Eye Safety in Sports: How to Protect Your Vision on the Field and Court

When you step onto the field or court, you’re focused on the game—your next move, your strategy, your win. But how often do you think about protecting your vision? For athletes of all ages, safeguarding your eyes is just as important as wearing the right shoes or warming up before a game.

April is Sports Eye Safety Month, a reminder that eye injuries are one of the most preventable sports-related injuries. Whether you’re dribbling down the court at the Elk Grove Aquatic Center or swinging a bat in a Grass Valley Little League game, taking the right precautions can mean the difference between a great play and a serious injury.
 

Why Sports Eye Safety Matters

Sports-related eye injuries send thousands of people to the emergency room each year. From flying elbows in basketball to unexpected impacts in soccer, injuries can happen in a split second. Without the right protection, these injuries can lead to temporary or even permanent vision loss.
 

Wear the Right Protective Eyewear

Regular glasses or sunglasses won’t cut it when it comes to sports. Unlike everyday eyewear, which can easily break upon impact, sports goggles are designed for durability and high-impact resistance, making them an essential piece of gear for any athlete. These goggles wrap securely around your face, preventing them from slipping during intense movement, and provide UV protection, which is especially important for outdoor sports.
 

Consider Prescription Sports Glasses

For athletes who need vision correction, prescription sports glasses or goggles are a game-changer. Not only do they enhance clarity and depth perception, but they also provide the same impact-resistant protection as regular sports eyewear. Without them, athletes may struggle with blurry vision or have to rely on standard glasses, which can easily shatter upon impact, posing an even greater risk of injury. 
 

Use a Face Shield or Helmet Visor

If you're playing baseball, softball, football, or hockey, helmet face guards and polycarbonate visors are essential for protecting your eyes and face from high-speed balls, sticks, or accidental contact. A full-face shield can help absorb impact and disperse the force, reducing the risk of serious eye trauma. For sports like football and lacrosse, a helmet with a shatterproof visor protects against flying debris, sun glare, and unexpected hits. If you wear glasses, look for a helmet that accommodates prescription sports goggles to maintain clear vision without compromising safety.
 

Act Quickly if an Eye Injury Occurs

If you get hit in the eye:

• Don’t rub it – This can worsen the injury

• Apply a cold compress – This helps reduce swelling and pain

• Seek medical attention immediately – A professional evaluation ensures there’s no hidden damage
   

Protect Your Vision – Stay in the Game

At Crystal View Optometry, we care about your eye health—on and off the field. Whether you need prescription sports eyewear, expert advice on protection, or a comprehensive eye exam to make sure your vision is at its best, we’re here for you.
 

Schedule your eye exam with Crystal View Optometry during Sports Eye Safety Month to get fitted for the right protective eyewear and ensure your vision is game-ready! Please call (916) 681-1101 for our office in Elk Grove, or call (530) 272-2238 for our office in Grass Valley.