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Safety Eyewear Options for Lacrosse Players

Meeting ASTM Standards for Lacrosse Eye Protection

When selecting safety eyewear for lacrosse, it is crucial to choose glasses that meet the ASTM F803 standard. This standard was created by ASTM International specifically for protective eyewear used in racquet sports like lacrosse, ensuring the glasses provide adequate coverage and impact resistance for the high-speed balls used. Glasses that meet the ASTM F803 standard must pass stringent tests, proving they can withstand impacts from lacrosse balls traveling up to 120 mph without penetration of the lens or frame.

To pass these tests, manufacturers must use high-quality polycarbonate, Trivex or propionate lenses that do not crack or shatter on impact. The frames must fully enclose the eye area to prevent entry of a ball at sharp angles. Wrap-around temple designs help achieve this coverage. Temples must withstand at least 150 pounds of force without fracturing. Nose bridges should have similar impact resistance. No gaps can exist between the lens and frame or temples that would allow a ball to pass through.

When worn properly, ASTM F803 certified eyewear should provide protection against 90% of lacrosse eye injuries. Players often sustain corneal abrasions, hyphemas, retinal detachments, and other damage from direct ball contact or secondary injuries as glasses are driven into the face. Full coverage wrapping around temples prevents aproximately 65% of these injuries. Using polycarbonate or propionate lenses instead of plastic safety glasses reduces severity of abrasions and lacerations by 95%.

To ensure proper protection, athletes should verify eyewear is ASTM F803 rated. The label or tag should clearly state “Meets ASTM F803 standards”. Trying on different sizes and styles is wise since fit affects performance. Glasses resting too close to eyes can exacerbate injuries upon impact. Nose pads should not obstruct airflow or cause discomfort. Temples must curve securely behind ears. Players should conduct on-field testing as well, evaluating visibility and movement during intense play. Working closely with coaches when selecting protective eyewear optimizes safety and performance.

Choosing Flexible Frames That Move With You

When playing lacrosse, athletes need protective eyewear frames that flex and adjust easily during competition. Elite players make frequent pivots, direction changes, checks, cradles, and maneuvers requiring unrestricted head and body motion. Rigid frames with no flex can obstruct visibility as they shift on the face with sudden movements. Flexible frames that conform to facial contours and respond dynamically to motion offer superior vision and injury protection.

Polycarbonate is the optimal frame material for flexibility in lacrosse glasses. Polycarbonate has high impact resistance, maintaining integrity upon ball impact. Yet it has a moderate degree of elasticity and pliability, bending and bouncing back rather than cracking. Polycarbonate frames easily conform to fit the player’s face without compromising durability. The material readily handles high temperatures and sun exposure during outdoor play. Its light weight reduces slipping or discomfort from long-term wear.

Thermoplastic elastomers like silicone and TPE are also utilized in flexible lacrosse frames. These rubber-like materials provide needed tactile grip and bounce. They allow frames to literally flex and twist while retaining shape. Their soft texture enhances player comfort and fit for long games. To optimize movement, many glasses integrate polycarbonate with thermoplastic elastomers at the temples, nose bridges and ear pieces. This combines the high impact resistance of polycarbonate with the pliability of silicone or TPE.

Flexible frames must still meet ASTM F803 standards for lacrosse despite their bendability. They undergo the same 120 mph impact testing to prove adequate eye protection. Advanced manufacturing techniques like hydrolysis resistance coatings allow polycarbonate to maintain integrity through repeated flexing. Molding techniques utilizing movable joints or hinges at key stress points sustain performance. While offering dynamic play, flexibility remains secondary to certified impact resistance.

When shopping for lacrosse eyewear, players should closely evaluate frame movement and adjustment during wear. Bending frames fully in all directions tests flexibility. Trying on glasses while running and doing head maneuvers checks fit. Flexible frames should feel almost custom molded to the player’s face, moving seamlessly during cuts and cradles. Durability should equal that of rigid frames to ensure safety. With the right eyewear, athletes gain unimpaired vision with fully certified protection against injury.

Choosing Lenses for Different Light Conditions

When selecting protective eyewear for lacrosse, athletes must consider lens tint and coating options to enhance vision in diverse lighting scenarios. Players face glare from sunlight in day games and difficulty tracking balls in low light at dusk or night. Tailoring lenses to the predominant setting optimizes performance and safety.

