White water rafting is a thrilling activity that allows you to experience the power of nature up close. White water rafting is an exhilarating concept, but many people who wear glasses struggle with the question of whether they can wear their glasses while rafting. This article will address this frequent worry, go over the advantages of rafting while wearing glasses, and provide important advice and workarounds for anyone who wants to experience this wonderful fun without having their eyesight compromised.
The Dilemma of Wearing Glasses While Rafting
So the question remains: Can you wear glasses white water rafting?
One of the most common questions we get from first-time white water rafters here at Southeastern Expeditions is whether they can wear their glasses when they’re on the river. While there’s no rule against wearing glasses, it’s not advisable for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Possible loss: Some parts of the river can get rough, and the surf can knock off even the most tightly fitting glasses. You can wear a strap or a specially designed eyeglass holder, but there’s no guarantee that they’ll stay in place. Some people also find that straps and holders are uncomfortable.
- Blotches: You’re going to get splashed while you’re on the river — there’s no way to avoid it. When water splashes, it can obscure your vision. You’ll need to wipe your glasses off frequently to maintain clear vision, which isn’t practical while holding onto your paddles.
- Fogging: The combination of warm, humid air and cold water can create steam that will cause your glasses to fog up. Steamy lenses can completely obstruct your vision, which can be dangerous when you’re navigating rough waters.
If you decide on wearing eyeglasses, we recommend wearing your backup glasses when you’re white water rafting. The last thing you want is to lose or damage expensive eyewear. However, there are also certain advantages to white-water rafting with glasses.
Benefits of Wearing Glasses on the River
- Security First: Vision is essential for rafting safety. Wearing glasses makes the experience safer and more fun by allowing you to see your fellow rafters clearly, foresee hazards, and react quickly to the guide’s instructions. You must be able to see any obstacles that lie ahead on the river so that you can assist your fellow rafters in paddling around them. And you don’t want to miss out on all the spectacular scenery.
- Safety and Accurate Navigation: White water rafting glasses allow you to have lightning-fast reflexes and exact navigation. Rapids can quickly morph and shift, and rocks and other impediments can appear out of nowhere. You can precisely analyze your surroundings, predict the path of the river, and react quickly to the guide’s directions if your vision is clear. You and your fellow rafters will be safer thanks to this deeper comprehension.
Tips for Rafting with Glasses
- Secure Straps or Retainers: Invest in specific straps or retainers for your glasses to keep them firmly connected to your head. These add-ons guard against unintentional loss over extremely choppy river sections. We sell these in our Outfitter Shop.
- Anti-fog measures: Glasses that are fogged up can be caused by a mix of water splashes and fluctuating temperatures. To keep your lenses clear and your vision clear, use anti-fog treatments or wipes.
- Pick Robust Frames: Select eyewear with a strong frame that can endure some rough treatment. Durable frames are less prone to flex or snap when subjected to rafting pressure.
- Keep a Backup Pair Close by: While taking precautions to protect your glasses is important, it’s always a good idea to carry a backup set of prescription glasses in case the unexpected occurs.
Alternatives
Some choices are available to rafters and kayakers who don’t want to wear glasses while they’re on the river but can’t see well enough without them:
- Contact lenses: Many rafters have had success wearing contacts. Unlike glasses, they won’t get knocked off, and they don’t require frequent adjustments to keep them in place. However, contact lenses are still susceptible to splashing, and there have been many instances where rafters lost a lens to a high wave.
- Prescription goggles: While there’s no such thing as white water rafting glasses, there’s another option. Specialty eyewear such as prescription sports goggles will fit more securely than regular eyeglasses, but they won’t always resolve the splashing or fogging issues. Goggles also take some getting used to, so you might want to wear them a few times before going on your white water rafting journey.
Final Word
You may safely negotiate the rapids, take in the spectacular landscape, and protect your own safety by following the advice and suggestions provided in this article. Remember that the goal is to prioritize both your eyesight and the excitement of the ride, whether you decide to convert to contact lenses, opt for prescription goggles, or fix your glasses with retainers. So don’t worry, embark on your white water rafting adventure today.