Choosing Best Wrist Guards for Roller Derby: Adjustable Protection Tips

Choosing the Best Roller Derby Wrist Guards

Roller derby is an exciting but high impact sport that can lead to injuries if the proper protective gear isn't worn. Wrist guards are an essential piece of equipment to help prevent broken wrists or sprains. With so many options on the market, choosing the right roller derby wrist guards for your needs can be a challenge.

Types of Roller Derby Wrist Guards

There are a few main types of wrist guards used in roller derby:

• Hard plastic guards - These offer the most protection with a hard plastic shield over the inner and outer wrist. However, they restrict mobility the most.

• Flexible fabric guards - Made of breathable fabrics with plastic protective plates. Offer good protection with more flexibility and comfort.

• Splints - Splint style guards only protect one side of the wrist but allow for full flexibility.

Key Features

Some key features to consider when selecting roller derby wrist guards:

• Protection level - Consider the type of hits your position takes and how much protection you need.

• Breathability - Look for moisture wicking fabrics to keep hands cool and dry.

• Adjustability - Guards should fit snugly without restricting circulation or movement.

• Low profile - Slim, contoured designs are less bulky and easier to skate with.

• High quality - Durability is important to withstand repeated hard impacts.

Finding the Right Fit

Achieving the ideal fit is crucial for both protection and performance when wearing wrist guards. Here are some tips:

• Measure your wrist size correctly and follow sizing guides.

• Pay attention to adjustable velcro straps and tighten appropriately.

• Test flexibility by rotating wrists, checking ranges of motion.

• Break guards in during practices before using in games.

• Consider your glove size/style to get the right layered fit.

Recommended Roller Derby Wrist Guards

Based on protection, quality, comfort and value, here are my top picks:

• 187 Killer Pads - Offer mid-level protection with good flexibility and airflow. Very durable.

• Triple 8 Saver Series - Lightweight and breathable with splint-style protection. Budget friendly option.

• Smith Scabs - Slide-in hard shell for serious protection. Bulky but ideal for heavy contact positions.

• Atom Skates Bombsquad - Low profile protection in fun designs. For those wanting flair with safety.

Tips For Skating With Wrist Guards

Once you choose a solid pair of wrist guards, getting used to maneuvering with them takes some adjustment. Here are helpful tips:

• Practice falling techniques to avoid catching full body weight.

• Work on agility moves like crossovers and transitions during scrimmage.

• Focus on keeping your wrists flexed when hitting the ground.

• Aim to land on forearms versus hands to distribute impact.

• Bend knees more to keep balanced and centered over skates.

Remember, wrist guards reduce risks but don't prevent all injuries. Develop strength through push-ups, wrist curls and planks to build stability. And stay positive, keep trying new skills. With patience you'll get comfortable playing hard in your protective gear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I size up with wrist guards?

It's recommended to follow the sizing chart for a snug fit. Guards that are too loose won't stay in place to properly protect on impact. Most quality wrist guards allow adjusting tightness, so start on the looser end until breaking them in for best comfort.

Are wrist guards necessary for roller derby?

Wrist injuries are extremely common in roller derby, with breakage risks high - especially among new skaters. Good wrist guards are considered mandatory safety gear for both practices and bouts in all leagues. They greatly reduce the chances of fractures and sprains.

Do I need fingerless gloves with wrist guards?

Fingerless padded gloves create an additional protective layer under wrist guards to reduce vibration and abrasion injuries from falls. They also give you better grip and can absorb sweat. For those concerned with finger dexterity for throwing jammers off, half-finger style gloves are a good solution too.

FAQs

Can I use snowboarding wrist guards for roller derby?

Snowboarding wrist guards may work in a pinch, but roller derby places more repetitive frontal impact versus falling backwards. So snowboarding guards don't provide ideal lightweight protection. They also lack contouring at the fingers for maintaining dexterity when blocking and grip holding.

What are the best wrist guards for roller skating ramps?

For roller skaters focusing on vert, mini ramp and half pipe tricks, flexible fabric wrist guards offer the best combination of protection and high mobility for maneuvers. Brands like 187 Killer Pads, Pro-Tec and Hillbilly offer options with good wrist support and breathability if you take slams.

Should junior roller skaters wear wrist guards?

Wrist guards are highly recommended for junior roller skaters as their bones, joints and muscles are still developing. Even simple falls while learning basic skating carry risk. Guards help minimize injuries so kids stay confident advancing skills and enjoying the sport injury-free.

How do I make wrist guards more comfortable?

To ease any rubbing or pressure points, wear wrist sleeves or light gloves underneath. Icing swollen wrists after sessions helps too. Over time guards break in and feel better as your muscles and joints adjust. Ensure proper sizing and strap adjustment so protection stays put without pinching circulation.