Sports Vision Safety

More than 40,000 sports-related eye injuries are reported annually in the United States, many of them causing permanent damage to a player's vision. Types of injuries can range from simple bruises and irritation to fractured eye sockets, retinal detachment, and blindness. Outdoor athletes may also be subject to excessive ultraviolet radiation that can lead to tumors, cataracts, keratitis, and other conditions.

Certain sports are more prone to eye injuries, including:

• Basketball, where fingers and elbows can easily foul a player in the face and cause injury
• Karate, boxing, and other bodily contact sports
• Baseball, tennis, racquetball, badminton, paintball, hockey, and other sports that involve projectiles moving at high speeds
• Skiing, waterskiing, snowboarding, and other winter or water sports where glare from the snow or water can cause vision problems
• Mountain biking and hiking when gravel, dust, and other debris can be dangerous

Fortunately, with the proper equipment, more than 90 percent of eye-related injuries can be prevented.

There are three basic types of sports vision equipment players can investigate:

• Sports glasses: These specially made eyeglasses or sunglasses are designed with a player's needs in mind.

Different manufacturers include different types of features in their sports glasses and goggles. Popular options include:

• Polycarbonate construction that is more impact and scratch resistant than either glass or plastic
• Prescription or non-prescription options for different athletes
• Polarized glasses or lenses with an anti-reflective coating to reduce glare
• Ultraviolet coatings to shield eyes from excessive radiation
• Color tinting for performance enhancement by adding greater clarity to sports equipment or field conditions
• Transition lenses that adjust tinting for both indoor and outdoor wear
• Form-fitting, contoured designs and lens shapes to protect peripheral vision
• Anti-fog coatings, particularly for goggles
• Rubber padding to cushion the goggles or glasses against the nose, head, and ears
• Straps and clips to provide extra security for rigorous sports
• Designs meant to fit inside helmets or to be worn with other standard safety equipment

When choosing which models to buy for the best visual protection, athletes should consider whether the equipment can protect against the trauma, potential debris, and excessive sunlight particular to an individual sport. If an athlete plays several sports, several different pairs of safety glasses may be necessary. Trying on a variety of styles and sizes can help individuals find one that fits best without impairing performance, including visual acuity and peripheral vision. At the same time, the glasses should be comfortable, and many stylish models are available.

Many retailers offer a range of sports vision safety equipment. Specialty sports stores and pro shops frequently have safety gear, including glasses and goggles, and online sports retailers and glasses specialists often feature protective clothing and safety equipment as well. Online stores with sports glasses include:

• Oakley
• Eye Save
• Sports Eyes
• Goggles 'n More

Prices range from less than $20 for a simple pair of safety sunglasses to more than $150 for a specialty pair of prescription glasses. Buyers may be able to comparison shop for discount prices, and some retailers will offer deals to teams or registered athletes.

Wearing the proper sports vision safety equipment is not enough to safeguard against accidents and injuries. Players should always behave responsibly and avoid horseplay or dangerous situations, and safety gear should be cared for properly so it can continue to be effective for many games and competitions to come.

The proper safety gear is essential for safe sports participation, and safety goggles, glasses, and face shields should be a part of every athlete's equipment. Worn properly, glasses can prevent most eye-related injuries, allowing the athlete to clearly see his or her victory.