Gear Up This Spring

Although winter weather will continue to stick around for a while, the start of March signals change forthcoming with the transition from winter to spring and also the upcoming sports season.  As March Madness begins, its start signals the end of basketball season and the start of baseball, track and field, tennis, lacrosse and other traditional spring sports played outside.

As athletes gear up and begin practice outdoors, it is important to wear the right gear for the game and protect your eyes.  According to Geteyesmart.org there are tens of thousands of sports and recreational eye injuries each year.  Ninety-percent of these injuries are preventable according to the site which is why proper athletic gear is important to wear.  Eyeglasses are not enough to protect the eyes in athletic activities.

The top three sports that produce the most eye injuries are baseball, basketball, and racquet ball.  It is suggested that for sports like baseball, hockey, and lacrosse that a polycarbonate helmet with wire shield or face mask be worn to protect the head and the eyes.  For other close contact sports like basketball, racquet ball, and soccer, eyewear with polycarbonate lenses is suggested by Geteyesmart.org and Indiana eye doctors like Dr. Tavel. 

By covering the eyes with polycarbonate lenses (tough, shatterproof and light weight), athletes are able to make their moves on and off the field and be protected from dangerous injuries.  Protective eye wear is the number one way to ensure eyes are safe during the game.  Contact lenses are popular among athletes especially younger athletes but these sports stars should remember to wear other protective eye wear to ensure debris stays of the eyes as well as bring contact solution and glasses to practice for last minute needs.

Gear up this spring and protect your eyes along the way with protective eyewear!