The main lens choice involves visible light transmission percentage (VLT%). Clear or light yellow lenses in the 90% VLT range work best in low light when players need to maximize visibility. These let in ample light to follow the ball and see surroundings clearly at night. Light rust tints around 75% VLT are more versatile for moderate light conditions. Gray, amber and vermillion tints in the 12%-60% VLT range filter glare in bright sun while providing color differentiation.

Anti-reflective (AR) lens coatings significantly improve lacrosse eyewear performance. AR coatings reduce glare and eye fatigue by preventing light scattering on the lens surface. This increases contrast and depth perception, aiding ball tracking. Hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings repel moisture, dirt and oils that could smear and obscure vision. Mirrored lenses with partially reflective coatings mask eyes from opponents while reducing glare.

Specialized polarized lenses offer further glare reduction by filtering specific light waves that cause glare. This sharpens contrast on the field. However, some lacrosse visors and cages don’t accommodate the thickness of polarized lenses. Players notice parallax shifts looking through certain fences or nets. Multi-layer gradient tinting lenses provide partial polarization benefits with less parallax by gradually transitioning from darker to lighter tinting moving upward in the lens.

Photochromic or transition lenses provide automated tint adjustment in response to lighting conditions. The lenses darken when exposed to UV light, then fade back when UV exposure drops. This enables use in both day and night games. However, photochromic lenses can be slower to adapt than swapping conventional lenses. Their scratched or dirty outer layer also impairs light sensing performance.

Ultimately lacrosse players should consider their position, game times and field orientation when selecting lenses. Close collaboration with coaches helps determine optimal choices. Having spare interchangeable lenses on hand gives the flexibility to tailor eyewear to unique lighting needs. With the right lens technologies, athletes gain a performance and safety advantage.

Finding Glasses That Fit Comfortably Under Helmet

For optimal safety and performance, lacrosse players require protective eyewear that fits comfortably beneath their helmets without obstructing vision or movement. Players already contend with limited peripheral view from helmets. Ill-fitting glasses that constantly shift and slip when headchecking or sprinting impairs play.

Glasses optimized to wear under lacrosse helmets have compact frames with curved temple pieces that hug the face. Narrow profiles slide easily within helmet openings without excess slack that leads to slipping. Flexible rubberized tips on the temple ends increase grip. Adjustable or elastic straps secure eyewear firmly to prevent major shifting during checks and hits.

Pad size, position and material affects long-term comfort under helmets. Thin foam pads minimize pressure points on the nose and head. Open cell foam pads don’t absorb sweat that could cause eyewear to slide. Proper nose pad widthspacing keeps the glasses centered without obstructing breathing or fogging vision. Adjustable nose pads allow custom fit for different players.

The helmet and eyewear combination should maximize peripheral vision for optimal field awareness. Smaller lens profiles reaching just below the eyes open sight lines to the lower field. Venting between the lens and frame improves airflow and reduces fogging. Angled temple pieces increase side visibility compared to straight vertical temples.

Polycarbonate and propionate lenses optimize impact protection without excess weight or thickness. Injection molded thermoplastic frames readily conform to facial contours for better fit within helmets. This enables long-term wear without discomfort or blurry vision as glasses move. Flexible hinges at key points sustain fit through frequent head motion.

Athletes must take time to test different eyewear options with their lacrosse helmets and other gear. Precise positioning of the glasses can make a major difference in visibility and comfort on the field. Getting input from coaches helps optimize components. With practice, players can find lacrosse eyewear providing secure protection without impeding performance.

Choosing Frames Made With Durable Materials

When selecting protective eyewear for lacrosse, the frame material greatly affects durability and longevity. Lacrosse exposes glasses to repeated high-speed ball impacts, checks from sticks, helmet and body collisions, and potential lens-warping temperature swings. Premium materials resist breakage, flexing to absorb shock rather than cracking.

Polycarbonate is the gold standard frame material for lacrosse glasses due to its extremely high strength and impact resistance. Polycarbonate has 250 times the impact resistance of plastic lenses and 10 times that of CR-39 lenses. This enables polycarbonate frames to withstand direct lacrosse ball hits up to 120 mph per ASTM F803 without cracking. The material readily flexes then bounces back instead of shattered. It maintains integrity through thousands of impacts.

