If your child requires eyeglasses but plays sports, you may think your only option is to switch to contacts while they are playing. Contacts are sometimes challenging for young children to use and depending on the type of sport, they may cause more of a hassle. Instead of worrying about breaking expensive prescription glasses, ask your optometrist about sports glasses instead.
What are Sports Glasses?
Sports glasses, also referred to as sports frames, allow your child to see clearly and perform their best. These come in prescription-strength goggles and other frames to suit your child’s sport.
The Different Types of Sports Glasses Available
There are a variety of sports glasses that eye doctors offer, but some of the most common ones used for youth sports include:
Wraparound Sports Goggles - These are ideal for sports like baseball, basketball and even hockey. They look more like goggles and fit to your child’s face. They not only help your child see clearly, but protect their eyes from elbows, etc. while playing the game.
Polarized Sunglasses - For older children, some outdoor sports may require polarized sunglasses, for sports such as golf, fishing, or track and field.
Prescription Goggles - for sports such as skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling.
Polycarbonate Lenses - These are extremely durable and can come in the form of shield, goggles or eyeglasses. They are ideal for heavy contact sports, such as baseball, football, handball, racquetball and softball.
You will need an appointment at your local optical centre to get prescription sports glasses. During the examination, the optometrist will assess the types of sports your child plays and help you decide which glasses are right for their vision needs. The Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. offers a variety of protective eyewear products for the avid sports player. Whether your child plays hockey, football or likes to snowboard, we can find them the right sports glasses to suit their needs. Contact us at one of our convenient locations to learn more or to book your optometrist visit.