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In the US and Europe, the most significant amount of sports eye injuries come from racquet sports Racquet sports involve balls and racquets (doubles sports) traveling at high speeds. Injuries can easily be prevented through the use of sport goggles. These goggles not only provide protection from injury, but can also be fit with your prescription in them. Even if you need a slight vision correction, it will help you see the ball one second sooner, or help your aim by a fraction of an inch. Look for the following when selecting the right type of goggle:

• Polycarbonate Lenses: This is the most important property of all protective goggles. Good polycarb is virtually unbreakable, and will sustain the impact of a ball or racquet. Goggles without lenses should never be used since the ball in these sports are sometimes small enough to fit through the frame and penetrate the eye.

• Durable Frame Design: The frame must also be able to withstand the impact of a ball or racquet. Therefore, a frame made out of polycarbonate is the the best choice. Shields should not be used unless they are attached by a strap.

• Coverage: The frame must cover the entire eye socket, not only the eyeball itself. Impact to any of the "soft" parts of the eye can cause serious damage. Look for a frame that sits closely to the face. Shields can easily become dislodged if not strapped on so be careful if choosing this option.

• Padding: The frame should have padding at the temple points and bridge points to "cushion the blow". Padding will absorb some of the shock to lessen the overall impact, and to assure the frame itself does not cause damage to the facial structures. Shields typically do not have this feature, so beware if choosing this options.

• Sports Band: The frame should be secured by an elasticized band, not temple pieces. You want something that will be secured tight to the head so that it won't fall off. A frame with temples will not hold tight enough, and a quick movement or head tilt could cause the frame to fall off, allowing objects to penetrate the eye

• Prescription Lenses: A goggle gives the widest field of view for the athlete. Shields must be fit with a prescription insert that fits behind the lens, and therefore, limits the periphery.