If the Leeches are moving in a worst-case scenario, perpendicular to the string, they are bending under the torque. They are therefore not as wide as they would be in a static state. This means that the width would only be about 1/4" beyond the string.

If you're hitting your arm with only a 1/4", imagine what is happening when you wear any heavy clothing? I would consider re-evaluating my form (maybe the grip) and possibly changing my draw length.

To give you a comparison, my string misses my bare arm by more than an inch.

Hope this helps by giving you some food for thought.