Had a Sporty Summer?

Sep 20, 2015 in Eye Care

Had a Sporty Summer?

We have had a truly wonderful summer, full of holidays, picnics and barbeques – anything that kept you outdoors enjoying the glorious weather. Summer may be almost over, but the danger from the sun's harmful rays is still present as we move into Autumn. Here are some things you need to remember before you head outdoors for sporting events and activities, such as walking, golf, rugby, biking, tennis, and more.

Stay Sun Safe

Whether you’re hiking in the Lake District or playing a round of tennis with your mates, remember that you’re being exposed to the sun’s UV rays. It’s not just your skin that bears the brunt of it, but your eyes are vulnerable as well. Just as you remember to protect your skin by slathering on sunscreen, give a thought to protecting your eyes, too. Exposure to bright light and sunlight for long periods of time damages your eyes’ natural lens. This can increase your chances of developing cataracts later in life. Sunlight can also damage the macula – the oval, yellow spot near the centre of the retina. Excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to macular degeneration and eventually loss of central vision.

The Right Choice

When you play certain sports, it is prudent to wear safety glasses. Nowadays, you can find specific safety sunglasses for all kinds of sports – from squash goggles to wraparound glasses for cricket; from ski goggles to spectacles specially designed for swimming. Get custom-made sunglasses that can protect your eyes while you play sports. Even when you’re not playing sports, but just enjoying the bright sunny days outdoors, it’s important that you protect your eyes from the sun's UV rays. Your sunglasses are your best protective, yet fashionable, accessory for your eyes.

  • Make sure that your sunglasses block at least 99% of UVB rays, and at least 95% of UVA rays.

  • Avoid sunglasses labelled as ‘cosmetic’ and which have no UV protection information.

  • Make sure you try on the sunglasses to check that they fit properly and don’t pinch around your head. Your eyelashes shouldn't touch the frame or the lenses.

  • Choose scratch-resistant, impact-resistant lenses, such as those made from NXT polyurethane.

  • Consider the shape of your face while buying sunglasses. Not all styles suit all faces, and the wrong style can make your face look too large or too small.

Get Framed

Get sun ready with a helping hand from Leightons Opticians and Hearing Care. Visit one of our stores and browse through our extensive collection of designer sunglasses. Try on various styles to find a pair that suits the shape of your face and your lifestyle.

We have all-time favourite brands such as Ray-Ban and Oakley, as well as luxury brands such as Chanel and Prada. We also have safety glasses to suit different types of sports, so make sure you inform our staff about your favourite sport or activity. While you’re at the store, take an eye test to make sure that your eyes are in perfect condition. Find out if your prescription has changed or if any other eye problems need to be addressed. So be outdoorsy this summer; step out in style with the right pair of designer sunglasses!