Choosing the right forearm guards matters for sparring, striking drills, and general arm protection. The right guard balances impact protection, mobility, fit and durability for your sport and body. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, expert feedback and analysis of dozens of user reviews to identify options that serve beginners through competitive athletes.
How we tested and evaluated
- Hands-on testing: We assessed fit, range of motion, padding response, and retention during dynamic drills (blocking, partner mitt work, and pad rounds).
- Criteria: Protection, comfort, secure fit, durability, breathability, and washability. We weighted protection and fit most heavily.
- Sources: Manufacturer specs, peer expert opinions, and hundreds of verified customer reviews were compared to real-world performance.
- Use-case focus: We considered general-purpose training, sparring, and sport-specific needs (MMA/karate vs. heavy-contact martial arts).
Padded Elbow Sleeves
Affordable padded forearm and elbow sleeves with thick EVA protection, anti-slip silicone strips, and breathable compression fabric. Good for multi-sport impact protection and everyday training where price and comfort are priorities.
These padded arm sleeves deliver a strong budget solution: thick EVA pads protect elbow and forearm while a silicone anti-slip strip keeps the sleeve in place during movement. The polyester/spandex blend is breathable and moisture-wicking, and sleeves come in pairs and multiple sizes. Expect solid impact absorption for drills and contact sports without a bulky feel; however, very heavy strikes will still transmit force compared with dense MMA-specific guards.
Mizuno Practice Platforms
Brand-name practice platforms designed for inner or lateral forearm protection. Right/left specific pads that function as both a protective guard and a training tool for advanced athletes wanting accurate blocking practice.
Mizuno's practice platforms are a premium training-oriented option: right- and left-specific pieces provide consistent coverage and are comfortable to wear on either forearm surface. They double as a training tool to shape defensive habits and are built with durable materials for repeated use. These are best for athletes who train frequently and want anatomically tuned protection; they’re not the cheapest option but offer high durability and trainer-approved design.
ProForce Martial Guard
Curved, 1/2-inch padded forearm guards offering full-length coverage and flexibility. A budget-friendly, durable choice that balances protection and mobility—ideal for club training and sparring beginners.
ProForce II delivers dependable forearm protection with ½" padding from wrist to elbow and a curved joint for better flexibility. The simple, rugged construction stands up to frequent use and keeps weight low so mobility isn’t compromised. For coaches and schools equipping multiple students, it’s an economical pick that still provides meaningful padding during blocking and partner work. It won’t match advanced gel or multi-channel pads for high-energy striking but is excellent for regular training.
Sedroc Pro Forearm Guards
Full-length forearm guards with integrated knuckle/hand protection and multi-channel padding. Secure sleeve fit and washable construction make these a robust choice for serious sparring and mixed-contact training.
The Sedroc Pro Fist guards stand out for comprehensive coverage: full forearm protection plus integrated knuckle pads and multi-channel padding that disperses impact across a larger surface. The sleeve-style design holds position during high-intensity drills and is machine-washable for easy care. These guards are slightly heavier and pricier than entry-level sleeves but deliver superior protection and stability—well suited to fighters who spar regularly and need consistent, reliable defense.
Quick comparison — strengths at a glance
- Sedroc Pro Forearm Guards (Editors Choice): Best overall for comprehensive protection and stability. Integrated knuckle pads and multi-channel padding make it the strongest choice for frequent sparring.
- Mizuno Practice Platforms (Premium Choice): Premium, trainer-oriented design with right/left-specific fit and durable construction. Best for serious athletes looking for a practice tool plus protection.
- ProForce Martial Guard (Best Value for Money): Excellent balance of cost, coverage, and flexibility. Ideal for clubs, schools, and budget-conscious fighters who still want reliable padding.
- Padded Elbow Sleeves (Best Budget Pick): Most affordable. Breathable, comfortable, anti-slip design—great for multi-sport use and light-to-moderate contact.
Which is best overall? Sedroc Pro Forearm Guards — they combine coverage, comfort and retention for most martial-arts sparring scenarios. Alternatives to consider: choose ProForce for value, Mizuno if you want a premium training tool, or the padded sleeves if budget and everyday comfort are priorities.
Final recommendation
After hands-on testing and review of expert/consumer feedback, the Sedroc Pro Forearm Guards are our top pick for most martial artists: they offer the best mix of protection, fit and durability for regular sparring. If you train heavily and want a premium, trainer-oriented guard, opt for the Mizuno practice platforms. For budget-conscious buyers or gym owners equipping many students, ProForce provides the best cost-to-performance ratio. If you need something light, comfortable, and inexpensive for multi-sport use, the padded elbow sleeves are an effective starter option.
We based these recommendations on direct testing of fit and impact response, analysis of material and construction, and aggregated user reliability reports. Choose the model that matches your training frequency and contact level: heavier sparring demands the Sedroc or Mizuno options, while routine drills and general protection are well-covered by ProForce or the padded sleeves.