Despite the weather this summer, there’s still been a lot of sporting tournaments: The Euros, Wimbledon, The Olympics to name but a few and this seems to inspire a lot of people to get out of doors and join in! This is generally great for fitness and health but can be frustrating and potentially dangerous if you’re a glasses wearer.
Did you know you can have your prescription put into a whole assortment of sports eyewear? Swimming Goggles, diving masks, cycling sunglasses, squash goggles, ski masks and sports goggles for cricket or football.
Get the right product and advice from your optician and they can help protect your eyes. In general, plastic or CR39, polycarbonate or Trivex are advised as they are safer and stronger than glass.
Some conventional spectacle frames can be suitable for non -contact sports however most metal frames with their adjustable nose pads are not suitable. A frame used for sports should cover the orbit, the bony rim round your eye, and be worn with a sports band attachment. The bridge of the frame should sit snugly around the bridge of the nose. There are wrap-around frames with full cushioning which are purpose-designed for sport and will give optimum safety and comfort.
Some products are available quickly and at a very low cost, for example: ready-to- wear swimming goggles can be made in a simple approximation of your prescription. Although your vision may not be perfect it does mean that you don’t follow the wrong family up the stairs to the flume! If necessary, a more bespoke goggle can be ordered.
Diving masks can be made for snorkelling or deep -sea diving and there are many options for cycling, including different coloured frames and interchangeable lenses for different weather conditions.
The majority of sports are played outside so don’t forget protection from UV is needed. There are three types: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC is absorbed by the ozone layer and does not reach the earth, but the other types of UV light are linked to possible cataract formation, skin cancer and/or retinal damage with long term exposure. A good pair of protective eyewear can cut those risks so you can enjoy the sports you love without worrying about your eyes.
