Sports are essential to a healthy lifestyle, promoting physical fitness and mental well-being. However, they also pose risks to various parts of the body, including the eyes. This summer, our Chicago eye care team at Dean Optical would like to take this opportunity to debunk common myths and misconceptions surrounding sports eyewear. By understanding the facts, athletes of all levels can protect their vision while enjoying their favorite activities.
Myth 1: Ordinary Glasses Offer Enough Protection
Fact: Regular prescription glasses cannot withstand or protect against the impact of sports-related accidents. On the other hand, sports eyewear features materials such as polycarbonate, which is ten times more impact-resistant than other plastics or glass. These materials protect against flying objects, falls, and blows to the face and eyes.
Myth 2: Sports Eyewear Is Uncomfortable and Unattractive
Fact: Today's sports glasses have both comfort and style in mind. They come in various designs to suit different face shapes and personal tastes. Features like adjustable straps, padded nose pieces, and ergonomic designs ensure they fit well and stay in place during rigorous activities.
Myth 3: Contact Lenses are Safer Than Glasses for Sports
Fact: While contact lenses offer a wider field of vision and won't fog up or break like glasses, they don't protect against physical injuries. Sports eyewear shields the entire eye, protecting against UV rays, wind, dust, and impact from balls or other players.
Myth 4: Only High-Impact Sports Require Protective Eyewear
Fact: Any sport that involves balls, racquets, or flying objects poses a risk to the eyes. Eye injuries can also occur in sports like basketball, soccer, and baseball, where fingers and elbows come into play. Protective eyewear is essential across various activities to prevent scratches, bruises, or more severe eye damage.
Myth 5: Kids Don’t Need Sports Glasses as Much as Adults
Fact: Children are at higher risk for sports-related eye injuries than adults, and their eyewear needs are just as critical. Youth sports glasses are durable and safe, with features that cater to younger athletes’ comfort and fit.
Myth 6: Prescription Lenses Cannot Fit into Sports Glasses
Fact: Prescription lenses fit into most sports eyewear, ensuring that those needing vision correction do not compromise safety or performance. Technology advancements have made it possible to integrate corrective lenses with protective features seamlessly.
Myth 7: UV Protection Isn’t Important in Sports Eyewear
Fact: Ultraviolet (UV) protection is crucial for outdoor sports. Exposure to UV rays can lead to serious eye conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Good sports eyewear will offer 100% UV protection, even on cloudy days when UV rays can be just as harmful.
Make Informed Choices for Eye Safety
By debunking these myths, athletes and fitness enthusiasts can make informed decisions about their eye protection. Remember, investing in a good pair of sports eyewear is an investment in your long-term vision health. Stay safe and stay active.