## Do You Need Glasses for Skydiving?
Skydiving is an exhilarating activity that provides a unique perspective on the world, but it’s essential to be prepared for the challenges it presents. If you wear glasses, you may wonder if you can skydive with them on or if you need a different solution. This article will explore the considerations, options, and best practices for skydiving with glasses.
### Considerations for Skydiving with Glasses
Blurry vision: Skydiving involves high speeds and sudden changes in altitude, which can affect your vision and make it difficult to see clearly with glasses.
Risk of breakage: Glasses can break or fly off during a freefall, posing a safety hazard to you and others.
Fogging and glare: Glasses can fog up or experience glare from the sun, hindering your vision and potentially disorienting you.
Contact lenses: Contact lenses are generally not recommended for skydiving due to the risk of them falling out or becoming displaced.
### Options for Skydiving with Glasses
If you must wear glasses for skydiving, there are several options available:
Prescription goggles: These are specialized goggles designed for skydiving that include prescription lenses. They provide clear vision and protection from the elements.
Corrective inserts: Some skydiving helmets have built-in corrective inserts that fit over your glasses, allowing you to see clearly without wearing goggles.
Jumpmaster consultation: Discuss your eyesight with the jumpmaster before the jump. They may provide guidance on the best course of action based on your specific situation and the skydiving conditions.
### Best Practices for Skydiving with Glasses
If you opt to skydive with glasses, follow these best practices:
Secure your glasses: Use a strap or headband to keep your glasses firmly in place.
Clean your glasses: Thoroughly clean your glasses before the jump to prevent fogging or glare.
Be aware of your peripheral vision: Glasses may limit your peripheral vision, so be particularly mindful of your surroundings and check your blind spots frequently.
Communicate with the jumpmaster: Let the jumpmaster know if you experience any difficulties with your vision, and follow their instructions promptly.
### Alternatives to Wearing Glasses
For those who prefer not to skydive with glasses, there are alternative options to consider:
Laser eye surgery: This elective procedure can permanently correct vision impairments, eliminating the need for glasses.
Glaucoma medications: Medications such as eye drops can lower eye pressure in those with glaucoma, potentially reducing the need for glasses.
Non-prescription sunglasses: While not as corrective as prescription lenses, non-prescription sunglasses can provide protection from the sun and wind, improving visibility during the jump.
### Conclusion
Whether or not to wear glasses for skydiving is a personal decision that depends on your eyesight and preferences. If you must wear glasses, prescription goggles or corrective inserts are the safest and most effective options. However, it’s essential to prioritize your safety and discuss your options with the jumpmaster before the jump. Remember to secure your glasses properly, be aware of your surroundings, and communicate any vision difficulties you experience. With the right precautions, you can safely enjoy the thrill of skydiving with clear and unobstructed vision.