Why your arm sleeve is nothing to be ashamed of

«Arm sleeves are total rubbish,» «You’re no good anyway; a sleeve won’t make you any better,» or simply «Haha.» There are huge prejudices against arm sleeves – seeing them always used to make me smirk. But there’s more to them than meets the eye. These arguments will take the wind out of the sails of any critics.

They can help you physiologically – even if only as a placebo

Manufacturers often claim an increase in performance or a reduction in the risk of injury. Both can be true. In a 2023 meta analysis, researchers concluded that wearing compression clothing can be a viable strategy to improve athletic performance.

Another overview study from 2021 was less positive. It concludes that the effect of compression clothing is ambiguous. So, it can help, but it might not. I’m deliberately citing research on general sporting activity rather than esports. Why? Because I couldn’t find a specific study on esports that wasn’t backed by a manufacturer or industry organisation. And they only highlight the positive aspects anyway.

So, the research is divided on improving performance. A lot of it probably has to do with expectations. If you don’t believe in a performance-enhancing effect from the outset, you won’t experience one. This point is also mentioned in the second study above. If, on the other hand, you believe an arm sleeve increases your physical performance, you’re not wrong, even if it’s only a placebo effect.

If it feels good, do it

Even if the physiological element of an arm sleeve’s unclear, it can have another positive effect. If you feel comfortable in something, you can focus better, which is essential when gaming. So, if you find an arm sleeve comfortable, go for it – it certainly won’t do any harm.

Ergonomics may reduce friction

I game on a desk mat. I find the bare wooden surface of my desk uncomfortable, and my forearms stick to it. If the sleeve reduces the friction of my forearm on the surface, that’s handy. Depending on the material, it can even reduce friction on the desk mat.

Of course, you could argue that a long-sleeved top or jumper has the same effect. But they’re made of different material or woven differently. The friction on the surface changes and you have to get used to the new material each time. You don’t have this problem if you always wear the same sleeve.

Another ergonomic advantage of the sleeve is that you don’t sweat all over the pad, which would cause even more friction. Plus, it also keeps you warm in the colder months.

Far from embarrassing

Until recently, I laughed at people who gamed wearing an arm sleeve. It was only when I tried one that I realised its value. Will I wear a sleeve in the future? No, I mostly game with my Steam Deck anyway. But I definitely won’t make fun of people who wear one any more.

Mouse + Keyboard accessories

Pulsar Gaming Gears Arm Sleeve Palm Long

Mouse + Keyboard accessories

Pulsar Gaming Gears Arm Sleeve Palm Long