We have raised our product prices on April 30th in line with Royal Mail's recent large rises and due to a recent upgrade in the sports cases this price has been amended also to give our customers a better quality product.
Tuesday, 01 May 2012
Sunday, 18 December 2011
Christmas Competition
Enter to win one of 12 Eyeglass Lights! All you need to do to enter the draw is 'Like us' on our Facebook page. This will allow you to tag yourself on the Christmas tree image. Once tagged, your name will be entered into the draw. 12 winners will be randomly chosen from names tagged on the photo on December 31st. Winners names will be posted on the facebook fan page on New Years Day! Help us to spread the word by sharing this with your facebook profile. Click here for the competition.
Sunday, 25 September 2011
Thursday, 08 September 2011
Is Your Vision Still Fit To Drive?
Recent research shows an astounding number of motorists are driving without meeting the minimum vision requirement. Several think that they are safe since passing the number plate eye test on their driving test which in some cases can be decades ago!
There are new new driving eyesight standards due to be introduced into UK law by 2013 as part of EU Directive 2009/113/EC.
It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure his/her eyesight is within the law for driving safely.
This problem can only be exacerbated by the Department of Transport who have been reviewing the outdated number plate test with proposals to make it easier rather than harder making it less safe on Britain’s roads. The decision for this has been postponed until at least October this year.
If the D. O. T. want to help decrease accidents on the road then they would do well to make it harder by scrapping the number plate test and getting new driving applicants to take a proper eye test by a registered optician before the applicant can take the test.
Written for Kontrol Sports who retail prescription driving sunglasses.
Monday, 22 August 2011
Universal LED Light For All Glasses
Kontrolsports UK are proud to announce that we now distribute HKG Innovation's Eyeglass Light.
An innovative invention from the US, this very light to wear item will solve a lot of personal lighting problems people may have in the dark. Before, most personal lights have been integrated within the frame of the glasses, making it partially inaccessible to some users including prescription wearers.
The universal compact unit weighs less than 20 grams and you'll hardly notice it even with the weight of the 2 CR2032 lithium batteries to power the strong LED flood beam of light. Easy to clamp on most thicknesses and widths of glasses and safety glasses with a long flexible arm to direct the light to any position you wish. A hands free light that frees up both hands to do their work instead of trying to balance a torch in the right direction.. how many times have you tried to do that?
We can see a wide variety of uses for the eyeglass light especially in the DIY market for contractors and home repairs where there is no lighting due to dark corners or wiring repairs with the electricity off. Other uses for many hobbies that need extra light to see detail as model building, needlework, embroidery, jewellery making, in fact most hobbies that involve small fiddly parts. Outdoor activities such as night fishing, cycling, walking, map reading, vehicle breakdowns would benefit from this device.
If you are a consumer and would be interested in buying this item, you can buy it here.
If you are a business retailer and would be interested in selling these to your customers please contact us here.
Invented and bought to market in the US by a young inventor, she says "We are very excited about having KONTROLSPORTS as our UK distributor of The Eyeglass Light. Kontrolsports is an ideal fit for our product. This is only the beginning, and we are looking forward to a long business relationship with them hopefully bring more innovative products to the market." H. Gerolemou for HKG Innovations LLC
Monday, 15 August 2011
Cataract Surgery - What Is Involved?
Cataract surgery was once conducted with scalpels on a level that modern professionals would find unthinkable, but medical technology and modern electronics have transformed the procedure into a painless outpatient procedure with an extremely rapid recovery. Patients generally experience no discomfort and return to normal activities the very next day.
The eye is essentially a sphere with an opening, called the pupil, to let in light. A transparent crystalline lens is positioned within the pupil, and the interior of the eye is filled with a clear, gelatinous fluid. The shape of the lens is adjusted by the iris to focus the light entering the pupil. The lens is held in place by a thin, transparent layer called the cornea.
Light must pass through the cornea, the lens, and the gelatinous fluid inside of the eye to reach the retina. This is where light is transformed into the signals transmitted by the optic nerve to the visual cortex of the brain. If the transmission of light is impeded in any way, vision is impaired.
A cataract is a cloudiness that develops in the lens of the eye. Most patients with cataracts are elderly, but certain chronic illnesses can increase the likelihood of developing cataracts at earlier ages. Without treatment, the cloudiness can increase to such a level that almost no light passes to the retina.
In modern cataract surgery, a tiny incision is made through the cornea at the side of the lens. The lens is fragmented with high frequency vibrations and removed, and an artificial lens is inserted to replace it. Patients are anaesthetised but conscious for this procedure.
There are multiple varieties of artificial lenses, and all are extremely flexible. They are folded to a fraction of their normal size and unfolded once they have been inserted. This allows the corneal incision to be much smaller than the diameter of the lens and to heal rapidly.
The artificial lens has a certain corrective element. Patients who wear eyeglasses prior to cataract surgery often require far weaker prescription lenses afterward. New eyeglasses are not prescribed until the incision has completely healed and the pupil has gradually recovered from chemical dilation.
Cataract surgery has potential issues which may concern patients. Although patients can return to normal activities the day following the surgery, functioning with uncorrected vision in the post-operative eye can be troublesome.
Most cataract surgeries require a follow-up treatment approximately one year after surgery. The thin layer of cornea that holds the artificial lens in place gradually develops a yellow tint after surgery. An ophthalmologist treats this condition by using a laser to remove the yellowed layer. The treatment is required only one time, is completely painless, and is usually completed during an office visit.
