Almost any sport carries the risk of eye injuries, which is why protective goggles are a necessity for everyone from professional athletes to little league players. Made from advanced shatterproof material designed to withstand hard impacts, goggles could prevent many of the 30,000 sports-related injuries eye doctors treat every year. Knowing when to invest in this essential safety gear can help you avoid permanent injuries and may even improve your performance.

3 Times You Need to Wear Sports Goggles

1. Your Activity Involves Close Contact With Others

Not all sports-related eye injuries are caused by flying projectiles or equipment. Every year, eye doctors treat thousands of people who’ve been poked or jabbed by a finger, elbow, or foot. This is why basketball players and swimmers suffer a disproportionate share of eye injuries.

2. You’re Playing High-Speed Sports

Many sports involve projectiles that travel at high rates of speed, capable of causing severe, even permanent eye damage. Tennis balls and badminton birdies can fly in excess of 60 mph, while racquetballs can speed toward your head at over 200 mph. Even if you’re not hit by a ball or hockey puck, an impact by a racquet, stick, or bat can be just as dangerous.

3. You Wear Glasses

Most athletes who wear corrective lenses prefer not to take their glasses out on the field. While this protects your expensive eyewear, it doesn’t hamper your ability to see what’s going on. Prescription sports goggles can give you the perfect vision you need to excel, improving your performance and potentially helping you avoid accidents and injuries.

Whether you’re signing your kids up for a sports league or like to play on the weekends, Eric G. Stocker, OD will help find the protective eyewear you need. For nearly 30 years, this trusted eye doctor has been serving patients throughout Ohio’s Lorain County, providing compassionate care and effective treatment using the most advanced equipment in the industry. Visit their website for a look at their eyewear and protective lenses, and call (440) 988-4419 to make your first appointment with an experienced eye doctor today.