How to Choose Equestrian Eyewear

When it comes to horseback riding, you can either wear sunglasses or not based on your preferences. There are benefits and challenges to this decision. However, choosing to wear sunglasses when you are on horseback is a good idea as it will provide a measure of protection to your eyes.

If you enjoy horseback riding and stay a long time outdoors, it is best to use sunglasses to prevent UV rays from damaging the tissues of the eye. This is possible with long term exposure. Even with short term exposure you may experience certain conditions such as dryness of the eyes, watering, irritation and headaches. This can affect your riding and will be unsafe. Long term sun exposure can contribute to cataracts as well. You can choose an equestrian eyewear brand such as Gidgee Eyes which has been tested for its sports prescription lens compatibility. You will also be able to prevent the glare of the sun from hitting your eyes when you are riding. It is very important that you see properly when riding and this can be beneficial for the staff members that are working in the arena as well. You will be able to improve your night-time vision when you use these lenses during the day. And in addition to protecting your visual cells, sunglasses will give you dust protection as well. Dust will be kicked up by the horse and will be continuously obscuring your vision and this can be detrimental if you are following a dusty trail.

There are many irritants on the trail that you can be protected from when wearing sunglasses. And when riding on less commonly trod trails, you will be able to protect your eyes from branches that can be in your way. However, there is the possibility that the sunglasses can slip off the nose when you are sweaty and this is why it is important to select a brand that caters to sports. You should also choose the right sunglasses to make sure that poor quality lenses don’t cause your eyes to strain. Check for sunglasses that offer UVA and UVB protection. Wrap-around sunglasses are recommended so that you get the most protection. You should select a pair that fits well against your face so that it doesn’t slip when you are moving or when you are sweating. The lenses of the sunglasses should be dark so that they are able to absorb a minimum of 75% of sunlight. This percentage will usually be provided by the manufacturer. It will be specified as the light transmission factor.

In certain situations such as riding near a water body or riding during snow will require you to have a lens with a minimum 85% absorption percentage. This can go down to a minimum of 60% when riding in valleys and forests. If your riding is only done during twilight hours, you can select lenses with a minimum of 30%.  Try to purchase polarized lenses that come with UV protection as they can cut glare to a considerable amount. TAC lenses especially can block UVA and UVB rays completely due to the seven layers of protection provided.