Eye protection in sport reduces the risk of potentially sight-threatening injuries from balls, equipment, fingers, or environmental hazards. Many sports-related eye injuries are preventable with suitable eyewear.
Risks Without Protection
Fast-moving balls, racquets, and elbows can cause bruising, corneal abrasions, fractures, or internal eye damage. Outdoor sports may also expose eyes to ultraviolet light, dust, and wind.
- Contact and racquet sports carry particularly high injury risk
- Children and young adults are often most affected
- Some injuries lead to permanent loss of vision or long-term complications
- Spectacles not designed for sport may shatter and worsen injury
Choosing Protection
Purpose-designed safety goggles or sports glasses made from impact-resistant materials provide better protection than everyday spectacles. Prescription inserts or lenses can be incorporated where needed.
- Look for products meeting recognised safety standards for the sport
- Ensure a secure, comfortable fit that does not obscure vision
- Use ultraviolet-blocking lenses for outdoor activities
- Replace damaged or badly scratched eyewear promptly
