Whether it’s footy, cricket, basketball, or swimming, sport is a big part of Aussie life. But while we think about helmets, mouthguards, and shin pads, eye protection is often overlooked. Eye injuries are surprisingly common in sport - and many are preventable with the right eyewear.
Common Eye Injuries in Sport
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Corneal Abrasions (scratches on the front of the eye)
– Caused by fingers, dirt, or contact with equipment like balls or racquets.
– Can be very painful and have significant risk of infection and even vision loss from scarring. -
Blunt Trauma
– A direct hit from a ball, elbow, or bat can lead to bruising around the eye (a “black eye”) or more serious internal damage. -
Orbital Fractures
– Fractures of the bones surrounding the eye, often from high-impact collisions. -
Retinal Injuries
– Severe impact can sometimes cause retinal detachment, a serious condition that can threaten vision if not treated quickly, usually with urgent surgery. -
UV Damage
– Prolonged outdoor play without UV protection can contribute to long-term conditions like cataracts or macular degeneration.
How Sports Eyewear Helps Prevent Eye Injuries
Prescription or non-prescription sports eyewear is specifically designed to handle the demands of sport, offering:
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Impact Resistance – Polycarbonate or Trivex lenses resist shattering, protecting your eyes from sudden impacts.
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Secure Fit – Adjustable straps or wraparound frames keep glasses in place during high-movement activities.
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Full Coverage – Larger lens areas and protective side shields reduce exposure to fingers, balls, and debris.
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UV Protection – Blocks 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays during outdoor sport.
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Anti-Fog Technology – Keeps vision clear during intense activity, especially in swimming, skiing, or cycling.
Sports Where Eyewear Is Essential
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Basketball & Netball – Protects against pokes and elbows.
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Football & Rugby – Minimises risk of trauma from collisions.
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Tennis, Squash & Cricket – Guards against high-speed balls.
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Swimming – Prescription goggles ensure clear vision without the risk of infection with contact lenses.
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Cycling & Running – Shields eyes from UV, dust, and wind.
Why Choose Eyesports®?
At Eyesports, we specialise in prescription sports glasses and goggles for adults and kids. From impact-resistant goggles for juniors to wrap-around cycling frames and swimming goggles, all our eyewear is designed with safety and performance in mind. Plus, we’re a registered Australian health fund provider, so prescription options may be claimable under your extras cover.
Final Word
Eye injuries in sport can be painful, costly, and in some cases, permanently damaging. The good news? The right eyewear dramatically reduces the risk. Whether you’re playing at school, at the local club, or at an elite level, protecting your eyes should be as important as protecting your head or teeth.
👉 Explore our full range of sports prescription glasses and goggles here.