Nylon and Grilamid frames offer an affordable alternative with 4-6 times the impact resistance of plastic. They lack the complete shatterproofing of polycarbonate but better maintain shape when bent. Stainless steel wire core reinforcements further improve nylon frame durability and bending resistance. However, metal-reinforced frames must undergo extensive ASTM F803 testing to prove safety.

Thermoplastic elastomers like silicone and TPE injected into frame joints boost flexibility and shock absorption. This reduces stress points where breakage occurs. Gripping rubber ear and nose pieces keep frames solidly positioned during checks and hits. These materials provide needed grip without sacrificing durability.

Proprietary manufacturing techniques further bolster frame durability. Hydrolysis coatings protect polycarbonate integrity through repeated exposure to sun, sweat and humidity. Insert molding fuses materials like nylon and TPE for combined strength. Quality controlled machine cutting, drilling and polishing prevents micro-fractures that reduce material strength.

Regular inspection, careful handling and proper storage preserves lacrosse eyewear lifespan. Keeping backup glasses at hand enables rotating and replacing damaged frames promptly. With advanced modern materials and manufacturing, players can rely on their eyewear to withstand seasons of rough lacrosse play.

Picking Lenses With Superior Impact Resistance

When choosing protective eyewear for lacrosse, the lens material plays a critical role in shielding eyes from injury. Lacrosse balls routinely travel at 110+ mph during play. Upon impact, lenses must resist fracturing or penetration that could damage the eye.

Polycarbonate lenses offer the highest impact resistance. Polycarbonate is 250 times more impact resistant than plastic and 10 times stronger than CR-39 plastic lenses. It withstands direct hits from lacrosse balls traveling over 120 mph based on ASTM F803 testing. Polycarbonate flexes to absorb shock then rebounds without cracking or splintering.

Trivex lenses provide impact resistance almost on par with polycarbonate while staying thin and light. Trivex has superior optical clarity over polycarbonate with less distortion. Like polycarbonate, Trivex lenses maintain integrity when bent or twisted. Both materials have high Abbe values indicating light dispersion control.

Propionate lenses rank just behind polycarbonate and Trivex for impact resistance. They withstand lacrosse ball impacts above 100 mph. Propionate has good optical clarity but more thickness and weight than polycarbonate. It also suffers more scratched and abrasions in daily use.

Glass lenses, including tempered glass, lack adequate shatter resistance for most lacrosse play. While stronger than standard plastic, glass can still crack, splinter and penetrate eyes when hit. However, advanced polycarbonate-glass composites like Trivex retain the high impact resistance of polycarbonate with the optical clarity of glass.

All lenses should undergo advanced impact testing per ASTM F803 guidelines before use in lacrosse eyewear. Lab testing verifies the lens material and thickness selected can repeatedly withstand ball collision forces. On-field trials also help assess performance during actual game conditions with sticks, elbows and bodies in motion.

With the right high-impact lens materials, lacrosse players gain certified protection against corneal abrasions, hyphemas, fractures and other damage from direct ball and stick impacts. Their eyes stay safe behind advanced materials flexing and rebounding upon collision.

Getting a Secure Wrap-Around Design

Wrap-around lacrosse eyewear with wide temple arms curving closely around the face provides superior eye protection. Standard glasses leave gaps at the corners and sides where a ball could potentially strike at an angle and penetrate. Fully wrapped frames shield the entire eye socket area from all angles of impact.

Wraparound designs utilize curved temple pieces contoured to hug the side of the head. Flexible temple tips bend to conform closely to facial shape, eliminating gaps near the temples that balls could enter. Lenses wrap back 180 degrees or more, protecting side peripheral vision.

The contiguous frame and temples must completely enclose the eye area to meet ASTM F803 impact standards for lacrosse. Tests verify that balls traveling over 120 mph do not penetrate the glasses from any trajectory. Gaps or weak points could allow force transmission and contact with eyes. Solid wraparound coverage is vital.

Polycarbonate lens material enables easy molding into wrap-around curves without fracturing. It flexes and rebounds to absorb shock from both direct perpendicular hits and angular impacts. Some glasses combine polycarbonate lenses with more flexible thermoplastic elastomer frames to sustain a tight seal around the eyes.

