With over 300 days of sunshine annually, Folsom offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. From the shimmering waters of Folsom Lake to the extensive trail networks weaving through our community, families have countless options for creating memorable experiences together. However, amid the excitement of outdoor activities, eye protection often becomes an afterthought – a concerning oversight when you consider that approximately 40% of all eye injuries occur during recreational activities, with children being particularly vulnerable.

As we embrace the natural beauty of our region, let’s ensure our family’s vision remains as clear and healthy as the views we enjoy. This guide will help you navigate the essential aspects of eye protection during Folsom’s favorite outdoor pastimes, providing practical advice for keeping eyes of all ages safe while maximizing outdoor enjoyment.

Essential Eye Protection by Activity

Water Wonderland: Folsom Lake Recreation

When enjoying Folsom Lake’s refreshing waters:

• Swimming: Wear properly fitted swim goggles to protect against chlorine, bacteria, and underwater hazards. Polarized sunglasses should be worn when not in the water.
• Boating: Polarized sunglasses with retention straps are essential for blocking both direct and reflected UV rays.
• Paddleboarding/Kayaking: Wraparound polarized sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection and secure straps are ideal.

Trail Adventures

For mountain biking at Folsom State Recreation Area or hiking local trails:

• Mountain biking: Consider sports glasses with interchangeable lenses for different light conditions, or protective glasses with impact-resistant lenses.
• Hiking: Polarized sunglasses with side shields provide protection from both UV rays and trail debris. Look for styles with rubber nose pads that won’t slip when sweating.
• Running: Lightweight, secure-fitting sports sunglasses with UV protection are perfect for joggers on the American River Parkway.

Team Sports at Local Parks

Whether your family enjoys soccer at Livermore Community Park or baseball at Lembi Park:

• Ball sports: Sport-specific protective eyewear with polycarbonate lenses offers impact resistance while maintaining clear vision.
• Contact sports: Proper sports goggles or face shields depending on the activity level and age group.

General Outdoor Recreation

For everyday activities like playground visits or community events:

• Playground time: Durable, flexible sunglasses with impact-resistant lenses for children.
• Picnics and outdoor gatherings: Comfortable sunglasses with UV protection for all family members.

Choosing the Right Eyewear

Quality Matters: Features to Look For

When selecting protective eyewear for your family, prioritize:

• 100% UVA/UVB protection: This is non-negotiable for any outdoor eyewear
• Impact resistance: Polycarbonate lenses are ideal for active families
• Proper fit: Especially important for children who may otherwise remove uncomfortable eyewear
• Polarization: Particularly valuable for water activities and driving
• Wraparound styles: These provide better peripheral protection

Age-Specific Considerations

For children (0-5 years):

• Flexible, unbreakable frames
• Headband attachments to keep glasses secure
• Properly sized for smaller faces
• Fun designs that children will want to wear

For school-aged children (6-12):

• More durable construction
• Sports-appropriate styles
• Still lightweight but with more “grown-up” designs

For teens and adults:

• Activity-specific options
• Fashion-forward designs that encourage consistent wear
• Options for prescription integration

Prescription Considerations

If family members require corrective lenses:

• Consider prescription sunglasses for frequent outdoor use
• Explore clip-on or magnetic sun shields for existing glasses
• Investigate sports goggles that accommodate prescription inserts
• Ask about photochromic lenses that darken in response to UV exposure

Creating Healthy Eye Protection Habits

Starting Young

Children learn by example and through consistent routines:

• Make putting on sunglasses as automatic as applying sunscreen
• Create a “gear station” by the door with everyone’s outdoor essentials
• Use positive reinforcement when children wear their eye protection without prompting
• Incorporate eye protection into dress-up play to normalize wearing glasses

Setting Good Examples

Children mimic what they see:

• Parents should consistently wear appropriate eye protection
• Make a show of putting on your own protective eyewear before outdoor activities
• Explain why you’re wearing your sunglasses or goggles in age-appropriate terms
• Never treat protective eyewear as optional or unimportant

Storage and Maintenance Tips

Proper care extends the life of protective eyewear:

• Designate specific storage locations in the car, home, and sports bags
• Clean lenses properly with appropriate cloths and solutions
• Check regularly for scratches or damage that might compromise protection
• Replace children’s eyewear as they grow to ensure proper fit

Quick Pre-Activity Checklist

Before heading out to enjoy Folsom’s outdoor offerings:

• Does everyone have appropriate eye protection?
• Is the eyewear clean and in good condition?
• Do we have backup options if primary eyewear is lost or damaged?
• Have we considered the specific eye risks of today’s planned activities?

Additional Protection Beyond Eyewear

Hats and Visors: The Unsung Heroes

Wide-brimmed hats can block up to 50% of UV radiation from reaching the eyes:

• Baseball caps provide front protection but leave sides exposed
• Bucket hats offer more comprehensive coverage
• Sun visors complement sunglasses by blocking overhead light

Timing Is Everything

Plan outdoor activities strategically:

• Avoid peak UV hours (10 AM – 2 PM) when possible
• Morning hikes at Folsom State Recreation Area are not just cooler but safer for eyes
• Schedule water activities for early morning or late afternoon
• Utilize Folsom’s excellent night recreation options during summer months

Seeking Shade in Folsom Parks

Make use of natural and created shade:

• Picnic under the oak trees at Lew Howard Park
• Bring portable shade structures to less-covered areas like Folsom Lake beaches
• Utilize pavilions and covered areas at local parks for midday breaks
• Position activities near natural shade when possible

Eye-Healthy Nutrition for Outdoor Days

What you eat affects eye health during outdoor activities:

• Pack lutein and zeaxanthin-rich foods (leafy greens, eggs)
• Ensure proper hydration to prevent dry eye discomfort
• Consider omega-3 rich snacks (walnuts, flaxseeds) for general eye health
• Vitamin C foods help combat oxidative stress from UV exposure

Warning Signs of Eye Problems

Know When to Seek Help

Watch for these symptoms during or after outdoor activities:

• Persistent pain or discomfort
• Unusual sensitivity to light
• Vision changes including blurriness or spots
• Redness that doesn’t resolve quickly
• Foreign body sensation that persists after blinking
• Excessive tearing or unusual dryness

Common Outdoor-Related Eye Conditions

Familiarize yourself with these potential issues:

• Photokeratitis: Painful “sunburn” of the eye from UV exposure
• Dry eye syndrome: Exacerbated by wind, sun, and water activities
• Pterygium: Tissue growth on the white of the eye from chronic UV exposure
• Allergic conjunctivitis: Red, itchy eyes often triggered by outdoor allergens
• Foreign body injuries: Particularly common during trail activities

Local Eye Care Resources

Know where to go before you need help:

• Mercy Folsom’s emergency department and urgent care centers for serious injuries
• Adventures in Vision Optometry for non-emergency concerns
• Keep your family eye doctor’s contact information readily accessible