Whether you’re lining up a putt on the 18th green or spending a long day in the garden, sun protection is non-negotiable. But not all sun sleeves are created equal. Choosing the right pair is the difference between staying cool and protected versus feeling restricted and uncomfortable.

To help you find your perfect match, we’ve ranked the 10 most important factors to consider when purchasing sun sleeves, with a focus on why Crazy Arms has become the go-to choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

1. Intended Use and Activity

The most important question is: When will you be wearing them? If you are using sleeves for sports like golf, tennis, lawn bowls, or cricket, freedom of movement is paramount. You need a sleeve that "fits like a second skin" so it doesn't bunch up or interfere with your swing or delivery.

Check out what the golf community has to say about Crazy Arms.

2. Precision Fit (Avoiding the "One Size" Trap)

The last thing you want is a sleeve that is so tight it pinches, or so loose it constantly falls down. Many brands claim "one size fits all," but human arms certainly aren't! Crazy Arms offers 4 adult sizes and 3 kids sizes tailored to specific bicep measurements. We also incorporate a light elastic band at the top to ensure they stay exactly where you put them. Read more about construction here

•    Check out our Size Guide to find your match.

3. Comfort and Fabric Quality

Comfort is a blend of fit and fabric. We use premium Italian fabric - the same high-quality material favoured by top fashion designers. It is incredibly soft, lightweight, and offers a light compression that creates a cooling sensation on the skin, making them a joy to wear even on the hottest days. 

4. Certified UPF 50+ Sun Protection

A high-quality sleeve should block over 98% of UVA and UVB rays. While cheaper brands often skip formal testing, Crazy Arms are regularly lab-tested by ARPANSA (the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency) to ensure they exceed the UPF 50+ standard. Learn more about the difference between SPF and UPF testing here.

5. Durability and Easy Care

Your sun sleeves should be an investment that lasts for years, not weeks. Our premium fabric is designed to maintain its shape and stretch through countless washes.
•    Pro Tip: To maximize their lifespan, we recommend air drying, as frequent tumble drying can eventually impact the stretch components of the fabric.

6. Long-Term Value (Price vs. Performance)

While price matters, it's worth paying a little more for a UPF-tested brand with guaranteed durability. Think of them as essential equipment; for golfers, at $40, a single pair will last longer than the same investment in a pack of 12 premium golf balls! Quality Sleeves also save you money over time compared to the constant cost of buying sunscreen. Check our the maths here

7. Style and Colour Practicality

While classic white is a favourite for reflecting heat, other colours have practical perks. Greys and Blues are excellent at hiding dirt and marks from outdoor activity. Crazy Arms offer a wide range of block colours to match your team kit and fun print patterns to liven up your outdoor look.  Our fun kids’ prints are also a great way to encourage kids to get into good sun protection habits early, as well as protecting particularly vulnerable young skin.

8. Need for Hand Protection?

If you spend long hours driving or holding sports equipment, consider a thumbhole version. These are cut slightly longer to cover the back of your hand, providing extra protection for one of the most sun-exposed parts of the body while keeping the sleeve securely in place.

9. Sustainability and Eco-Impact

Are your sleeves contributing to fast-fashion waste? Not us. Crazy Arms are made from ECONYL®, a regenerated nylon utilizing post-consumer waste, including ghost fishing nets recovered from the ocean. Our packaging is 100% recycled, and we donate 1% of all sales to the Healthy Seas organization to help protect our marine environments.

10. Reliable Customer Service

Lastly, but maybe also the most important?! Look for a company that stands behind its product. Crazy Arms consistently receives 5-star ratings for our customer service. We offer free size exchanges and easy refunds because we want to make sure you are 100% happy with your purchase.
 
Ready to find your second skin? Explore our full range of Crazy Arms and experience the difference that premium, sustainable design makes.