What to Look for in a Pair of Sports Glasses
Posted Jul 20, 2023 | Tips, Tricks & Tech
When it comes to sports, we often associate improving our game with the best pair of sneakers or thirst-quenching energy drinks. But have you ever thought about how important your vision is to your performance?
According to one study, more than 600,000 people a year are affected by sports-related eye injuries1. So, while we’re game to protect our heads and feet from the obvious possible injuries, we’re not so concerned with our eyes.
On top of safety, clear vision also plays a huge role in maximizing your performance. Sharp eyes can help improve accuracy and focus and make your reaction time quicker. Even if you have perfect vision, the right sports eyewear can keep you from getting an elbow to the eye, reduce the glare from those bright stadium lights, and enhance contrast on the slopes to help you see better and react faster.
Here are a few qualities you want to be on the lookout for when it comes to sports eyewear:
According to one study, more than 600,000 people a year are affected by sports-related eye injuries1. So, while we’re game to protect our heads and feet from the obvious possible injuries, we’re not so concerned with our eyes.
On top of safety, clear vision also plays a huge role in maximizing your performance. Sharp eyes can help improve accuracy and focus and make your reaction time quicker. Even if you have perfect vision, the right sports eyewear can keep you from getting an elbow to the eye, reduce the glare from those bright stadium lights, and enhance contrast on the slopes to help you see better and react faster.
Here are a few qualities you want to be on the lookout for when it comes to sports eyewear:
- Durability: When selecting a pair of sports frames, it’s essential that you get a pair with lenses that are durable. Nothing will ruin your game faster than a pair of broken lenses! Polycarbonate is a great material for sports glasses, since it is high impact and scratch resistant.
- Fit: Your glasses won’t be very effective if they keep falling off. Make sure your sports glasses fit snugly, and comfortably, on your face. If you discover that your glasses aren’t fitting as well as you’d like—and if you bought them on Eyeconic—don’t forget to take advantage of your free frame adjustment.
- UV Protection: Corneal damage, cataracts and macular degeneration are all possible chronic effects of UV exposure.2 Since you’re likely to be spending a lot of time outside in your glasses, you’ll want to be sure they’re providing 100% protection from UV rays. Don’t worry—all sunglasses and glasses from Eyeconic provide 100% UV protection!
Ball-and-stick sports
Handball, squash, racquetball, tennis, golf, and baseball all hurtle hard objects at high speeds. Non-slip and anti-fogging eyewear will help you keep your eye on the ball. Impact-resistant polycarbonate material coupled with sports-specific designs will keep your peepers safe from incoming objects.Recommended eye protection for baseball, tennis, golf, and similar sports:
- Wraparound sports goggles or glasses with impact-resistant lenses.
- Batting helmets and faceguards with a polycarbonate or Trivex shield.
NIKE SHOW X3 E DJ2032
These glasses from Nike are the perfect choice for a day out on the range, with anti-fogging ventilation and a lightweight, ergonomic design.
Outdoor sports
Swimming, cycling, fishing, running, hunting, skiing, and snowboarding usually take place outside when the sun is shining. For almost all these sports, protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays is key. Reduction of annoying glare and an adequate prescription will ensure you are able to make your way safely through the elements and fully enjoy your adventure sports.Recommended eye protection for outdoor adventures:
- Lightweight, wraparound sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses
- Polarized sunglasses with anti-reflective coating
- Goggles and diving masks
MAUI JIM RED SANDS
Lightweight and durable, these glasses from Maui Jim have everything you’d want in a pair of sports glasses. And thanks to their polarized lenses, you can rest easy knowing your eyes are protected while you’re out enjoying the sunshine.
No matter your age or sport of choice, clear vision and proper eyewear is an important part of your game. Ready to get started? Check out contacts and sunglasses that can help you be a heavy hitter on the field, court, or range.
SHOP EYECONIC CONNECT MY BENEFITS
Information received through VSP Vision Care's social media channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3862938/#:~:text=Every%20year%20%3E%20600%2C000%20sports%20and%20recreation%20related%20eye%20injuries%20occur.&text=About%2042%2C000%20of%20these%20are,in%20permanent%20loss%20of%20sight.
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/articles/how-to-protect-your-eyes-from-uv-damage#:~:text=UV%20light%20ages%20all%20structures,ultimately%20lead%20to%20decreased%20vision.