ABOUT THE GIRO LOAM ELBOW SLEEVE
Giro’s Loam Sleeve elbow pads feature 8mm of integrated D3O Trivent XTI padding. The padding is housed inside a trademarked, Renew Series AX Suede Stretch microfiber elbow zone. While a focus on comfort and mobility is present, it is nice to also see the High Abrasion CAP armor print over the padded area, which is likely what will be grinding across the Earth’s surface in the event of a wreck.
The pads are Level 3 impact certified, offering a thin buffer to take the edge of impacts you’d encounter on 120-160mm bike rides.
Keeping the pads in place is an Evo Grip Cuff, which never rubbed us the wrong way but helped the sleeves stay put.
THE DIRT
Giro states the Loam Elbow Sleeve is a “Lightweight arm protection offering, perfect for trail riding.” Overall, I found this to be the case. Initially the sleeve was a bit stiff and felt awkward over the bone of my elbow but after a few rides with them on, they broke-in a bit, softened up and began to mold to the shape of my arm.
Fit on the Giro Loam Elbow Sleeves feel true to size. I reviewed a size large Loam pad and feel they are comparable to other brands elbow pads I’ve tried on. At $89USD it is on the high side considering the minimalist design and compared to competitors’ offerings.
The suede microfiber material lacks much in the way of perforations on the interior elbow side, which does cause these pads to run on the warmer side. Here in southern California it’s currently a little chilly (sub 70 degrees Fahrenheit is chilly for SoCal) so not a major issue although I would not likely run these during the spring and summer seasons here due to the heat trapping nature of the materials. Then again, this is likely why so many riders opt to not run elbow pads more often. In colder climates this could be an advantage as an arm warmer that also provides some safety features.
I have yet to hit the dirt on a ride with these pads so I can’t speak to the protective nature of them. That said, when thinking about what I would like from a protective standpoint in an elbow pad, it is generally more about abrasion protection and some impact defense from trees or objects on narrow trails. Given the Level 3 Impact Certification and overall lightweight nature of these pads, I would say Giro has delivered a product in-line with those desires.
Another detail worth mentioning is the cuff design. The upper cuff has a single, narrow quarter-inch silicone band, which did an okay job of keeping the pad in place while riding. I would like to see a bit more silicone banding here as this may be an issue for some depending on fit. By comparison, I have a set of Fox Launch Elite pads that feature a 1-1/2” dotted style elastic band that keeps the pad in place very well, however some may find discomfort from larger or thicker silicone strips for multi-hour rides. I’d suggest trying these pads on to ensure you get the right size and that they’ll work for you.
The Wolf’s Last Word
Overall the Giro Loam Elbow Sleeve accomplishes what it claims to be, they offer lightweight arm protection that is almost perfect for trail riding. If you are riding in cooler climates or in the market for a minimalist elbow pad this is an option worth considering just give them time to break in. 
Price: $89.95
Website: Giro.com
SHARE THIS REVIEW
ABOUT THE WOLF
Born and raised in San Diego County, grew up riding BMX bikes on the streets and getting kicked out of skateparks. Dabbled in the bike world through my 20’s and into my 30’s before getting serious about mountain bikes a few years ago and haven’t looked back since. I am a constant tinkerer and lover of any trail with some chunk along with post ride beers!
Rank: Wolfpack Member
Riding Level: Intermediate to advanced depending on the size of the jumps!
SUPPORT AND JOIN THE LOAM WOLF PACK
Did you find this review helpful? Would you like the chance to review (and keep) products like the member here? Are you interested in saving big bucks by getting exclusive Members Only discounts from industry brands all while helping support a small, rider-owned media crew? We have big plans for our members beyond big discounts and product giveaways! To learn more and help support small, independent media, visit our Member’s Page.