As the cold of winter starts to slip away, many welcome the warm sunshine of spring and summer with open arms and more time spent outside. As more individuals start to head outdoors, athletic events start to pop up in schools and leagues around the community. Sports are a great way to stay in shape and have some fun, but participation can also lead to injuries. The month of April has been designated as Sports Eye Safety Month by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and you can ensure you are supporting eye safety with prescription sports glasses.
The Need for Eyewear for Everyone
There are tens of thousands of eye injuries that happen each year as a direct result of sports activities. For almost 90% of these injuries, prescription glasses designed for use during exercise, outdoor hobbies or other athletic activities can be a preventative. Safety eyewear isn’t just for outdoor activities, either. Vision needs to be protected both indoors and out.
In children, eye injuries are the primary cause of blindness, and these most often occur in school-aged children during sports-related activities. Softball, basketball and water sports are the most frequent activities, though the risks of eye injuries are present in any athletic activity. In adults, basketball, water sports and bicycles are leading causes of eye injuries.
The Types of Eye Injuries
Corneal injuries, such as lacerations or scratches on the outer surface of the eye, can occur from debris or particles flying into the eye. An orbital fracture is more severe, with impact from an object or collision causing broken bones around the eye. Jarring motions can lead to a torn or detached retina, which is where the back portion of the eye that is light sensitive can get pulled out of place. Some injuries can lead to long-term damage, such as retinal detachments, cataracts and glaucoma.
The Prevention of Injuries
In light of the heightened awareness of the need for eye protection, here are a few suggestions for protective eyewear. Remember, children and adults alike need sports glasses to aid in eye injury prevention.
- Safety Goggles: Also called lenses polycarbonate protectors, these help protect those who wear contact lenses. Goggles can even be worn over eyeglasses. Look for an ANSI rating that guarantees high impact resistance.
- Face Shields: Some sports may require more complete facial protection, and face shields are often used in hockey, softball and baseball. However, these can get cumbersome and hard to wear.
- Prescription Sports Glasses: In addition to impact-resistant sports glasses, UV-blocking sunglasses can protect the eyes from damaging rays of the sun. These injuries may not show up right away, but they are still a serious factor of long-term damage.
Safety Gear Pro carries options for children and adults who want to protect their eyes during sports participation. Order your pair today!
FAQs
Where Do I Order Protective Sports Eyewear?
To fully protect your eyes, you want eyewear that is rated for impact and shatter resistance, as well as UV blocking. For those who need corrective lenses, Safety Gear carries multiple safety options that can be outfitted with your prescription. Online ordering makes the process convenient and easy.
Are There Childrens Prescription Sports Glasses?
Safety Gear Pro recognizes that safety first is a commitment an entire family should make, right down to the little ones playing tee ball. Our products are kid-friendly, with colors and styles that keep your little athlete looking great while staying safe on the field.
What Are the Features of Sports Glasses?
In addition to style and color, athletic safety eyewear can be ordered with scratch and impact-resistant lenses, anti-glare coating, have frames that use a strap system and have shock absorption properties. Sun protection comes from UV blockage and frames with a wraparound style.
What Size of Glasses Do I Order?
The type of frame you select should take your head shape and size into account. Prescription lenses must sit on the face comfortably, but the lenses need to line up correctly with the eye to provide maximum corrective power. Safety Gear Pro includes the frame and lens sizes on all product descriptions.
How Often Do I Order New Glasses?
As your prescription changes, you should order new glasses with the correct vision aid. It is also wise to update your glasses every two years or so, as manufacturers are continually looking for ways to improve their products. Any damage to the frame or lenses is grounds for replacement as well.
