01.Introduction
Wrist injuries are common among snowboarders. International studies show that 25 percent of all snowboard injuries affect the wrist, and that 70 percent of wrist injuries are fractures.
Studies have shown that wearing a wristguard can significantly reduce the risk of injury. A wristguard covers the lower forearm, wrist and part of the hand.
To compare the quality of products on offer, an expert panel carried out an assessment, looking at comfort, fit and protectiveness.
Note: this assessment was funded by the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) of New Zealand. Our thanks to ACC and Consumers' Institute of New Zealand for their permission to republish the findings.
Findings
- Wristguards must provide adequate support and protection, while allowing the wrist to be used as normally as possible.
- The expert panel was disappointed by most of the wristguards they saw.
- Even so, wearing any wristguard is better than not wearing one.
Please note: this information was current as of June 2007 but is still a useful guide today.