Cyclists rely on sharp, clear vision for safety and performance, but glasses and contacts can often get in the way, especially during long rides or in unpredictable weather. At Brinton Vision, we understand the unique challenges cyclists face when it comes to vision correction, from fogging lenses to dry eyes caused by contacts. LASIK offers a solution that can enhance your experience on the road by providing freedom from prescription eyewear. To learn how LASIK could improve your life and benefit your cycling, schedule a consultation with Brinton Vision today.
How can LASIK improve vision for cyclists?
LASIK can significantly improve vision for cyclists by eliminating the need for glasses or contacts, providing clear vision at all distances. Cyclists often need to see both near and far—reading their cycling computer and monitoring the road ahead. Glasses can be cumbersome, especially when switching between prescription sunglasses in bright areas and removing them in shady spots which instantly compromises your vision. Removing your glasses to wipe away sweat can also leave you vulnerable, as your vision is impaired during that critical moment. LASIK at Brinton Vision eliminates these inconveniences, offering cyclists the freedom to see clearly without worrying about glasses fogging, slipping, or needing constant adjustment.
What are the long-term vision benefits for cyclists who undergo LASIK?
The long-term benefits of LASIK surgery for cyclists include sharper, more reliable vision without the need for glasses or contacts. This can lead to better performance, enhanced safety, and a more comfortable ride over time. Brinton Vision offers LASIK as a long-term solution that lets cyclists enjoy clear, unaided vision for years to come.
Are you ready to take the next step in your visual freedom?
The High Cost of Prescription Glasses for Cyclists
A major benefit for cyclists is the money saved on prescription cycling sunglasses after LASIK. Depending on the lenses you need, high-quality cycling prescription sunglasses cost between $275-$800+ for popular brands like Oakley, ROKA, Smith, and POC. The exact same models of non-prescription sunglasses typically cost $200-300, representing a 48% savings over their prescription counterparts.
Each time your prescription changes, you have to buy a new pair of cycling sunglasses or expensive replacement lenses. With LASIK, you can buy a single pair of high-quality non-prescription cycling sunglasses without having to change when your vision slightly changes.
Cycling lenses also get a significant amount of wear and tear – from accidental drops, to sweat and grit that scratch lenses. Replacing prescription lenses is twice the cost of non-prescription replacement lenses.
LASIK allows cyclists to opt for cycling sunglasses without needing prescription lenses, saving on costs and providing more flexibility for outdoor activities. For cyclists, LASIK offers riders a long-term, permanent vision correction solution, giving you the clarity and convenience to focus entirely on the road ahead. Brinton Vision’s LASIK procedures are designed to help you achieve this freedom and enhance your overall cycling experience.
Can’t I just wear my regular glasses when I cycle?
While you could, there are three reasons this is not always a good idea. First, your regular glasses don’t typically shield the eyes from wind at the speeds you’ll travel on a bike. Cycling sunglasses are designed with this mind. Second, unless you have photo chromatic lenses on your daily glasses, you won’t be getting UV protection, putting your eyes at risk of damage. Third, your regular prescription glasses will probably slip down your nose when you sweating and leaning forward on the handlebars. Cycling specific frames are designed to stay in place in these situations. Even if you have daily prescription sunglasses, they are not cycling-specific, and you will have challenges with wind shielding and slippage.
Can’t I just wear my contacts when I cycle?
Wearing contact lenses when cycling isn’t optimal for three reasons:
1. Discomfort and Poor Performance with Contacts
Cycling often involves exposure to wind, sweat, dust, and debris, which can cause contact lenses to dry out quickly
Dry contacts can lead to:
- Blurred vision
- Discomfort, itchy and burning eyes
- Excessive blinking
- A feeling that the lenses might come out
These issues can be particularly problematic during long rides or in windy conditions, potentially affecting the cyclist’s performance and safety.
2. Increased Risk of Infection When Cycling with Contacts
When cycling outside, dust or debris can get trapped between your contact lens and your eye. This can increase the risk of eye infections or irritation. Additionally, if a cyclist touches their eyes with dirty hands to adjust lenses or wipe away sweat, it raises the infection risk.
