These Arm Sleeves May Have Saved My Skin

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This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Updated August 5, 2025

Man wearing OutdoorEssentials cooling arm sleeves while cycling outdoors for sun protection.

Quick Take: After a precancerous skin scare, I started wearing these UV arm sleeves on every ride. They're cool, comfortable, and have become essential gear in my long-distance cycling setup.

These Arm Sleeves May Have Saved My Skin

I’ve spent thousands of hours on the bike in the sun. Like many cyclists, I didn’t give much thought to sun exposure—until recently. My wife encouraged me to go to a free skin check clinic. That visit may have changed my life.

The doctor found a suspicious spot on my arm. A follow-up with a dermatologist confirmed it was precancerous and could develop into something more serious if left untreated. That was my wake-up call.

The dermatologist told me two things: wear sunscreen and cover up when I ride. I tried, but sunscreen on hairy arms was sticky, messy, and didn’t last long in the Texas heat.

That’s when I found these: OutdoorEssentials UV Sun Protection Arm Sleeves. I ordered a set, wore them on a ride, and haven’t stopped since.

Arm Sleeves I Recommend for Hot Rides

I’m a budget-minded cyclist, but since I wear arm sleeves nearly every ride, I'm considering upgrading to better quality for comfort and durability. Here are three picks—from affordable to pro-level:

This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the ride!

Why I Wear These Sleeves on Every Ride

  • ✅ UPF 50+ sun protection to block harmful UV rays
  • ✅ Cool and breathable — they actually help with heat
  • ✅ No slipping — they stay up even on long rides
  • ✅ Much less mess than sunscreen
  • ✅ Come in a 3-pack (black, blue, white) — always have a clean pair

I never thought I’d wear long sleeves in summer, but these changed my mind. I feel cooler and more protected with them on — and that’s peace of mind I can ride with.

If you’re out in the sun often — cycling, hiking, fishing, or even yard work — these are worth trying. Plus, using sleeves instead of spray sunscreen means fewer aerosol bottles ending up in the landfill. Small change, big impact.

👉 Click here to check them out on Amazon

Your health is worth protecting. Don’t wait for a close call like I did. Stay safe. Stay riding. Stay covered.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do UV arm sleeves actually protect against sunburn?
Yes — high-quality sleeves like the ones I use are rated UPF 50+, meaning they block over 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. I haven’t had a sunburn on my arms since I started wearing them, even on long rides.

Do they make you hotter while riding?
Surprisingly, no. These sleeves are breathable and wick sweat. I actually feel cooler wearing them than riding with bare arms under direct sun.

Do the sleeves stay up while riding?
That was one of my concerns too, but they don’t slip. Even on long, sweaty rides, they stay in place comfortably.

Can you wear these in hot weather?
Absolutely. I live in Texas and wear them year-round. They actually help manage the heat by blocking direct sun and keeping sweat from evaporating too quickly.

Do they work for other activities besides cycling?
Yes — they’re great for hiking, yard work, driving, running, fishing, or anything that puts you in the sun for long periods.

How do you wash them?
I toss mine in the washer with the rest of my cycling gear on a gentle cycle and air dry them. They hold up really well and still feel like new after months of use.

Location: Lubbock, TX, USA

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