why do some afl players wear long sleeves

Some AFL players wear long sleeves primarily for comfort and warmth, especially in colder weather conditions. Long sleeves can help keep the muscles warm and provide a sense of comfort, particularly for players from colder regions or who grew up playing in chilly environments. For some players, wearing long sleeves started as a personal preference or habit, and it can also be a way to stand out or cover up skinny arms or tattoos. Additionally, the material used in the long sleeves is designed to wick moisture, so it doesn't necessarily retain sweat and can be practical during play. Some players also have superstitions or personal reasons for wearing them. However, long sleeves are less common than sleeveless guernseys due to tradition, player comfort, and ease of movement considerations. For example, player James Aish said he wears long sleeves because he is skinny and likes to cover his arms, while others like Brad Close wear them for warmth and comfort, especially in colder climates like Mount Gambier or Adelaide. Another player, Chad Wingard, wore long sleeves even in 28-degree weather, indicating comfort and habit play roles too. Long sleeves are less restrictive than long pants, which are not allowed in games, and players usually wear skins or leggings in training to keep muscles warm but do not wear them during games due to uniform approvals and tradition. In summary, AFL players wear long sleeves for warmth, comfort, personal style, or superstition, not just for weather reasons alone.