For those planning to go snowboarding, it's always a good idea to wear plenty of protection. Whether you're going down a half pipe, steep hill, or backcountry riding, it's smart to invest in a protective wrist guard before hitting the trail again. Snowboard wrist guards should be at the top of your list since many fall injuries can be prevented with some simple protective gear.
Here's a quick list of our top picks for the best snowboard wrist guards:
Who Needs To Use Snowboard Wrist Guards?
According to Huffpost, "Wrist injuries accounted for over 28% of all snowboarding injuries". This statistic alone should convince you to buy a pair wrist guards. You're better off investing in safety gear to reduce the risk of injury. This way, you've got a higher chance to avoid any medical costs.
One of my best friends as a kid went out on a snowboarding trip, and he came back with a broken wrist and a cast on his arm. With such a preventable injury, anyone out on the slopes should be wearing a pair of snowboard wrist guards.
The following YouTube video explains important snowboard safety principles:
How Do I Choose Snowboard Wrist Guards?
One of the most important parts to choosing snowboard wrist guards is to pick some with your desired lining material. You'll want to make sure you don't have any allergies to the materials included. Most wrist guards are made with neoprene or other similar stretchy materials.
Buy a pair of snowboard wrist guards with the right shape and design you want. Each come with a different style built to conform to your hands and wrists. This won't impact protection, although it can impact comfort and how much range of motion you have with your hands.
Choose wrist guards that are well made so they last. The most important factor is that they protect your wrists if you were to fall. Depending on how you hit the ground, they may or may not last after a hard hit. Your wrist guards should endure plenty of wear and tear, yet keep in mind their intended purpose—to break your fall.
Below is a checklist of things to look for when choosing snowboard wrist guards:
- Ensure the guards have the right materials for you.
- Buy a pair of snowboard wrist guards with your desired shape and design.
- Choose a pair of wrist guards that are well made.
What Are The Best Snowboard Wrist Guards?
We've looked at a range of snowboard wrist guards and have selected five guards. The main things we've looked at are quality, price, and materials. We've reviewed these five snowboard wrist guards and listed some pros and cons for each wrist guard.
our #1 rated
Triple Eight
Saver Series Wristsavers
Quality
Price
Our rating
The Triple Eight saver series wristsavers are available in four size options. The guards feature a tough nylon mesh body that stretches to provide a snug fit. They also have high impact ABS splints on the front and back for added wrist support.
Customers who purchased these wrist guards found that they are functional and safe to guard your wrists. People said that they offer plenty of room for fingers by the top of the splint. Customers also said they fit over gloves if needed (although you may want to size up if you plan on wearing gloves with them).
Some customers who used this pair of wrist guards said they tend to work one time if you have a hard fall. Other people said they've lasted them multiple falls and continue to offer protection. A few customers mentioned the mesh is a little thin.
PROS
CONS
our #2 rated
CTHOPER
Impact Wrist Guard
Quality
Price
Our rating
The impact wrist guard from CTHOPER is a two-piece wrist support that comes in three sizes. It features adjustable Velcro straps that work for kids, youth, and adults. The wrist guards also come with additional padding around the wrist and palms.
Customers who purchased these wrist guards said that they keep their wrists straight and tight. Other people said that fit great inside of gloves for added protection. Some customers commented they're a good cushion to help when you fall.
Many people who purchased these wrist guards said that there isn't much to provide protection for your wrist. Other people reported that there is a lack of a splint to keep your wrist from bending if you were to fall. A few customers noted that they do not have impact protection.
PROS
CONS
our #3 rated
Dakine
Wristguard (1 Pair)
Quality
Price
Our rating
This wristguard made by Dakine is available in six different size options. The wrist guards feature stretchy neoprene material with a Velcro wrist cinch for an adjustable fit. It also has a lightweight internal aluminum frame for a low profile design that fits inside gloves.
Customers who purchased these wrist guards said that they are very good for protecting wrists when snowboarding. People said that they liked how there is an internal aluminum frame so they fit underneath gloves easily. Many customers also found that the guards saved them on more than one occasion when out on the slopes.
A few customers who purchased these guards said that they run a little small and to make sure to use their size chart. Other customers reported that they can be a bit tight to put on.
PROS
CONS
our #4 rated
Soared
Impact Wrist Guard
Quality
Price
Our rating
The Soared impact wrist guards come in three sizes and one color. The guards feature a double layer design with plastic and mesh. They also have adjustable nylon straps on the palm and wrist to make for a snug fit and to prevent slipping.
Customers who purchased these wrist guards said that they're solid for wrist protection and perfect for beginners to snowboarding. People said that they really save their wrists and are flexible enough to fit over the top of gloves, while staying sturdy. Customers also commented they provide a good level of shock and pressure protection on the wrist.
Other people who used these wrist guards said that these offer good protection, although they can be more difficult to take your hand out to use a cell phone. Some customers also mentioned that they're a bit bulky in comparison to other options.
PROS
CONS
our #5 rated
187 Killer Pads
Wrist Guards
Quality
Price
Our rating
These wrist guards made by 187 killer pads are available in four sizes. The wrist guards feature an angled design to conform to the hands for a better fit. In addition, they have an extra thick splint for added protection.
People who purchased these wrist guards said that they protect well for the impact of a fall. Customers said that they do a good job of keeping your hands and wrist into position. Customers also noted that they're easy to put on and take off.
Some customers who used these wrist guards said that they do not help to prevent shock of an impact. Other people reported that the strap may tend to fray over time.
PROS
CONS
To Conclude
Each pair of snowboard wrist guards we've reviewed works for those looking to protect their wrists out on the slopes. All the wrist guards feature Velcro straps, hard shell protection, and a comfortable fit.
After comparing all the products, the best snowboard wrist guards are the Triple Eight Saver Series Wristsavers.
These wrist guards offer a functional and safe fit to protect your wrist while snowboarding. They have room for fingers and fit over top of gloves. We also like the fact that they have a high impact splint for added protection.