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Although running is not a visually challenging sport, it does help to have clear comfortable vision. It is important to protect your eyes from stress and fatigue as well as from possible injury due to flying insects and objects, dust, dirt and the sun’s rays.
 
The ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun are absorbed almost totally by the cornea – the transparent, circular, outside, surface layer of the eye – which can be severely sunburned and blistered in the process. The infrared (IR) rays of the sun are partially absorbed by the cornea and the lens of the eye. However, a good portion may get through to the light-sensitive cells of the retina, at the back of the eye, where it can cause burns, permanent scars and some loss of vision. Chronic (long term) exposure to the UV rays of the sun has also been implicated in the development of cataracts and macular degeneration.
 
Your optometrist is the person to contact if you are already wearing glasses or contact lenses. Protecting your eyes may also mean that you need a modified prescription for your glasses or contact lenses, special lens centring or positioning, tints to remove glare or reflections, bifocals (glasses or contact lenses) for viewing specific distances and scratch resistant, coated plastic lenses.
 
If you have normal vision and would like to buy a good quality pair of sunglasses, look for a style that has been designed with sportspeople in mind. Your optometrist can advise you on which style would be the best for your particular sport, and which pair is most likely to help if you’re suffering from any discomfort in your eyes.

More than just a fashion accessory

Here are some suggestions to help you choose the right pair of sports shades:

UV protection – it’s essential

Most sports are conducted outdoors, and in most parts of Australia, this means exposure to harmful UV radiation most days, year-round.

The Optometrists Association of Australia recommends that we all aim to stay out of the sun between the hours of about 10am and 3pm. It’s best to exercise outside before or after these times.

It’s also vital to wear good quality sunglasses that meet Australian Standards when it comes to UV protection. Ask your optometrist to help you select a pair that meet these standards and are recommended for sports use. To ensure maximum protection, the bridge of the glasses should sit close to your eyes (as close as you can get without your eyelashes touching the lenses) and they should also have side protection.

Sports people who spend long periods outside should ensure their glasses not only block UV rays but also reduce glare. Don’t forget that you should also protect the rest of your body with good quality sunscreen, protective clothing and a broad-brimmed hat.

Check the fit

Glasses should fit comfortably, grip well enough to not move around on your face or fall off when you run, jump, shake your head or bend forward but not so tight that they cause discomfort. If they sit on your cheeks they may mist up as the heat increases. Other features to look for are lightweight impact-resistance frames and shatterproof lenses.

Some frames, especially the wraparound type, have a foam sweatband that sits flush against your forehead or eyebrows to prevent sweat running into your eyes. Some have removable nosepieces and adjustable earpieces. Runners who wear glasses can buy a frame that will also hold their prescription lenses (behind the sunglass lenses).

Check the after-sales service

Some of the more reputable manufacturers are prepared to offer an after-sales services, for example, replacing broken parts free of service, and/or lifetime warranties against breakage.

Source: Optometrists Association of Australia.