Athletes from all different backgrounds, levels, and ages are now wearing sports glasses as the demand has increased over the years. The most common types of sports glasses include baseball, football, and hockey glasses, with a variety of lens styles to choose from.
Sports sunglasses what do I need to know?
There are many things an athlete must consider before purchasing new sports eyewear, including material/flexibility, protection level (sunlight), fashion preferences, and personal style. This article discusses four points that may guide the athlete in the right direction when purchasing sports glasses from a retailer.
1. FIT:
When trying on a sports frame, make sure it fits comfortably and snuggly, so it doesn't move too much when you are participating in your sport. The nose piece should sit properly on the ridge of your nose with room for breathing if you wear an anti-fog coating. You don't want to experience any discomfort or difficulty with breathing when wearing new sports glasses during a game.
2. LENS INDEPENDENTLY OF FRAME:
New types of lenses have been introduced in the past few years, including single vision, bifocal, and progressive lens options for athletes looking for accuracy and comfort playing their sport. If you're not sure what you might need, go to a retailer and explain that you require sports glasses for your sport, and they can help guide you in the right direction. For example, prescription inserts remove the hassle of switching lenses on the court/field if you wear contacts during competition.
3. COVERAGE:
If your sport requires full protection from sunlight, such as hiking, sailing or kayaking, it's important for sports eyewear to provide 100% UVA / UVB protection. The lens should be able to resist scratches and smudges over time if properly cared for by cleaning with a microfiber cloth after each use. Some brands offer multi-layer coating with-reflective properties which protect the eyes from the sun's harmful rays.
4. BRANDS:
When investing in sports glasses, it is important to pay attention to the brand name when shopping for new eyewear. Look for reputable brands that provide long-lasting products that meet your specific needs according to activity levels and playing conditions.
Sports Glasses FAQs
Q: What types of sports glasses are available?
A: There are two main types of sports glasses; wrap-around style with full lens protection or smaller framed sunglasses with single vision lenses (usually non-pres). The main difference between these two types of sports glasses is lens material and coverage area.
Q: What is the purpose of having a single vision lens?
A: This type of lens offers accurate and comfortable vision for athletes who play primarily indoors, such as racquetball, squash, and badminton. These lenses should be made from polycarbonate or glass materials which make them lightweight and flexible for added durability while playing your sport. Progressive lenses can also be used with sports eyewear depending on needs, such as reading a scorecard during competition.
Q: What if I need to wear contacts while competing in my sport?
A: You should invest in sports glasses that come equipped with prescription inserts (Rx-able), so you don't have to switch lenses on the court during a game.