Nose bridges and adjustable nose pads should press securely against the nose and brow to seal gaps where the frame meets the face. Thick cushioned padding enhances comfort and stability during play. The goal is solid 360 degree protection eliminating any open sight lines to the eyes.

Field testing different wraparound models during intense scrimmages and drills identifies the best fit. Moving the head rapidly from side to side checks for secure temple contact without discomfort. Collisions with players and balls verify no penetration or forced frame contact with eyes. Players gain confidence knowing impacts from any angle are safely deflected away.

Finding Glasses That Reduce Glare and Enhance Contrast

Managing glare is critical for lacrosse players to track the ball and see opponents on bright sunny fields. Excess glare causes eye strain and distraction leading to poor performance. Advanced lens coatings and tints on protective eyewear reduce glare for enhanced vision.

Anti-reflective (AR) coatings on lenses use interference to prevent light scattering and reflection. This maximizes light transmission while erasing glare and reflections that could obstruct the field of view. Quality AR coatings sustain performance after repeated wetting, wiping and wear.

Anti-fog coatings prevent condensation build up that blurs vision. Hydrophilic coatings allow moisture to spread evenly into a transparent film rather than foggy droplets. Superhydrophobic and oleophobic coatings totally repel water, sweat and oils for clearer sight lines.

Polarized lenses filter specific light waves to erase reflective glare. This sharpens contrast on bright fields for easier ball tracking. While some helmets and cages may not accommodate thicker polarized lenses, partial polarization through tints and gradients still reduces glare.

Mirrored lens tints reflect light to conceal the player’s eyes and obscure their vision direction. A mirror coating on the lens exterior bounces glare away while allowing light transmission through the lens interior. This provides crucial glare protection while masking strategic looking.

Gradient tinting uses graduated shading from dark to light vertically in the lens. This provides glare protection while avoiding extreme darkening that could reduce critical visual information. Light still transmits through the upper portion while lower glare is reduced.

Ensuring eyewear includes premium AR and protective coatings makes a major difference in combating sun glare. Swapping lenses optimized for different lighting conditions keeps vision sharp as the sun shifts. With the right technologies, athletes gain a vital performance edge being able to clearly see the ball and opponents.

Selecting Options With Anti-Fog Coatings

Keeping lacrosse eyewear free of fogging is crucial for maintaining clear vision during play. Shifting temperatures, helmet use and player exertion leads to continual fogging issues on the lenses. Advanced anti-fogging coatings prevent moisture condensation build up that blurs sight lines.

Hydrophilic anti-fog coatings allow water molecules to spread evenly into a transparent sheet rather than clustering into vision-blocking droplets. This converts condensation into a clear film for unobstructed view. Hydrophilic treatments lasting 30 minutes up to a few hours help suppress short-term fogging.

Longer lasting hydrophobic and oleophobic lens treatments repel moisture, oils and sweat that trigger fogging. These atomically smooth coatings cause condensation to bead up and roll off lenses instead of sticking. Players can wipe away minor moisture between plays before major fogging occurs.

Dual-action coatings provide both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties for comprehensive fog defense. The hydrophilic component pulls moisture into an even sheet. The hydrophobic aspect resists wetting and wicking for longer effect. This hybrid approach combats fogging from all fronts.

Permanent thermal cure hydrophobic hard coats bond firmly to lenses at the molecular level. Curing with heat and pressure creates a fog resistant surface sustaining hundreds of washes. This prevents coatings rubbing and wearing off over time compared to temporary sprays.

AR anti-reflective treatments also assist with resisting fogging by smoothing the lens surface. This limits microscopic pores and texture where moisture can cling and spread. A quality AR coating works synergistically with anti-fogging lenses.

Venting in frames to allow air circulation also helps. Changing lenses during play as they become compromised provides fresh anti-fogging protection. Keeping lenses clean and clear of oils, films and scratches improves longevity of anti-fog coatings. Fog-free vision is a key performance advantage in lacrosse.

Protecting Your Eyes From UV Rays

Lacrosse involves heavy sun exposure that can damage eyes over time. UV radiation from sunlight contributes to short and long term eye issues like corneal sunburn, cataracts and macular degeneration. Protective eyewear with UV blocking filters helps safeguard players’ vision.

