Participating in sport is one of the best ways to maintain physical fitness, boost mental health, and socialise. Whether you are an avid squash player, a weekend cricketer, or someone who enjoys a casual game of badminton, the benefits are undeniable.
However, amidst the excitement of competition and the rush of endorphins, it is easy to overlook a critical aspect of safety: your eyesight.
Eye injuries in sport are surprisingly common, yet the vast majority are entirely preventable. It is estimated that thousands of sports-related eye injuries occur in the UK every year, ranging from minor scratches to permanent sight loss. The thought of losing your vision is undoubtedly frightening, but taking the right precautions does not mean you have to sacrifice your enjoyment of the game.
By understanding the risks and investing in the correct protective gear, you can safeguard your vision for years to come. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prioritise your eye health while staying active.
Understanding the risks: Why sports eye injuries happen
Before we discuss prevention, it is helpful to understand the nature of the threat. Sports eye injuries generally fall into three categories: blunt trauma, penetrating injuries, and radiation injury.
Blunt trauma is the most common form of injury. This occurs when something hits the eye with force but does not cut the skin. In sports, this is typically a ball, a shuttlecock, or even an opponent’s elbow. According to data from Moorfields Eye Hospital, blunt force is a leading cause of emergency admissions for sports injuries, potentially causing orbital fractures or retinal detachment.
Penetrating injuries occur when an object cuts into the eye. This could be from shattered spectacles that were not designed for impact, or equipment like a fencing foil. While less common, these injuries are often severe.
Radiation injuries are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. This is a particular risk for sports played in bright sunlight, such as skiing or sailing, where UV rays reflect off snow or water.
High-risk activities
Not all sports carry the same level of risk. The Association of Optometrists classifies sports based on the likelihood of eye injury. High-risk sports typically involve small, fast-moving projectiles or close physical contact.
Squash is notoriously dangerous for the eyes due to the size of the ball, which fits perfectly into the eye socket, delivering a high-impact blow directly to the globe. Similarly, cricket, badminton, and rugby pose significant risks without adequate protection.
Actionable steps to prevent sports eye injuries
Protecting your vision requires a proactive approach. It is not enough to simply hope for the best; you must ensure your equipment is up to standard.
Here are the essential steps you should take to keep your eyes safe.
1. Invest in polycarbonate lenses
The most important step you can take is to wear appropriate protective eyewear. Regular prescription glasses or fashion sunglasses are not safe for sports. In fact, upon impact, standard glass or plastic lenses can shatter, sending shards into the eye and causing catastrophic damage.
You should look for sports goggles or glasses made with polycarbonate lenses. Polycarbonate is a durable, impact-resistant thermoplastic that is significantly stronger than standard lens materials. It is designed to withstand the force of a fast-moving ball or a collision without shattering.
2. Check for safety standards
When purchasing eye protection, ensure it meets the relevant safety standards. In the UK, look for the BS EN 166 standard for personal eye protection.
For specific sports like squash, specialised eyewear has been developed to meet rigorous testing requirements. The College of Optometrists provides detailed guidance on which standards apply to different sporting activities, ensuring you buy gear that is fit for purpose.
3. Ensure a secure fit
Protective eyewear is useless if it falls off during a crucial moment. Your sports glasses should have a secure, comfortable fit.
Look for frames with a rubber strap or a wrap-around design that grips the head. This prevents the glasses from slipping down your nose when you sweat or being knocked off during contact.
If you wear prescription lenses, you can purchase prescription sports goggles. Alternatively, many athletes use contact lenses with non-prescription protective goggles over the top. However, keep in mind that contact lenses alone offer zero protection against impact.
4. Don’t ignore UV protection
For outdoor enthusiasts, UV protection is vital. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to photokeratitis (a painful condition akin to sunburn of the cornea) and long-term issues like cataracts.
Ensure your sports sunglasses offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. This is especially critical for winter sports enthusiasts. According to the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, doubling your exposure and increasing the risk of snow blindness.
5. First aid preparedness
Despite our best efforts, accidents can happen. Knowing how to react immediately can save your sight.
If you sustain an eye injury, stop playing immediately. Do not rub the eye, as this can worsen abrasions or drive foreign bodies deeper. Seek professional medical attention without delay. Services like NHS 111 can direct you to the nearest emergency eye clinic.
Comparison of sports and risk levels
To help you assess the level of protection you need, we have compiled a comparison of common sports and their associated eye injury risks.
| Sport | Risk Level | Primary Hazard | Recommended Protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Squash | Very High | Fast-moving ball fitting eye socket | Polycarbonate impact goggles (Mandatory in many leagues) |
| Cricket | High | Hard, heavy ball impact | Helmet with faceguard; impact-resistant glasses for fielders |
| Badminton | High | Shuttlecock impact at close range | Polycarbonate sports glasses |
| Rugby | Moderate | Fingers/elbows in the eye | IRB-approved goggles (specifically designed for contact) |
| Football | Moderate | Impact from ball or opponent | Sports goggles with head strap |
| Swimming | Low (Trauma) | Chlorine irritation / Bacteria | Watertight swimming goggles |
| Skiing | High (Radiation) | UV reflection / Debris | UV400 ski goggles |
Common symptoms of an eye injury
It is not always immediately obvious when serious damage has occurred. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some internal eye injuries do not show external signs instantly.
Be vigilant for the following symptoms after a knock to the head or eye:
- Visual disturbances: This includes blurred vision, double vision, or floating black spots (floaters).
- Loss of vision: Any partial or total loss of sight, even if temporary, is a medical emergency.
- Visible abnormalities: Blood in the clear part of the eye (hyphema), a distorted pupil shape, or severe swelling of the eyelid.
- Pain and sensitivity: Severe pain when moving the eye or extreme sensitivity to light.
If you experience flashing lights or a curtain-like shadow across your vision, this could indicate a retinal detachment. As noted by Healthline, prompt treatment is essential to prevent permanent blindness in these cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just wear my normal distance glasses for squash?
No. Standard frames and lenses can shatter on impact, causing severe penetrating injuries. You must wear specific impact-resistant sports eyewear.
Are contact lenses safe for sports?
Contact lenses are great for vision correction and peripheral vision, but they provide no physical protection. You should always wear polycarbonate goggles over your contact lenses.
What should I do if I get sand or grit in my eye during a game?
Do not rub your eye. Blink several times to allow tears to wash the particle out. If it remains, use a sterile saline solution or tap water to flush the eye. If irritation persists, seek help from St John Ambulance or a medical professional.
Is it worth buying prescription sports goggles?
Yes. While they can be an investment, they offer the safest combination of clear vision and physical protection. Many opticians can glaze high-curved sports frames with your prescription.
Do children need eye protection for school sports?
Absolutely. Children are often less coordinated than adults and more prone to miss-timing catches. The Eyecare Trust recommends that schools and parents prioritise eye protection to prevent childhood eye trauma.
The Bottom Line
Sports are a fantastic way to stay healthy and active, but they should never come at the cost of your vision. The vast majority of sports-related eye injuries can be prevented with the right equipment and a bit of foresight.
Remember to prioritise polycarbonate lenses for impact resistance and ensure your eyewear meets British Safety Standards. Whether you are on the rugby pitch, the squash court, or the ski slopes, the right protection allows you to play with confidence.
If you do suffer an injury, never ignore it. Quick action and professional care from the Health and Safety Executive guidelines or local emergency services can make the difference between a full recovery and permanent damage.
Protecting your eyes is a team effort between you, your optician, and your coaches. Make eye safety part of your kit bag today.
