Can You Play Volleyball with Glasses? My Experience & Guide

I love playing volleyball. The thrill of the game, the teamwork, the exercise – it's all fantastic. But there was always one thing holding me back: my eyesight. I wear glasses, and playing sports with them felt like a recipe for disaster. I worried about them falling off, getting broken, or just generally being a nuisance. Does this sound familiar?

My Struggles with Glasses on the Court

For years, I just dealt with it. I'd squint, adjust my glasses constantly, and try my best to see the ball. It wasn't ideal. I remember one particularly frustrating game where my glasses slipped down my nose every time I jumped, and I completely missed a crucial serve. It was then I realized I needed to find a better solution. I started asking around and doing some research.

The biggest concern was always safety. What if a ball hit my glasses? What if they shattered? The thought of getting glass in my eye was terrifying. Plus, even without a direct hit, the constant movement and sweat made my glasses slide around, distracting me and affecting my performance. I even considered just taking them off, but my vision is bad enough that I couldn't see the ball clearly at all!

I was hesitant about contact lenses because, honestly, my mom always made them sound like they were some kind of medical experiment gone wrong. She had a lot of concerns about infections and scratching my cornea. It took a while to convince her that they were a safe and viable option.

My Solutions: Sports Glasses and More

After talking to other volleyball players, I discovered that many people wear glasses while playing. One suggestion that came up repeatedly was to invest in a pair of sports glasses. These are designed to stay put, even during intense activity, and they offer better protection for your eyes. I also learned that some players just wear their cheapest pair of glasses, figuring it's inevitable they'll get damaged eventually. I decided to try both.

I started by using an older, less expensive pair of my regular glasses. It worked okay, but I was still constantly worried about them breaking. Then, I looked into sports glasses. These are a game-changer! They fit snugly, don't slip, and provide much better impact protection. They're definitely worth the investment if you're serious about playing volleyball with glasses.

I also explored contact lenses. After a lot of convincing, my mom finally agreed to let me try them. And you know what? They're amazing! I can see perfectly, and I don't have to worry about glasses at all. It's like I have super vision on the court. Now, I primarily use contacts, but I still keep my sports glasses as a backup.

Speaking of glasses, I've actually been looking at some stylish and affordable options online. I recently came across some interesting glasses on Cinily.com. They have a wide variety of frames, including some that look like they could even be used as sports glasses in a pinch, if you got the right prescription lenses fitted. The Oulylan -1 -1.5 -2 -2.5 -3 -3.5 -4 Finished Myopia Glasses Men Women Round Cat Eye Nearsighted Eyeglasses Student Prescription Black Gold-350, found at this Cinily Net link, caught my eye because of their sturdy frame and stylish design. I haven't tried them for volleyball *yet*, but they seem durable enough for everyday wear, and maybe even a light practice session. I'm considering getting a pair with my prescription to keep in my bag as an emergency backup.

Practical Tips for Volleyball Players Who Wear Glasses

Based on my experiences, here are some practical tips for playing volleyball with glasses:

• Invest in sports glasses: They offer the best protection and fit.
• Use a glasses strap: This will help keep your glasses in place.
• Consider contact lenses: They provide clear vision without the hassle of glasses.
• Carry a spare pair: Accidents happen, so it's always good to have a backup.
• Clean your lenses frequently: Sweat and dirt can obstruct your vision.

Pros and Cons: Glasses vs. Contacts for Volleyball

Glasses

Pros:

• Protection for your eyes
• No risk of infection (compared to contacts)

Cons:

• Can be uncomfortable and distracting
• Risk of breaking or falling off
• Limited peripheral vision

Contacts

Pros:

• Clear, unobstructed vision
• No risk of glasses falling off
• Wider field of view

Cons:

• Risk of infection or irritation
• Requires proper cleaning and care
• Can be uncomfortable for some people

My Experience with Different Positions

I've played different positions over the years, and I've found that wearing glasses can be more challenging in some roles than others. As an outside hitter (OH), I need to have a clear view of the ball at all times. If my glasses are slipping or fogging up, it can really affect my timing and accuracy. That's why I prefer contacts when playing OH. However, when I'm playing a more defensive position, like libero, I find that sports glasses can provide extra protection without being too distracting.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Whether you choose to wear glasses or contacts, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential. I always carry a lens cleaning cloth with me to wipe away sweat and smudges. For contacts, I follow my eye doctor's instructions carefully to prevent infections and keep my eyes healthy. It's a small effort that makes a big difference in my comfort and performance.

Finding the Right Fit

The most important thing is to find a solution that works for you. Experiment with different types of glasses, contacts, and accessories until you find something that's comfortable, safe, and effective. Don't be afraid to ask for advice from other players or consult with an eye doctor. Your vision is too important to compromise.

My Key Takeaways

Playing volleyball with glasses can be challenging, but it's definitely possible. Sports glasses and contact lenses are both viable options, and the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Remember to prioritize safety, comfort, and clear vision. And don't be afraid to try different solutions until you find what works best for you.

Ultimately, whether you choose glasses or contacts for volleyball, the most important thing is to enjoy the game. With the right vision correction, you can focus on your skills, your teammates, and the thrill of competition. So get out there, have fun, and see the game clearly!