The effect of protective sports eyewear on peripheral visual field and a peripheral visual performance task.

Seven different types of protective sports eyewear were tested to determine whether peripheral awareness as measured with a visual performance task were affected. Goldmann perimetry and the Wayne Saccadic Fixator with Stik-Up attachments were utilized in a repeated measures research design. The sports glasses did restrict visual field, but no one pair of glasses were least restrictive. The restrictions did not translate into significant differences on the performance task. Peripheral visual factors should be taken into account when prescribing protective sports eyewear. The importance of proper eye protection in sports is also discussed.