Around 90 percent of sports-related eye injuries could be prevented by wearing proper safety eyewear. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) has recommended specific types of eye gear for different sports. These include safety goggles and eye guards with lenses made from polycarbonate, a durable, shatterproof material. 

Here are tips for choosing the right sports eye safety gear from a trusted optometrist. 

What to Look for in Your Sports Eyewear

There are different types of goggles depending on the sport. For example, goggles for racquet sports are different than those for basketball and soccer. Some protective gear is made to fit in helmets for football, baseball and hockey use. 

The lenses in sports eyewear are commonly made of polycarbonate. This material excels in impact resistance and can also protect your eyes from rapidly moving objects. It has also built-in ultraviolet protection, which is beneficial if you participate in outdoor sports. 

To ensure you choose the right lenses for your eyewear, visit your eye care provider for an eye exam. Aside from lenses, you also need to consider the frame of your sports eyewear. Frames for sports eye gear feature impact-resistant materials and come with rubber padding to cushion the frame.  

Protective Eyewear for Your Sport

You’ll need safety goggles with polycarbonate lenses when participating in sports like baseball, softball, basketball, mountain biking, racquetball and squash. For sports like hockey and tackle football, you should wear a helmet with an attached polycarbonate face guard or mask. If you’re surfing, playing water polo or water skiing, you’ll need safety swim goggles with polycarbonate lenses. 

You can rely on Spectrum Eye Care for your eyewear needs. We offer a wide range of eye care services including LASIK eye surgery, dry eye treatment and special eye testing. Give us a call at (704) 543-9000 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment.