always be a top priority. That’s why in addition to helmets and pads, wrist guards are also essential protective gear for skateboarding.
In this article, I’ll discuss the importance of wearing skateboard wrist guards for protection and provide helpful tips for choosing, fitting, and maintaining them.
What are skateboard wristguards?
Photo by Tom Claes
Skateboard wrist guards are a type of protective gear designed to protect your child’s wrists while skateboarding. They usually consist of a hard plastic shell that covers the back of the hand and wrist, with a padded interior for comfort.
Wrist guards can be worn alone or in combination with other protective gear, such as elbow and knee pads, to provide maximum protection during falls and spills. They are an essential piece of gear for anyone who wants to ensure their child’s safety while they skate.
In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about skateboard wrist guards and how they can help protect your child from injuries.
The importance of wearing wrist guards while skateboarding
As a parent, you always want your kids to have fun and be safe at the same time. Skateboarding is a thrilling activity, but it can also be dangerous. One of the most vulnerable areas of the body during a skateboarding session is the wrist.
Falls are common, and it’s natural to use your hands to break the fall, which can cause a wrist injury. That’s where wrist guards come in.
They are designed to protect your child’s wrists from potential injuries and provide the confidence they need to enjoy skateboarding without worrying about getting hurt.
Wearing wrist guards is a simple and effective way to reduce the risk of injury while skateboarding.
How do skateboard wristguards work?
If you or your child is into skateboarding, you must know that it can be a fun and exhilarating activity. But it can also be dangerous if proper safety measures aren’t taken.
This is where skateboard wristguards come in handy. Wrist guards are specifically designed to protect the wrist from injuries that can occur while skateboarding.
These guards are made with a hard plastic shell and a padded interior that absorbs shock and reduces the risk of injury to the wrist.
They work by providing support to the wrist and keeping it in a stable position, preventing it from bending in ways that could cause harm.
Different types of skateboard wristguards
When it comes to skateboard wristguards, there are a variety of options to choose from. The most common types include the standard glove style, which covers both the wrist and palm and the slip-on style, which only covers the wrist.
Additionally, some wrist guards come with added features such as removable splints or adjustable straps for a more customized fit.
It’s important to consider your child’s specific needs and preferences when selecting a wrist guard to ensure they are comfortable and well-protected while skateboarding.
Choosing the right size wrist guards
When it comes to choosing the right size skateboard wrist guards, it’s essential to make sure they fit snugly but not too tight.
A wrist guard that is too loose won’t provide adequate protection, while one that is too tight can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort.
Start by measuring your child’s wrist and consulting the size chart provided by the manufacturer. Keep in mind that different brands may have slightly different sizing, so it’s always a good idea to double-check.
If you’re unsure about which size to choose, consider trying them on in person or ordering from a retailer with a flexible return policy.
Proper fitting and adjustment of wristguards
When it comes to wearing wrist guards for skateboarding, it’s not just about having the right size but also making sure that they are properly adjusted to provide maximum protection.
To ensure a proper fit, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust the straps snugly around your wrists. You want the guards to fit securely without being too tight or uncomfortable.
It’s also important to periodically check and adjust the straps throughout the day, as they can loosen during use.
By taking the time to properly fit and adjust your wrist guards, you’ll be able to enjoy a safer and more comfortable skateboarding experience.
Certification standards for wristguards
When it comes to buying skateboard wristguards, it’s important to look for those that meet certain certification standards. This ensures that the product you are buying has been tested and meets specific safety criteria.
Look for wrist guards that meet the ASTM F1292-17 standard, which is a rigorous test for impact attenuation, as well as the CPSC safety standard.
This way, you can have peace of mind knowing that your child’s wrist guards have been thoroughly tested and meet high safety standards.
Maintenance and replacement of wristguards
After you’ve purchased your skateboard wrist guards, it’s important to maintain them properly so that they can continue to protect you for a long time.
Make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific care recommendations, but in general, you should wipe down your wrist guards with a damp cloth after each use to remove any sweat or dirt.
If your wrist guards are machine-washable, be sure to follow the instructions carefully. It’s also important to regularly inspect your wrist guards for any signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or cracking.
If you notice any damage, it’s time to replace them to ensure maximum protection. Remember, maintaining and replacing your wrist guards is a small price to pay for the long-term safety of your child while skateboarding.
Additional tips for skateboard safety with wristguards
As important as wrist guards are for skateboard safety, they are just one piece of the puzzle. There are a few additional tips that can help keep your child safe while skateboarding.
For starters, make sure they always wear a helmet and appropriate footwear. It’s also important to choose skateboarding areas that are safe and away from busy streets or obstacles.
Always supervise your child while they are skateboarding and teach them proper techniques to prevent accidents. With the right safety precautions, skateboarding can be a fun activity for kids.
Conclusion
Skateboard wristguards are a crucial piece of safety equipment for any skateboarder. They are designed to protect your wrists from injury in the event of a fall or accident while skateboarding.
By choosing the right size and type of wrist guards, properly fitting and adjusting them, and following proper maintenance and replacement guidelines, you can ensure that you and your child are adequately protected while enjoying this fun and exciting activity.
Remember, safety should always come first, and wearing wrist guards is just one step you can take to keep your child safe while skateboarding.
FAQ: frequently asked question
Why are wrist guards important for skateboarders?
Wrist guards are essential because they help prevent wrist injuries during falls and accidents. They offer support to your wrists and help minimize the risk of sprains, fractures, and other wrist-related injuries.
How do wristguards work to protect skateboarders?
Wrist guards feature a rigid splint that runs along the underside of your wrist. This splint absorbs impact forces during falls, reducing the chance of your wrists hyperextending or twisting upon impact.
Are wrist guards only necessary for certain styles of skateboarding?
Wrist guards are beneficial for all styles of skateboarding, as falls and accidents can happen in any setting. However, they might be particularly helpful for vert skaters who perform aerial tricks that involve high-speed impacts.
Can I wear wrist guards alongside other protective gear like gloves?
Yes, you can wear wrist guards alongside padded gloves for added protection. Some wrist guards even come integrated with gloves. Just ensure that the combination doesn’t hinder your mobility or comfort.
How should wrist guards fit to provide the best protection?
Wrist guards should fit snugly but not too tight. The rigid splint should cover the underside of your wrist, extending slightly beyond the wrist joint. The straps should secure the guards in place without cutting off circulation.
