There's More To Sports Eyewear Than Meets The Eye
Author: Rachel Roberts
With more and more people participating in outdoor and
extreme
sports adequate eye protection is a must. The two biggest
dangers to the eyes in this environment are ultra violet
(UV)
light from the sun and impact from a direct blow to the
face.
The safety aspect of sports eyewear, however, is not solely
the
concern of the elite or extreme sports person. Sports people
at
all levels are wise to take some time in considering the
type of
sports eyewear they choose. With sports participation
becoming
more and more popular the demand for expertise in sports
vision
is increasing.
Eye Safety Both elite and recreational sports enthusiasts
need
to ensure that their sports sunglasses offer one hundred
percent
protection from harmful UVA and UVB light as well as being
impact resistant in case of mishaps! These are features that
many 'fashion' sunglasses lack. For this reason fashion
sunglasses should never be worn during sport. They are
unlikely
to withstand impact and may shatter causing eye or facial
injury. The ideal material for sports eyewear is
polycarbonate
which is a thermoplastic polymer. This material is
lightweight
and has excellent impact resistance.
Always check the label on any sports sunglasses to ensure
that
the lenses offer maximum UV protection. Exposing the eye to
UV
light can contribute to the development of cataracts, eye
tumours and macular degeneration. The eye can even get
'sunburn'
- a condition known as 'keratitis'. This is especially a
concern
in sports during which the eye is exposed to excessive
reflected
light such as skiing, snowboarding and water sports. UV
bounces
off snow and water even on cloudy days therefore it is
important
to always wear tinted goggles or sports sunglasses during
these
sports. Polarised lenses are the best choice for these
sports as
they absorb about ninety eight percent of reflected glare.
Swimming goggles are now available with tinted or mirrored
lenses to reduce glare in outdoor swimming and other water
sports.
Sports sunglasses are also designed with features to make
sure
they stay on your face! This may sound like an obvious point
but
it is an important safety consideration. Rubber non-slip
temple
and nose grips are common features of sports sunglasses.
Most
are available with inexpensive rubber head straps to further
increase security.
A safety feature of skiing goggles is anti-fogging
properties.
Not only is fogging a huge frustration for skiers and
snowboarders, it can lead to potential accidents and injury.
Double lenses, anti-fog coating and controllable vents are
features to look for in goggles.
You wouldn't wear your regular footwear for sport so why
wear
your regular sunglasses! Some Optometrists are now
specialising
in sports vision and are best placed to offer specific
advice
regarding the safety aspect of sports eyewear. Your eyes are
precious and vulnerable - protect them well and enjoy your
sport!
About the Author
Rachel Roberts operates Sport Spex.
Online retailers of quality sports eyewear. Her husband, Adam is
a qualified Sports Optometrist and offers free online sports
vision advice
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