Disclaimer: I received the UV Buff arm sleeves from Buff_USA as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro ( ambassador ), and check out www.bibrave.com to review, find and write race reviews.
These arm sleeves were a product I was excited to review for a few reasons! First, the most obvious, is because BUFF products are just plain awesome. Second, I really like the idea of the added warmth of arm sleeves. Third, well... because in Minnesota early morning runs are still quite chilly. I want to rock shorts and tank tops and these sleeves help me do that!
The morning I snapped the picture above, the weather was perfect. 48 degrees was just a bit too chilly with only a tank top and shorts. However, it was absolutely perfect for my arms sleeves!
What makes these arm sleeves so cool?
- UPF 40+ sun protection (put them on when it's cooler, but benefit when it heats up)
- Moisture-Wicking
- Antimicrobial
- Packable
- Machine-Washable ( I also lay flat to dry )
- Comfortable elastic arm band ( I did use a bit of Body Glide - just in case )
- Reflective technology ( I love this feature )
I have really enjoyed testing these sleeves over the past few weeks. I even found a comical but extremely useful benefit - MOSQUITO REPELLENT!
My last run was a nice 6-miler in the Northwoods. Let me tell you... I completely forgot how gigantic and ruthless the mosquitos are here. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the arm sleeves make a pretty fantastic barrier for those little blood suckers. *Note: bring your BUFF arm sleeves when running or hiking in the woods. Who knew!?
It is pretty easy to find your measurements for these sleeves. If you look on the website here I have included the direct link for sizing.
I measured 11 1/2 inches and ordered a size M/L. They fit me great. They are not too tight at the top of my arms and they give me a nice light compression as well.
In my opinion, if you are close to another size, I would size up. However, (in my completely non-scientific thinking,) unless you have thimble size arms, I would say that the majority of women would be in a size M/L and the men would be wearing a L/XL.
Nonetheless, please make sure you give your upper arm a good measurement so you have a good idea on your personal sizing.
Lets talk about reflection shall we?
BUFF sure knows how to do gear right! You can see in this photo that even in low-light conditions, I have reflection at the top of my sleeve. For me, I ALWAYS look for reflective gear because it is so important for my visibility during my early morning runs.
You may be wondering - "Do the arm sleeves sag or fall down?" In my experience, they do not. In actuality, I hardly knew they were on! However, this is where sizing is important. You want to find that the sleeve fits snug, but doesn't strangle your arm either. There is nothing worse than a wardrobe malfunction mid-run. We've all been there.
I will also note that I DID where Body Glide at the top elastic edge, but this was only for precaution. Chaffing anywhere is a nuisance, so I covered my bases just in chase.
I have tested many BUFF products recently and these are definitely a favorite of mine. At $24.99 you can't go wrong and I am happy to add them to my daily running attire.
