CONTEXT: In arid agroecosystems, farmland shelterbelts are widely used as green infrastructure to buffer harsh wind environments. By weakening near-ground winds, they curb wind erosion, moderate field microclimates, and can raise crop production. Improving shelterbelt design is therefore a cross-disciplinary problem spanning ecological engineering, micrometeorology, and sustainable agriculture. OBJECTIVE: We assess how major design variables, optical porosity, shelterbelt height and width, alignment relative to prevailing winds, and tree/shrub species mixtures, shape shelter efficiency, and how these factors interact to determine overall performance. METHOD: This review consolidates findings from field measurements, experimental studies, and numerical simulations to explain how shelterbelt physical form and biological composition translate into protective functions and agronomic benefits. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Evidence from observations and models suggests that intermediate porosity (approximate to 30-50%) most effectively reduces wind while maintaining a broad sheltered zone, typically reaching similar to 20-30 H downwind (H = belt height). Multiple rows and mixed-species belts generally provide stronger erosion control and more stable microclimate regulation than simple single-row designs. Within sheltered areas, evapotranspiration is frequently 10-30% lower, humidity is higher, and temperatures are less extreme, changes that improve crop water productivity and are commonly linked to similar to 10-25% yield increases. Because design goals can conflict, effective planning requires multi-criteria optimization that jointly considers wind protection, water demand, biodiversity co-benefits, and economic practicality. Remaining challenges include climate-resilientconfigurations, drought-efficient and native species selection, AI/ML-supported performance prediction, and governance and incentive mechanisms that improve adoption. SIGNIFICANCE: Locally calibrated design rules that reflect regional climate-soil-water constraints are necessary to maximize the long-term effectiveness and resilience of shelterbelt systems in arid farming worldwide.