Many sports today are high-risk enough that protective equipment is necessary, so sports glasses have become quite common in the athletic world. Sports glasses are comprised of frames and lenses that are designed to be shatterproof and to take an impact that would otherwise strike the eyes or the surrounding area. Other types of sports glasses are prescription eyewear for people who regularly wear glasses. These prescription glasses are also shatterproof and, in some cases, resistant to fogging. They are often secured to the head by a headband made from elastic material, and the lenses can be changed as one’s prescription strength changes.
Protective sports glasses often feature polycarbonate lenses, which are shatterproof and more resistant to scratching than some plastics and glass. The shatterproof quality is essential, especially in racket sports in which a direct impact to the eyes is possible. The frames can be made from a variety of materials, from plastic to carbon fiber. The more shatter-resistant, the better, as shards of material can become lodged in the eye if an impact does occur. The arms that rest on the ears are often made from some sort of rubber that will prevent the glasses from moving too much during athletic activity.
Goggles are another form of sports glasses meant for certain sports in which high winds or blowing debris may be a factor. Ski goggles are perhaps the most common goggles on the market, but motocross riders also commonly wear googles as their choice for sports glasses. Many goggles feature mud guards that can be peeled off of the face of the goggles to give the user a clear view after being splashed with mud and debris. Goggles are often padded to provide comfort around the face, and the strap is elastic so it can be fit over a helmet as well as around the bare head.
Cyclists and runners wear sports glasses for more than just protection. Athletic glasses often feature interchangeable lenses that can block UV rays from the sun, or even enhance visibility in low light. They will further help block wind when cyclists or runners reach higher speeds. This will help maintain visibility and prevent the eyes from tearing up when struck with wind. Mountain bikers will use glasses to protect the eyes from stray branches, debris, and wind as well. The glasses in these cases are often ergonomically and aerodynamically designed to fit well and prevent glare and wind from hitting the eyes.