At Pro Optical in Boston, we once treated a weekend cyclist who came in with an eye injury—not from a crash, but from a flying pebble kicked up by a passing car. He had been using standard sunglasses lacking side protection. This served as a painful reminder that safeguarding your eyes during sports involves more than merely shielding them from the sun.
Do sunglasses offer protection from eye injuries during sports? Indeed, they do—provided you select the appropriate type.
Why Eye Injuries Are Common in Sports
Whether it’s a basketball game, a bike ride, or a beach volleyball match, your eyes are at risk of injury. The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports that over 30,000 eye injuries from sports occur in the U.S. every year. About 90% of these injuries can be prevented with the right eyewear.
Common sports eye injuries include:
- Corneal abrasions (scratches on the eye)
- Blunt trauma from balls or elbows
- Foreign objects like sand, dust, or debris
- UV damage from extended outdoor exposure
How Sunglasses Help Prevent Eye Injuries in Sports
Sunglasses aren’t just for style or sun protection—they’re often your first line of defense in fast-paced environments. Here’s how they help:
1. Block Impact from Debris
Sports like cycling, trail running, skiing, and beach sports expose you to airborne particles like dust, sand, and small rocks. Sunglasses with wraparound frames or polycarbonate lenses shield your eyes from sudden impact.
2. Reduce UV Damage
Outdoor athletes are exposed to more ultraviolet (UV) radiation than most people—especially in water, snow, or high altitudes where reflection increases exposure. Over time, this can lead to conditions like photokeratitis, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Look for lenses that have a high UVA/UVB protection to prevent long-term damage.
3. Improve Vision and Reaction Time
Glare from sunlight can slow your reaction time, reduce contrast, and make it harder to judge distance. Polarized sunglasses reduce glare and allow for clearer, more accurate vision, helping athletes respond quickly and safely.
Sunglasses vs. Sports Goggles: Which Is Better?
Sports goggles with impact-rated lenses offer more protection than regular sunglasses for high-impact sports like basketball, racquetball, or hockey. However, for outdoor activities like:
- Running
- Tennis
- Golf
- Cycling
- Skiing
- Fishing
High-quality sports sunglasses with wraparound designs are ideal. They combine protection, performance, and comfort without compromising style or clarity.
What to Look for in Sports Sunglasses
To get full protection and visual performance, choose sunglasses with:
- Shatter-resistant polycarbonate lenses
- Wraparound frames for better coverage
- Anti-fog and scratch-resistant coatings
- Polarized lenses for glare reduction
Prescription sports sunglasses are also available for athletes who need vision correction without compromising safety.
How Pro Optical Helps You Play Safe
At our practice, we help athletes of all ages find the right sunglasses or protective eyewear for their sport. Whether you need prescription lenses, polarized options, or sport-specific frames, we’ll fit you with eyewear that enhances both safety and performance.
Schedule an eye exam or sunglasses fitting at our practice in Boston, and let our team help you protect your vision while you play.