Best Batter’s Elbow Guards of 2023
When MLB hitters first started wearing elbow guards up to bat back in the 1980s, it was seen as strange. Now, though, it’s strange if hitters aren’t shielding their arms with something. And with companies like EvoShield innovating baseball’s protective equipment industry, elbow guards are only going to become more common as America’s Pastime continues to evolve. Yet, it’s hard to imagine that a hitter’s three main priorities (protection, comfort, and style) when seeking out the perfect elbow guard will be changing any time soon. And while most companies have done a solid job of revamping and innovating their elbow guards to cater to these common preferences, there are still a few elbow guards out there that are head and elbow above the rest.
EvoShield EvoCharge Elbow Guard
EvoShield’s EvoCharge elbow guard is crafted with EvoShield’s patented Gel-to-Shell technology, which utilizes air-activated material that transforms the guard from a malleable gel into a customized, form-fitting shield in minutes. A redesigned covering offers a durable surface and a quick-release pull-tab for an easy-on, easy-off feel without sacrificing the lock-tight hold. Showcase your style and own the plate with EvoCharge’s original patterns and dynamic colors. The EvoShield EvoCharge elbow guard is currently retailing for $49.95, but new versions can be found for $25 on SidelineSwap.
Our Expert’s Take:
The EvoShield EvoCharge is iconic in the elbow guard space. In fact, it helped put EvoShield on the map, so to speak, and although there have been many new elbow guard models since the EvoCharge was first released, this EvoCharge is still among the best available. EvoShield’s Gel to Shell technology is as cool as it sounds and creates a completely customizable guard that’s fit perfectly to your body. It’s simple to put on and remove, isn’t intrusive during the swing, has a simplistic yet elegant look, and there are endless colors available. EvoShield struck gold when crafting this EvoCharge elbow guard, and it has already cemented its spot on the elbow guard of Mt. Rushmore (if there was such a thing). Despite its older age, you still can’t go wrong with an EvoCharge.
G-Form Elite 2 Elbow Guard
The G-Form Elite 2 batter’s elbow guard improves on the hugely popular first version by adding a layer of comfort foam and improved aesthetics. The internal layer of comfort foam gives a padded fit for enhanced comfort at the plate and the color options have been upgraded so you can stay swaggy all season long. The Elite 2 elbow guard keeps the protection fit, featuring SmartFlex padding soft and flexible during play, and only hardens on impact—along with a pre-curved shell that supports the upper triceps pad and a cantilever shield design that offers extra protection against wild pitches. The G-Form Elite 2 Elbow Guard is currently retailing for $59.99 and can be found on SidelineSwap.
Our Expert’s Take:
If you see an MLB player with a bigger, longer, and heftier elbow guard at the plate that doesn’t have an EvoShield logo, it’s probably a G-Form Elite 2. These elbow guards are a favorite for professional players because they offer maximum protection for a large part of the arm (as opposed to EvoShield’s, which generally protect only the elbow). Yet this longer guard doesn’t sacrifice comfort. Due to the G-Form Elite 2’s nested pad hinge design, players will still have their full range of motion when swinging. And while I personally don’t love this elbow guard’s aesthetic, G-Form does offer a lot of sweet designs to choose from. If you’re looking for something that will offer your arm maximum protection and don’t mind the bulkier look at the dish, then this G-Form Elite 2 elbow guard is a great choice for you.
EvoShield Pro-SRZ 2 Elbow Guard
The EvoShield Pro-SRZ 2 elbow guard uniquely innovates batter’s protection with its form-fitting Gel-to-Shell Technology to ensure a custom fit and maximum confidence. The lightweight, durable design transforms from a flexible material out of the package to a form-fitting, pitch-deflecting shield in minutes. A single strap with an iridescent pull tab secures the shield around the player’s elbow, and reflective accents attract everyone’s attention. Modern comfort mesh manages moisture on the elbow guard’s interior, keeping the batter comfortable. The EvoShield Pro-SRZ 2 elbow guard is currently retailing for $69.95 and can be found for the same price on SidelineSwap.
Our Expert’s Take:
Yes, EvoShield has two elbow guards on this list. But while the EvoCharge and Pro-SRZ 2 come from the same company and utilize the same Gel to Shell technology, they’re two completely different products. For one, the Pro-SRZ 2 offers a new and improved design, adding some swag while still keeping the sleek, minimalist look that made people fall in love with the EvoCharge. Plus, the Pro-SRZ 2 is longer and offers 10% more protection than any other EvoShield elbow guard. Not to mention that its modern comfort mesh helps manage moisture (i.e. sweat) on the guard’s interior. And if there was one complaint about the original EvoCharge, it was that they could get stinky after some use. With the Pro-SRZ 2, you won’t have to worry about that —nor anything else, for that matter. If spending $70 on an elbow guard is within your budget, you should be buying an EvoShield Pro-SRZ 2.
Marucci Full Coverage Elbow Guard
The Marucci Full Coverage elbow guard has been upgraded to match the preferred on-field design of Big League hitters. With its movable, lightweight, secure design, the Marucci Elbow Guard provides maximum coverage while remaining flexible without restricting motion. Full elbow bone coverage leaves no potential exposure to impact if worn correctly, flexible triceps and forearm pad sections extend the protection area, and a durable mesh fabric outer shell protects against wear and tear. The Marucci Full Coverage elbow guard is currently retailing for $49.99 and can be found for the same price on SidelineSwap.
Our Expert’s Take:
The name of this elbow guard says it all. The Marucci Full Coverage elbow guard is as full coverage as it gets. It spans almost the entire arm (especially on youth hitters, who these elbow guards are primarily crafted for), and offers a bulky design that makes it so its user can barely even feel if they’ve been hit by a pitch. As you might have assumed, this isn’t the most comfortable elbow guard and will hinder your range of motion. But if you are looking for the most protection possible in an elbow guard for you or your kid, then the Marucci Full Coverage elbow guard is among the market’s best.
Nike BPG 40 Elbow Guard
Nike’s BPG 40 elbow guard features a durable PE shell for maximum protection lined with Dri-FIT fabric for moisture-wicking performance. Anatomical design won't restrict the range of motion and hook and loop closure allows for an adjustable fit. Sweat-wicking technology helps you stay dry and comfortable, while an adjustable strap provides a personalized feel. One size will fit most adults, and there is also a BPG 40 version available for kids. The Nike BPG 40 elbow guard is currently retailing for $34.99 and can be found for the same price on SidelineSwap.
Our Expert’s Take:
Nike seems to have taken their cues from EvoShield when coming up with this BPG 40 elbow guard. In terms of aesthetics, it looks almost exactly the same as EvoShield’s EvoCharge model—in fact, if not for the two companies’ logos, I don’t think I could differentiate between the two. And considering that EvoShield revolutionized the game with their elbow guards, it’s fitting that Nike opted to follow their example. Yet, this elbow guard is still extremely solid in its own right. It’s sleek, won’t disrupt your range of motion, and is extremely sturdy. It won’t mold to your arm as an EvoShield would, but that doesn’t necessarily make it an inferior product. Not to mention that it’s got the infamous swoosh on it. So if you’re a Nike enthusiast and want to show some brand loyalty, then the Nike BPG 40 elbow guard is the choice for you.
Conclusion
Regardless of which elbow guard you decide to buy this season, just know that your purchase guarantees your arm’s protection. But also be sure to do your teammates and coaches a favor, too, and wash your elbow guard every once in a while. These elbow guards don’t protect against stink.