Sports Prescription Glasses vs. Regular Eyewear: Which Is Right for You?
Playing sports can pose a risk to your eyes. The balls and equipment can hit your eyes. Many eye doctors recommend wearing protective eyewear. It helps avoid damage to your eyes. But what kind should you get? You must choose between regular glasses and specialized sports eyewear.
Regular glasses are the kind people wear every day. Sports eyewear is made just for playing sports. Sports eyewear protects your eyes better from injuries. A ball or elbow could hit the glasses when you play. That could hurt your eyes. Sports eyewear features stronger lenses, enhancing eye safety. The frames also fit tighter so the glasses stay on better.
You need to make a decision. Should you use your regular glasses? Or sunglasses? Or buy special sports prescription glasses? Sports eyewear comes at a higher cost, but it offers better eye protection. You have to think about how much protection you need when you play sports. Then decide which type of eyewear is best for you.
Here’s a look at the differences to help you decide which is right for your needs.
The Importance of Protective Eyewear for Sports
Eye injuries are a common occurrence during sports activities. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, there are an estimated 42,000 sports-related eye injuries in the United States each year. These eye injuries occur annually in the United States. Ninety percent of these injuries can be prevented by wearing suitable protective eyewear.
Data Source: American Academy of Ophthalmology
Some of the most common sports-related eye injuries include:
- Corneal abrasions – Scratches on the front surface of the eye.
- Hyphemas – Bleeding inside the front of the eye.
- Retinal detachments – The retina at the back of the eye pulls away.
- Orbital fractures – Breaks in the bones surrounding the eye.
Blunt force is typically the cause of injuries resulting from impacts such as balls, equipment, elbows, or contact with other players. These injuries can range from temporary irritation to permanent vision impairment.
The use of eye protection significantly reduces both the risk and severity of sports-related eye injuries.
But not all glasses and goggles provide equal protection. The right type of eyewear depends on the sport and intensity of activity.
Key Differences Between Regular and Sports Eyewear
Regular prescription glass and sunglasses may work fine for moderate activities. These activities include walking or casual play. But for more intense sports, specialized protective eyewear designed for athletics performs better.
Here are some of the key differences:
Lens Material
- Regular: Plastic or polycarbonate lenses.
- Sports: Impact-resistant polycarbonate or Trivex lenses.
Frame Design
- Regular: Fashionable frames with bendable metal and plastic.
- Sports: Durable wraparound frames made from flexible plastics.
Temples
- Regular: Thin bendable temples.
- Sports: Thicker straight temples for improved retention.
Nose Bridge
- Regular: Adjustable nose pads.
- Sports: Non-slip rubber nose bridge.
Lenses
- Regular: Static prescription lenses.
- Sports: Interchangeable lenses with customizable Rx.
Fit
- Regular: Variable fit depending on frame size.
- Sports: Secure wrap-around fit with head strap.
Coatings
- Regular: Basic UV protection.
- Sports: Advanced coatings to reduce glare and enhance vision.
Ventilation
- Regular: Limited ventilation.
- Sports: Optimized airflow from vented lenses.
Sports eyewear has special features. These include the lenses, frames, and straps. These are designed for sports that need safety and high performance.
Benefits of Using Prescription Sports Eyewear
Prescription sports glasses and goggles are designed for sports. They help you see like regular glasses. They also give extra benefits:
Enhanced Protection
The lenses in sports glasses are made to handle hits from balls, gear, and other hazards well. The frames are also made to be more durable than normal glasses.
Reduced Risk of Injury
The wrap-around fit keeps them on tight. The strong frames stop them from slipping. Bendable parts also lower the chance of eye injury.
UV Ray Protection
Special lens coatings block 100% of UVA/UVB rays to protect eyes from sun exposure.
Glare Reduction
Anti-reflective and polarized lens options reduce glare and eye fatigue from bright light.
Customized Vision
Interchangeable, snap-in Rx lenses allow you to customize your vision correction for different activities and conditions.
Improved Visibility
Optical precision and advanced lens treatments optimize vision, contrast, and depth perception.
Ventilation
Vents in frames and lenses prevent fogging and condensation for clearer vision.
Comfort
Lightweight frames, adjustable parts, and soft padding provide long-lasting comfort.
Opting for prescription sports eyewear over regular glasses provides the necessary vision correction while maximizing protection and performance.
Recommended Sports Eyewear by Activity
Certain sports require specific styles of prescription eyewear, depending on the level of impact risk and the types of hazards involved.
Racquet Sports
- Rx goggles with eye shields for tennis, racquetball, squash, etc.
Baseball/Softball
- Batting helmet with attached Rx shield.
- Strap-on sports glasses with side protection.
Basketball
- Basketball goggles with open ventilation.
- Full-rim sports glasses.
Hockey
- Hockey helmet with cage and visor.
- Interchangeable Rx lens inserts.
Soccer
- Soccer goggles with head strap.
- Wraparound sports glasses.
Water Sports
- Swimming goggles with Rx insert.
- Watersport goggles with sealing skin.
Winter Sports
- OTG ski goggles for wearing over glasses.
- Foam-lined snowboard goggles.
Any activity with heavy physical contact or ball impact should use more comprehensive protection like sports glasses or goggles versus basic eyewear.
Kids and Sports Eyewear
It’s especially important for children to wear appropriate eye protection when playing sports. Their eyes are still developing and more susceptible to injury.
Look for kids sports eyewear that offers:
- Durable polycarbonate lenses.
- Flexible frames with head strap.
- Customizable prescriptions.
- UV and glare protection.
- Anti-fog coatings.
Also, ensure the eyewear fits properly and remains securely in place when running and playing. A pediatric optometrist can recommend the best sports eyewear options for children.
Making the Right Choice for Your Needs
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing between regular eyewear and sports prescription models:
- The intensity level of your activity – Higher-intensity sports need enhanced impact protection.
- The frequency you participate – Frequent intense activity warrants sports eyewear.
- Specific hazards in your sport – Match eyewear protection to the hazards.
- Prescription needs – Sports eyewear offers interchangeable, customized Rx lenses.
- Kids or adults – Kids need more durable, secure-fitting eyewear.
- Glasses vs contacts – Glasses provide better eye protection than contacts alone.
Consideration of these criteria will assist you in choosing the right eyewear to fulfill your vision, safety, and performance requirements. Additionally, an eye care specialist can assist you in making an informed choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wear contacts or glasses for sports?
For most sports, glasses provide better protection. But some athletes prefer Rx contacts with sports goggles for a wide field of vision.
Do I really need prescription goggles or sports glasses?
It depends on your sport and prescription strength. More vigorous sports with a higher risk of eye injury warrant sports-specific eyewear.
Can I use non-prescription sports goggles over my existing glasses?
Yes, many sports goggles, like ski goggles, are designed to be worn over glasses. Make sure they fit comfortably without pressing on frames.
Are there goggles that can go over laser eye surgery correction?
Yes, you can get goggles with large cavities to wear over your eyes after LASIK surgery. Let your surgeon know you play sports.
What’s the difference between sports glasses and goggles?
Glasses have open rims all around the lenses while goggles have foam padding that contacts the face for a tighter seal. Goggles offer more comprehensive protection.
Conclusion
Sports eyewear gives better vision, safety, comfort, and how well you play sports. Prescription sports eyewear lets you get eye protection and helps to see.
Consider the intensity and frequency of your sport, as well as your visual needs. This helps choose between regular eyewear and sports eyewear. With the right eyewear, you can play your best and protect your eyes.
