At the Paris Olympics 2024, the precision and composure of shooters like Kim Yeji & Yusuf Dikeç captivated audiences worldwide. An integral part of their gear (or lack of) —shooting glasses—often sparks curiosity among spectators.

While not mandatory, these specialised eyewear pieces are critical for enhancing performance. Let's explore the reasons behind their usage, focusing on the principles and benefits they offer to athletes.

Kim Ye-ji is a South Korean pistol shooter. She won the silver medal in the women's 10-metre air pistol event at the 2024 Summer Olympics.

The Anatomy of Shooting Glasses

Shooting glasses are more than just eye protection; they are a blend of technology and design aimed at improving a shooter's focus and accuracy. Typically, they include two key components: a blinder and an iris diaphragm.

1. The Blinder: This is a square piece attached to the glasses. Its primary function is to cover the non-dominant eye, preventing the shooter from having to squint. Squinting can cause muscle strain and fatigue over time, which can negatively affect performance. By using a blinder, shooters can keep both eyes open, reducing strain and allowing for a more relaxed and steady aim.
   
   
2. The Iris Diaphragm: This round piece works on the same principle as the aperture in a camera. By reducing the diameter through which the shooter views the target, it increases the depth of field. This means that both the front sight and the target can be in sharper focus simultaneously. It's akin to the pinhole effect, where looking through a small hole made by squeezing your hand enhances focus and clarity for the eye.

Enhancing Focus and Precision

Arjun Babuta is an Indian sports shooter & finished 4th at the Paris Olympics.

The iris diaphragm is particularly crucial because it aids in creating a more controlled and precise aiming environment.

In shooting sports, where even the slightest deviation can be the difference between a bullseye and a miss, such precision tools are invaluable.

Day 2 at Paris Olympics 2024: Shooter Manu Bhaker wins bronze medal in Women’s 10m Air Pistol

The principle behind this is straightforward: a smaller aperture reduces optical aberrations and improves focus, much like how a photographer might use a smaller aperture for greater depth of field.

Prescription Lenses and Regulations

It's important to note that shooters are only allowed to use prescription lenses if they are part of their regular eyewear. No additional optical aids are permitted. This ensures a level playing field where skill and training are paramount.

Yusuf Dikeç is a Turkish sports shooter competing in pistol events. He won the silver medal in the men's 10-metre air pistol event at the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Prescription lenses in shooting glasses are tailored to meet the specific needs of the shooter, allowing them to see the target with utmost clarity while maintaining the regulations of the sport.

The Psychological Edge

Beyond the physical advantages, shooting glasses also offer psychological benefits. The consistency and comfort provided by these glasses allow shooters to focus entirely on their performance. With reduced eye strain and improved visual acuity, athletes can maintain a calm and composed state, essential for precision sports. This is evident in the demeanour of shooters like Kim Yeji, whose focused and relaxed stance has won her the title of ‘coolest’ sharpshooter.

However, on the reverse side, Yusuf Dikec had no eye gear and kept a relaxed stance with his hand in his pocket for the entire of 10-meter air pistol mixed team event and went on to win silver capturing widespread attention. As a retired military personnel, the Turkish shooter forgoes the blinder due to their training in aiming with both eyes open. This highlights the diversity of techniques and preferences among shooters.

Nathan Hales wins ‘absolutely unreal’ gold with Olympic trap shooting record

Shooting glasses, with their blend of practical and psychological benefits, are an essential part of a shooter's equipment. While not mandatory, their ability to enhance focus, reduce eye strain, and improve accuracy makes them a valuable asset for athletes at events like the Paris Olympics 2024.

The performance of shooters like Kim Yeji, who seamlessly integrate these tools into their routine, showcases the profound impact of eyewear on the precision and success in shooting sports. Whether through the blinder's prevention of squinting or the iris diaphragm's enhancement of focus, shooting glasses epitomise the intersection of technology and athletic prowess.

Au revoir, 
PRET A VOIR