3. Vision Fluctuation With Contacts
Some cyclists report slight changes in depth perception or occasional “floating” of the lens, which can be disconcerting during high-speed or technical riding
Additional Challenges for Triathletes
For cyclists who also participate in triathlons, the challenges multiply. Water, contacts, and goggles don’t make for a good partnership. Goggles often get dislodged in the chaos mass start events, with athletes getting dirty water in their eyes. According to the the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines, you should always remove contacts before swimming and should never expose them to any type of water – pool, lake, or ocean.
Other triathletes opt for prescription goggles, but these come at a high price, costing from $200-$600. It’s difficult to see clearly with prescription goggles when out of the water running to transition 1. LASIK at Brinton Vision eliminates the need for prescription goggles, allowing triathletes to see clearly during all phases of the race, from swimming to cycling, without the hassle or worry of prescription eyewear.
A Cyclist’s Story on Using Prescription Glasses in a Race
“The first time I ever rode in prescription sunglasses was scary. It was a 100 mile time trial where I was down in the aerobars. My daily glasses were progressive lenses, but to save money, I got my non-progressive prescription lenses for my Oakley Full Jackets cycling glasses. I didn’t realize how big a difference progressive versus non-progressive would make. They say, ‘Never race how you haven’t trained.’ I thought it wouldn’t be a big deal. Boy, was I wrong! My eyes were so used to progressive lenses, that when I started the race in the aerobars, the road looked like it was about 6″ from my face even though it was 2′-3′ below me. At first, this was humorous but soon became super disorienting, especially on high-speed descents. On the next loop of the course, I quickly switched to my regular, everyday clear glasses. While my depth perception was better, all the other drawbacks of wind, slippage, sweat, and the lack of UV protection mentioned above came with the change. The whole day was a nightmare. I finished the race with red painful eyes. Having had a laser vision correction procedure would have made all the difference that day.” – Jordan F. Ultra-Cyclist
Clear Vision, Better Cycling
LASIK eye surgery can revolutionize your cycling experience by providing clearer, more reliable vision without the hassle of glasses or contacts. Whether you’re navigating a long ride, dealing with unpredictable weather, or transitioning through a triathlon, LASIK can give you the freedom to focus on your performance and safety. Brinton Vision is here to help cyclists like you experience the benefits of life without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses.
Ready to take your cycling to the next level? Schedule a consultation with Brinton Vision and see how LASIK can improve your ride.
Are you ready to take the next step in your visual freedom?
FAQ’s for Benefits of LASIK for Cyclists
Does LASIK offer better peripheral vision for cyclists compared to glasses?
Yes, LASIK can significantly improve peripheral vision for cyclists, as it eliminates the need for glasses, which often restrict side vision with their frames. Clear, unobstructed peripheral vision is crucial for situational awareness on the road, and LASIK at Brinton Vision provides that freedom, allowing cyclists to better see their surroundings and stay safe.
How long after LASIK can I return to cycling?
Most patients can return to light cycling after about one week following LASIK, though this varies based on individual healing. At Brinton Vision, we recommend that cyclists wait until their eyes are fully healed, usually within a month, before resuming more intense rides to ensure optimal results and safety.
Can LASIK enhance performance and safety for competitive cyclists?
Yes, LASIK can enhance both performance and safety for competitive cyclists by providing clearer vision without the hassle of glasses or contacts. This can improve reaction times, comfort, and overall awareness on the road or during races. Brinton Vision offers LASIK to help cyclists achieve peak performance with sharper, more reliable vision.
How do weather conditions like rain or wind impact vision after LASIK when cycling?
After LASIK, cyclists no longer have to worry about their glasses fogging up or water spots impairing vision. While wind can cause temporary dryness, the freedom from eyewear helps cyclists maintain clearer vision in challenging weather conditions. Brinton Vision’s LASIK procedures allow you to enjoy better visual clarity, even in rain or wind.
Are there any risks or complications from LASIK that could affect my cycling?
While LASIK is a very safe procedure, there are minor risks like temporary dry eyes or light sensitivity, which could affect cycling in the early recovery period. At Brinton Vision, we ensure you are fully informed and guide you through a thorough recovery process to minimize any risks and get you back on your bike as soon as possible.
How does LASIK compare to other vision correction options for cyclists, like PRK or SMILE?
LASIK offers quicker recovery and less post-operative discomfort compared to PRK, making it a popular choice for cyclists. SMILE, another option, has a slightly longer recovery than LASIK but may reduce dry eye symptoms. At Brinton Vision, we help you determine the best procedure for your needs based on your cycling lifestyle.