Frosty air whipping past, snowflakes melting on flushed cheeks, adrenaline surges–nothing is better than shredding down a mountain.
But like all extreme sports, snowboarding can be treacherous. Broken bones, sprains, and other injuries are not uncommon, but what many don’t realize is just how fragile your wrists are. Thankfully, there’s an easy way to avoid these injuries that doesn’t require sacrificing speed and style: wrist guards. In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about these essential pieces of gear, including how they work, why wrist injuries are so common in snowboarding, the benefits of wearing wrist guards, and tips & tricks for choosing and wearing the right ones. Prepare to be armed with knowledge and ready to hit those slopes!
What are Wrist Guards and How Do They Work?
Wrist guards are exactly what they sound like – a protective gear that is designed to protect your wrists when participating in high-impact sports like snowboarding. Wrist guards are constructed using a mix of materials, ranging from high-impact plastic to hard foam padding, to create a sturdy shield that fits comfortably over your wrists.
But how exactly do wrist guards work? In the event of a fall or collision, wrist guards help to distribute the force of impact across a wider area of your arm, lessening the stress on your wrists and reducing the likelihood of bone fractures, sprains or other potentially serious injuries to occur. When you take a spill on the slopes, it’s not just your wrists that can take a beating – your elbows and forearms are often affected as well. Thankfully, the right pair of wrist guards can also provide some level of support and protection for these areas too.
Overall, wrist guards can be incredibly helpful in protecting your body while snowboarding, especially if you’re a beginner or you’re just getting back into the sport after taking some time off. Simply put, wrist guards help to cushion the blow of any falls or spills that you might take, and can help prevent serious injuries that might sideline you for multiple ski seasons. Consider wrist guards as an essential piece of kit that you need in your arsenal before tackling the slopes this winter.
Why Are Wrist Injuries So Common in Snowboarding?
Snowboarding is a thrilling sport full of speed, adrenaline, and high-flying tricks. However, with great excitement comes great risk, and one of the most common types of injuries for snowboarders are wrist injuries. But why is that? The simple answer is because when a snowboarder falls, their first instinct is to put their hands out to break their fall. While this may protect their head and face from injury, it also puts a lot of pressure on their wrists, which can easily result in sprains or even fractures. Additionally, snowboarding is a sport that requires a lot of balance and stability, which can often be compromised if a snowboarder has weak wrists. All it takes is one wrong move, and a snowboarder can end up with a serious wrist injury that can put them out of commission for weeks or even months.
The Benefits of Wearing Wrist Guards when Snowboarding
When it comes to the benefits of wearing wrist guards while snowboarding, the advantages are clear. Firstly, wrist injuries are very common in snowboarding. Falling on your outstretched hand can cause serious damage, such as sprains, fractures, or even dislocations. By wearing wrist guards, you can help reduce the impact of these falls and prevent injuries from happening in the first place.
In addition, wrist guards can also help with the overall comfort and stability of your ride. They can provide additional support to your wrists and help you maintain better balance on your board. This can improve your technique and make your snowboarding experience more enjoyable overall.
Another benefit of wrist guards is that they can help you build confidence on the slopes. Knowing that you are protected from potential injuries can alleviate any fears or anxieties you may have about snowboarding. This can help you progress faster and push your limits without fear of injury.
As an added bonus, many wrist guards are designed with ventilation and moisture-wicking properties, which can keep your hands dry and comfortable throughout the day.
Overall, the benefits of wearing wrist guards while snowboarding are clear. They can prevent injuries, improve your technique, boost your confidence, and increase your overall comfort on the slopes. With all of these advantages, it’s easy to see why wrist guards are a must-have for any serious snowboarder.
Tips and Tricks for Choosing and Wearing the Right Wrist Guards
When it comes to selecting and wearing the right wrist guards for snowboarding, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you want to make sure that you choose a pair that fits comfortably, without being too tight or too loose. This will help ensure that they stay in place while you’re riding, without impeding your movement or causing any discomfort.
Another important factor to consider is the level of protection that the guards offer. While all wrist guards are designed to help prevent injuries, some may provide more coverage and support than others. Consider your own level of experience and the types of terrain that you plan on riding on, and choose your wrist guards accordingly.
In addition to selecting the right wrist guards, it’s also important to wear them properly. Make sure that you adjust them so that they fit snugly around your wrists and that they are securely fastened. You may also want to wear a pair of gloves underneath the wrist guards for added comfort and protection.
When you’re out on the slopes, pay attention to how your wrist guards are feeling. If they start to feel uncomfortable or if they slip out of place, take the time to adjust them as needed. This will help ensure that you stay protected while you’re riding, and that you can enjoy your time on the mountain without worrying about the risk of injury.
Finally, be sure to take care of your wrist guards by cleaning them regularly and storing them in a safe place. With the right care and attention, your wrist guards can last for multiple seasons, providing you with the protection that you need to stay safe and injury-free while you’re out on the slopes.