#Japan #Kyoto #Shohei Ohtani #CW-X #Arm Brace

Revolutionizing Athletic Performance: The CW-X Arm Brace

The CW-X Arm Brace is a groundbreaking product aimed at elevating the performance of athletes, particularly baseball players. Created by Wacoal, a renowned brand in sports conditioning wear, this specialized arm brace is developed for and endorsed by the famed baseball player Shohei Ohtani. Set to launch on February 2, 2026, this arm support is specifically tailored for professional and major league baseball players, harnessing the innovative thinking behind CW-X’s technology and Ohtani’s unique requirements.

The Genesis of CW-X Arm Brace

The inspiration for the CW-X Arm Brace stemmed from Shohei Ohtani's personal experience and feedback—specifically, his desire for a protective and adjustable elbow brace after undergoing his second Tommy John surgery in 2023. Following his surgery, Ohtani was actively seeking products that could help maintain his performance during pitching and batting. In response to Ohtani’s needs, the CW-X team embarked on an extensive process of prototyping, rigorous testing, and adjustments, resulting in a base model that became available in March 2025. Ohtani's input greatly influenced the development process, as he expressed a desire for similar athletes facing elbow issues to benefit from this product.

Unique Features of CW-X Arm Brace

The CW-X Arm Brace combines the brand's advanced taping principle with a unique wire structure that allows for minute adjustments in extension, optimizing the range of motion in the elbow. This meticulous design helps support pitching actions while keeping the arm secure. Given the diversity in arm lines and play styles among athletes, the initial purchase requires a face-to-face consultation for sizing and product explanation, ensuring a perfect fit before ordering online.

Tommy John surgery, a common elbow procedure for pitchers, sees about one in four major league pitchers undergoing it during their career—a trend that’s growing even in Japan. Through the CW-X Arm Brace, the brand aims to assist athletes who struggle with elbow-related anxiety, helping them enhance their performance and gain confidence on the field.

Product Overview

• - Model Numbers: BCR017 (Right Arm), BCR117 (Left Arm)
• - Price: To be determined
• - Sizes: M, L, LL, 3L, 4L
• - Color: Black (BL)

The CW-X Arm Brace—crafted with Ohtani’s feedback—employs the same taping principles that have made CW-X products trusted among athletes. Additionally, the innovative wire structure provides adjustable tension to control the elbow's range of motion, which is crucial for arms in motion.

Features of the CW-X Arm Brace

1. Wearable Taping - Incorporates CW-X’s proprietary taping technology.
2. Custom Wire Structure - Consists of a wire that runs from the upper arm through to the wrist, controlling joint movement.
3. Adjustable Wire Dial - Enables micro-adjustments to extension levels.
4. Wrist Adjuster - Easily adjustable wrist tape to prevent slippage.
5. Inner Silicone Tape - Designed to help reduce slippage at the arm opening.
6. CORDURA® Fabric - Offers a soft feel, lightweight characteristics, and durability.

Ohtani's Personal Experience

Shohei Ohtani, the CW-X brand ambassador, commented on the significance of the CW-X Arm Brace in his training regimen: “As I returned to pitching this season, I focused on conditioning and performance improvement. The CW-X Arm Brace is a crucial part of this, and I’ve communicated my insights with the CW-X team through numerous rounds of testing and modifications. It is reassuring to have this item when I’m on the mound, and I hope it can help other players in need.”

In addition to the CW-X Arm Brace, Ohtani also utilizes other CW-X products like Body Balance Up models and five-toed socks during training and games. He encourages everyone in pursuit of physical activity to experience CW-X products as an integral part of their routine.

About CW-X

CW-X is a brand under Wacoal, developed based on the groundbreaking idea of incorporating taping principles into leggings. The inception of CW-X was influenced by an incident involving a family member of a researcher who was able to continue exercising after an injury with the help of taping. This reaction led to a quest for developing easily wearable products that integrate taping techniques, culminating in the launch of sports tights in 1991, marking a significant innovation in sportswear. Apart from tights, CW-X has expanded its product line to include functional tops and sports bras that assist active lifestyles, championing the needs of athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.

For more information on the CW-X Arm Brace and its features, visit the CW-X official website.