Polycarbonate inherently blocks 99% of UVB rays and 95% of UVA rays thanks to its molecular composition. This prevents most UV from reaching the eye surface to cause damage. Trivex and propionate lenses offer similar built-in UV protection. Plastic and glass lenses lack innate UV resistance.

Coatings like HEV Blue further boost the UV protection of polycarbonate lenses. Titanium and zinc oxide treatments help filter high energy visible blue-violet light along with UVA/UVB rays. Mirrored lens coatings also reflect a significant portion of UV radiation.

Darker tinted lenses made for bright sun inherently block more UV light waves before they enter the lens. Grey, amber and vermillion lenses formulated to filter sunlight provide extra UV protection alongside the base lens material. However, very dark lenses may reduce visibility.

Ideally, lacrosse eyewear should block 95%-100% of UVA and 99%-100% of UVB radiation. Players spend hours practicing and competing in direct sunlight. Exposure to UV radiation cumulatively damages the cornea and retina. Proper UV filters reduce short and long term risk.

Lens labels should clearly indicate UV protection levels like “UV400” meaning 100% UVA/UVB blocking. Reputable brands test lenses to verify UV filtration claims. Players can also have lenses custom tinted with UV inhibitors for enhanced protection.

Regular lens replacement is key since coatings break down over time with sun exposure. By selecting UV filtering eyewear, athletes ensure their eyes stay healthy and injury-free for seasons to come.

Lacrosse Shooting Glasses for Attacker Position

Attackers in lacrosse need protective eyewear optimized for precision shooting and ball handling. As scorers positioning near the net, excellent vision and ball tracking are imperative. Maintaining constant view of the goal, ball and defenders during cradle dodges is critical.

Close-fitting wraparound glasses provide attackers a wide protected field of view. A low profile frame with thin arms and small nose piece keeps the visual field open. Polycarbonate lenses offer distortion-free light transmission for accuracy. AR coatings sharpen contrast.

Light amber tints around 30% VLT maintain clarity while reducing glare from behind the net. Mirrored coatings on the lower half of the lens conceal gaze direction from defenders without major dimming overhead. Gradient fading boosts downward sun glare control.

Venting prevents fogging when dashing between sun and shade near the crease. Quick-change lenses allow swapping tints as lighting shifts. Premium anti-fog and anti-scratch treatments sustain crisp sight lines after repeated shots, wipes and marks.

Soft rubberized temple tips provide non-slip grip during hard cuts and fakes around defenders. Flexible hinges allow the frame to contour to the attacker’s face shape for secure fit. Custom molding ensures the glasses stay solidly in place when jostled and checked.

Durability stands up to high-speed shots, skirmish stick impacts and body checks. Polycarbonate lenses flex and rebound upon ball impact rather than shattering. Spring hinges and sturdy yet flexible frames prevent major warping.

Proper positioning balances protection and vision. Temples should terminate just before the ear to maximize peripheral view. Arms curving closely around the brow line seal gaps while allowing good downward sight. Extended lower edge protection is key.

Testing different eyewear styles during intense drills and scrimmages refines the optimal gear. Sharpshooters require equipment enhancing quick Reaction time, accuracy and vision endurance. With the right eye protection attackers maintain their competitive edge.

Goalie Glasses That Don’t Obscure Vision

As the last line of defense, lacrosse goalies require protective eyewear giving clear sight lines to all corners of the net. Unobstructed side and downward vision is imperative to track shots from multiple angles.

Compact wraparound glasses work best to prevent obscured peripheral view with a goalie helmet and chin guard. Low profile polycarbonate lenses offer minimal obstruction while flexing upon impact. AR coatings prevent reflection blurring sight.

Amber, vermillion or gradient tinted lenses reduce glare and sharpen contrast when viewing shots against sunny skies. Light rust tones around 50% VLT maintain visibility of sticks, balls and players while lowering eye strain.

Anti-fog treatments on the lens interior prevent vision clouding when moving in and out of shade near the net. Temple venting facilitates airflow. Photochromic lenses automatically adjust to light conditions changing with sun position.

Cushioned adjustable rubber nose pieces allow custom centering and prevent glasses from shifting during rapid head turns.Flexible yet durable co-molded frames resist warping from checks and ball impacts.

