The IRB have approved the trial whereby approved Rugby Goggles can be worn in all levels of Rugby by players affected by eye conditions, but can you see these catching on?
As anyone who has had to wear contact lenses on the sporting field will know, they have an unfortunate tendency to pop out on occasion and the goggles have been developed to enable people who require corrective lenses to wear goggles that are safe to themselves, their team-mates and opponents. They will also allow people with monocular vision or chronic eye conditions who wish to wear Rugby Goggles while playing contact Rugby.
The approved Rugby Goggles, manufactured by Raleri (and only available through their website) are not necessarily designed to provide extra protection for players with chronic eye conditions, but if such players consider them to be beneficial they can be worn for that purpose.
The Rugby Goggles in question (see above) include high-speed impact resistance, anti-abrasion surfaces, anti-fogging, UV protection and a specially designed strap with no clips, buckles or sharp edges but only those Rugby Goggles bearing the IRB trial-approved logo can be worn with referees empowered to make the necessary checks.
The global law trial means that anyone can wear the Rugby Goggles once confirmation has been received from an ophthalmologist (or similar medical professional) although Unions are required to participate in the trial before a player under its jurisdiction can participate in the trial. The goggles can only be purchased after registration on the IRB Passport system, which ensures that everyone who uses them will be in the system for providing feedback on the trial.
The IRB say that it is only through feedback that the IRB can gather enough information to ascertain the longer-term suitability of Rugby Goggles for use in Rugby beyond the lifetime of the trial and you can find full details on the trial here.
It sounds like a good idea and a positive development for rugby players affected by poor eyesight or chronic eye conditions, but can you see them catching on in rugby and possibly other sports?
Feel free to let us know in the comments box below.
