When it comes to sports, athletes go to great lengths to protect their bodies from injuries. Helmets, pads, and mouthguards are all standard gear in most sports, but one area that is often overlooked is eye protection. Many sports put athletes at risk for eye injuries, which can lead to permanent damage to the eye or even blindness. That's why safety eyewear for sports is not only necessary but essential.

The Importance of Safety Eyewear for Sports

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, there are approximately 40,000 sports-related eye injuries every year in the United States. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to serious damage, such as a detached retina or a fractured eye socket. In some cases, these injuries can result in permanent vision loss.

Sports that are considered high-risk for eye injuries include hockey and racquet sports such as tennis, squash and pickleball. Eye injuries in racquet sports are more common than you might think. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has identified squash, tennis, and racquetball as sports with a high risk of eye injury. Here are some things you should know about eye injuries in these sports:

1. Squash: In squash, the ball can reach speeds of up to 170 mph, which makes it a serious hazard for players not wearing protective eyewear. Eye injuries in squash can occur from being hit directly in the eye with the ball or from getting hit with a racquet during play. Squash players should always wear protective eyewear that meets the appropriate safety standards.

2. Tennis: While the tennis ball is not as fast as the squash ball, it can still cause serious eye injuries. In tennis, eye injuries can occur from being hit directly in the eye with the ball or from getting hit with a racquet during play. Tennis players should also wear protective eyewear that meets the appropriate safety standards.

3. Pickleball: Pickleball is a relatively new sport that has gained popularity in recent years. It's played on a smaller court than tennis, but the ball can still travel at high speeds. Eye injuries in pickleball can occur from being hit directly in the eye with the ball or from getting hit with a paddle during play. Like in squash and tennis, protective eyewear is highly recommended for pickleball players. Pickleball is commonly played in a gym setting as well as outdoors at community courts. High-performance protective eyewear should be designed to be functional in all lighting conditions.

4. In hockey, the puck can travel up to 100 mph, and players can get hit with sticks, causing serious eye injuries. The recommendation is that players wear a protective cage on their helmet when playing hockey or, at the very minimum, a visor.

Eyewear for Sports vs. Regular Eyewear

Eyewear designed for sports is different from regular eyewear in several ways. First, sports eyewear is designed to be more durable and impact-resistant. It can withstand the force of a ball or puck hitting it without breaking, protecting the eye from injury. Second, sports eyewear is designed to stay in place during physical activity. It's important that the eyewear doesn't move or shift during play, as this can cause it to become a hazard to the player.

The frames are also designed to only allow the lens to be inserted from the front, preventing the lens from being pushed through the frame in the case of an impact.

Sun Protection for Eye Health

Sun protection is also essential for the health of our eyes. Overexposure to the sun's harmful UV rays can cause damage to the eyes, including cataracts and macular degeneration. That's why it's important to wear sunglasses that provide adequate protection against UV rays when playing outdoor sports.

When choosing sunglasses for sports, look for a pair that is designed for athletic activity. They should fit snugly on the face and provide full coverage, including the sides. Polarized lenses can help reduce glare and improve visibility in bright sunlight. Additionally, some sports sunglasses come with interchangeable lenses, allowing you to switch between different tints depending on the lighting conditions.

Safety eyewear for sports is essential for protecting athletes' eyes from injury. Eye injuries are common in many sports, and they can have serious consequences. Sports eyewear is designed to be more durable and impact-resistant than regular eyewear, and it's important to choose a pair that fits well and stays in place during play. Sun protection is also essential for eye health, and athletes should wear sunglasses designed for sports that provide adequate protection against UV rays. Protecting our eyes during sports is just as important as protecting the rest of our body, and investing in the right eyewear can make all the difference.

Protective Prescription Eyewear for Sports in Edmonton

Helio Optometry help people of all ages achieve better vision. We diagnose and treat various eye conditions, then get them the special eyeglasses or contacts they need so they have clear, comfortable vision in work, life and play. Contact us at 780-628-6855 to book an appointment at our new eye care clinic located in West Edmonton on 149th Street and 95th Ave. We anchor the communities of Crestwood, Parkview, Sherwood and Jasper Gats.