Testing different eyewear with full goalie gear ensures proper fit and positioning for full coverage without impediment. Frame shape should maximize peripheral range with helmet and chin guard shape. Arms extending too far into peripheral view must be avoided.

Injection molded frames that contour the face provide a secure seal to prevent gaps where balls could intrude at sharp angles. Padding along the brow prevents downward slippage obstructing view. Easily swapping lenses keeps optics fog and scratch free.

Goalies rely on sharp vision to react to tricky bounce and angle shots from anywhere on the field. Protective eyewear secured close to the eyes with anti-glare, custom tinting and anti-fogging technologies provides vital visual enhancement for defending the net.

Midfielder Eyewear for All-Around Coverage

Midfielders in lacrosse require protective eyewear providing all-around coverage and visibility. Ranging all over the field on both offense and defense, sharp vision in multiple directions is imperative.

Durable wraparound glasses with flexible co-molded frames maximize visibility and adjustability. Polycarbonate lenses with anti-glare/anti-fog coatings enhance view of the ball in motion. Lightweight construction prevents slippage.

Tough yet flexible thermoplastic frame materials like TPE resist breakage when checked while retaining secure fit. Spring hinges and rubber nose/temple tips provide customized contouring and rebound after impacts.

Mirrored lens coatings reduce glare while concealing eyes from opponents. Photochromic lenses transition quickly when moving from bright midfield to shaded attack zones. Fog-resistant hydrophobic treatments combat condensation.

Midfielders battling constantly for contested balls need high impact resistance without lens fracturing or warping. Polycarbonate lenses flex and rebound even when hit simultaneously by multiple sticks.

Venting between lens and frame boosts anti-fogging airflow. Removable strap anchors keep glasses positioned when heading and jostling. Close fit eliminates movement obstruction within helmet confines.

All-around vision is imperative when pivoting from offense to defense rapidly. Wraparound frame shape with flexible adjustable parts sustains fitted protection in motion. Arms curving back 180 degrees seal gaps along temples.

Testing different glasses during intense scrimmaging checks slip resistance and visibility. Sharp contrast, switching light conditions from midfield to attack zone, and reliable fog resistance covering all field positions makes the ideal combination.

Defender Safety Glasses for Close Checking

As primary checkers against attacking opponents, lacrosse defenders require protective eyewear engineered to withstand routine high speed collisions. Tight fit, impact cushioning and scratch resistance are essential.

Polycarbonate lenses flex and rebound upon impact to resist fracturing. Injection molded co-polymer frames add durability with some elasticity to absorb shock. Together, this redundancy protects eyes upon collision.

Wrap angles exceeding 180 degrees prevent gaps allowing ball or stick incursion from sharp side blows. Arms curving back maximizes coverage and stability when jostled. Anchoring straps boost security.

Anti-fog coatings maintain clear sight lines through repeated checks and exertion. Photochromic tinting adapts to shifting sun conditions. Mirrored exterior conceals gaze direction from attackers.

Interchangeable lenses enable quick replacement when scratched or fogged. Proprietary oleophobic treatments repel smudges, sweat and skin oils during close defense. Rinsable coatings sustain anti-fog performance.

Ideal frame size balances protection and peripheral vision around the helmet. Compact shape with thin arms and flexible nose piece provides needed wrap without obstruction. Venting aids airflow.

Cushioned adjustable nose and temple pads customize fit to the defender’s facial contours. This prevents jarring displacement with hits. Soft pads prevent pressure points and discomfort over time.

Testing glasses in contact drills verifies stable positioning even when heads and bodies collide. Ability to instantly swap lenses and clear fog keeps vision sharp through repeated hard checks. Tough eyewear gives defenders confidence in any scrum.

Defender Safety Glasses for Close Checking

Anti-fog coatings maintain clear sight lines through repeated checks and exertion. Photochromic tinting adapts to shifting sun conditions. Mirrored exterior conceals gaze direction from attackers.

Ideal frame size balances protection and peripheral vision around the helmet. Compact shape with thin arms and flexible nose piece provides needed wrap without obstruction. Venting aids airflow.

Cushioned adjustable nose and temple pads customize fit to the defender’s facial contours. This prevents jarring displacement with hits. Soft pads prevent pressure points and discomfort over time.