TRAVEL KIT SPORT EYEWEAR 

By Pamela A. Campbell

So the days are longer and we're enjoying the outdoors a whole lot more. Great, I say, but do you notice how tricky it gets when you're out sightseeing and you can hardly stand the glare of the hot sun, or trying in vain to keep your eyes focused on that golf ball in sunny Jamaica or Florida or Hawaii? Even the wind can play havoc with your eyes, especially if there's debris around.

Exposure to light affect our eyes in different ways, causing damage that can have long term effects. As a frequent traveler around the world I never part company with my sunglasses. I realize they would have fit my lifestyle by being practical for year-round activities, and fortunately I've found a line that fits all my demands - voila, Adidas Sport Eyewear.

My quest for new sunglasses came as I prepared for a trip to the Sahara. The tour operator's guidelines listed a number of prerequisites (if you wanted to really enjoy the trek) and the most important item was wraparound sunglasses for the sun and sand.

Why wear sunglasses?

I won't disagree that guys want to look like 007 James Bond and gals hunger for the alluring air of a mysterious femme fatale. But it makes sense to be aware of certain conditions that influence the effect of the sun on your eyes. It's the retina that signals the brain when we see light. Do you know that red and blue are 'easy ' colors to discern, but our eyes are most sensitive to green and yellow?

Ultra violet light causes eye damage from prolonged exposure. UVC is the most dangerous, followed by UVB which reflects the intense heat (cornea regenerates), and UVA which goes from the outer eye to the lens causing permanent damage (cataracts).

Visible light allows the eyes to gradually assimilate light conditions and sunglasses acts as a barrier to lessen eye strain and fatigue.

Infra-red light comes from heat radiation (light bulbs) and sunglasses filter the near-infra-red light.

How important are lens ?

Certain types of material dictate the lens features, whether they come with tints or filters, the shapes (curvature) and optics (visibility), as well as coatings.

Latest design

For the sports enthusiasts or outdoorsy types, unique designs feature breakaway hinges (no screws) with added durability and tension. Easy to snap on and off (in case of accidents), it's a great safety feature too.

Check these features out!

It's all in the 'grip' - a comfortable fit (especially over the ear) is essential, while making sure it's secure enough to permit unlimited movement even after activity causes moisture buildup. The exclusive "adi-flo" vent system reduces moisture build-up and condensation on the lens. And how about a frame that permits flex-zones around the temple and one that adjusts to the individual! The prized feature I treasure is the adjustable 2-position silicon saddle bridge (non-slip during sports activities), all it takes is a quick flick and you're set to go - get the sporting look , even if you must wear prescription sunglasses.

How about these lens!

Mineral glass offer the hardest surface finish (suitable for coatings) and is almost scratch resistant. Rose tinted lens enhances contrast and reduces glare, while brown and amber permits "blue light" reduction.

Let's frame those faces!

Personal preferences will dictate your choice but there are three types available:

~ metal alloy -nickel and copper

~ injection molded plastic - polyamide, nylon, etc.

~ acetate (handmade)

For more information about Adidas Sport Eyewear visit: www.adidas-ep.com