Players sometimes wear long sleeves in summer to protect themselves from the sun, maintain body heat, and for extra support. This may seem counterintuitive, given the warmer weather conditions, but there are several reasons why players opt for long sleeves.
History of Long Sleeves in Football
The practice of wearing long sleeves in football is not new, and it has been observed in various tournaments, including the World Cup. In the 2014 World Cup, some players wore long sleeves, despite the hot weather conditions. According to Ben Goldhagen, senior PR manager at Adidas, "Some players opt to wear a base layer to provide extra support rather than for warmth."
Benefits of Long Sleeves
Long sleeves can also protect players from the sun, which is particularly important for players with pale or sensitive skin. As explained in Running in Heels, long sleeves can be a savior for players who are already sunburnt or sensitive to the sun.
Player Preferences
Some players prefer to wear long sleeves for personal reasons, such as to keep their arms warm or to provide extra support. As seen in BigSoccer Forum, players have discussed the benefits of wearing long sleeves in hot weather, including keeping the sun off their skin and staying cooler.