Les writes about laser eye surgery for Personal Eyes where you can find out more about eye procedures to suit your lifestyle.
Thankyou Les for this informative article for Kontrolsports who provide suitable eyewear for post op eye surgery to help relieve pain from sensitive light.
Tuesday, 19 July 2011
Top Types of Sunglasses for Water Sports
Sure, you could stop by the dollar store on your way to the beach, pick up a 99 cent pair of sunglasses and a candy bar with a swipe of your credit card, then be on your way. But, if you’re reading this article, you already know that quality sunglasses are an investment in your eyes. If you’re serious about surfing, kayaking, fishing, wakeboarding, or other water sports, you need serious shades.
In this article, we’ll give shoppers an overview of which factors make a pair of sunglasses good for water sports, along with recommendations on which Kontrol shades best fit the description.
99 to 100% UV Protection
Ultraviolet light from the sun can lead to short-term and long-term eye problems, such as pterygium, photokeratitis, cataracts, and eye cancer. Experts advise wearing sunglasses that filter or reflect 99 to 100% of UVA and UVB light. All of the Kontrol shades we’ll cover in this article block 99.9% of UVA and UVB rays.
Polycarbonate lenses
Glass lenses aren’t very well suited to water sports. They’re fairly heavy and can shatter on impact. For water activities, stick to polycarbonate lenses. They’re lighter, tougher, and more shatter resistant. Again, all of the Kontrol shades we’ll mention here have polycarbonate lenses.
Moderate tint, such as a smoke tint
A moderate tint, such as a grey or smoke tint, works well for water sports. You probably wouldn’t want very lightly tinted glasses, since water sports are practiced during the day, when it’s bright out. Very dark tints would also be a problem, since you need to stay alert and be able to see what’s going on clearly.
A smoke tint works nicely because it doesn’t distort colors, but makes sunny conditions easier on your eyes. The shades in this article all have a smoke tint or can be ordered with one.
Polarization
Polarized lenses are great for water activities, especially those that require you to be perpendicular to the water’s surface for long periods of time, like fishing. When light hits a flat surface, like water, it’s reflected perpendicular to the surface. This creates a reflected glare that’s very intense. Since polarized lenses have micro crystals lined up horizontally, they can block this glare.
Kontrol’s Polar Ice polarised sunglasses are made to block bothersome glare so you can enjoy fishing and other relaxing water activities again.
Flexible Frame
If you’ll be taking part in more active water sports, like surfing or kayaking, you may need a frame that’s made to hold on to your skull. For this, a flexible frame material would be best. Frames made this way can bend back into shape easily, so they’re less likely to go swimming off without you. For added security Kontrol also have floating straps to keep those vital sunglasses on.
Gelshock SP, Moondog II Cobalt, Cosmic, Gelshock Smoke, and Aero all have a very flexible TR90 frame that will bend along with you. If you go for Prescription sunglasses, try Aero or Stratos shades, you can order them with a smoke tint and polarized lenses, giving them the perfect traits for water sports.
As you can see, sunglasses aren’t just a beach fashion statement, they are sports equipment that can either give you an edge or put you at a disadvantage. That’s why it’s important to buy the shades that are right for you.
Thanks to Jamie for this article written for Kontrolsports sunglasses:
Jamie Scott is a social media advocate with the US-based travel rewards credit cards website, CreditDonkey. Athletes, you probably wouldn’t buy a surfboard or lifejacket for a dollar, so why do this with another important piece of sports equipment? Your eyes do a lot for you, so return the favor with a quality pair of sports sunglasses.
Thursday, 16 June 2011
Keen Cyclist Reviews Our Sunglasses
As a keen cyclist I have used countless number of sunglasses, at different times of year I need different levels of lens tint so I can avoid the nightmare glare of the sun and avoid any potential incidents.
I recently got hold of a pair for Kontrol Sports Tank sunglasses to try out during the sunnier months which feature a smoke coloured lenses.
When the glasses arrived in the post they were supplied with a sturdy case which kept the glasses in perfect condition during the trials and tribulations of the postal service.
First impressions of the glasses were good, the frames looked fantastic and were incredibly lightweight which is perfect when you intend on going for a long distance ride. After trying them on it was clear that they were comfortable to the point of me not even noticing that I was wearing them whilst riding.
The lenses gave me clear and glare free vision whilst riding in both bright sunlight and on cloudier days which impressed me, they gave me the confidence to focus on my ride rather than worry about whether the sun will blind me when I go around the next corner.
One of the issues I have found with some sunglasses is they have a habit of steaming up when you have been riding for a while and started to get a hot face (not an attractive look I admit). However I didn’t encounter this problem with the Kontrol Sport glasses even when I took part in a 35 mile charity ride in pretty miserable conditions.
I really can’t find any fault with the glasses, in my opinion they offer excellent performance and superb value for money.
Thanks Mackenzie for providing this review!
Thursday, 09 June 2011
Eye Vitamins for Macular Degeneration
The importance of good sight is known to all; unfortunately the percentage of people who managed to keep and protect the quality of their eye sight is very little. Among the most common type of eye – related problems is Macular Degeneration, this is the breaking down of the macula of the eye. Macula is a tiny region at the back of the eye that enables a person to see small, fine details vividly. When this macula is damaged, it tends to malfunction thus, blurriness or darkness happens in the center of the vision making activities like reading, sewing and threading a needle either challenging or impossible.
There are however, ways to keep the eyes healthy from diseases using sunglasses for example may be beneficial to counter macular degeneration, not reading in the dark and not watching the TV too close may also be helpful for the eyes. But still, vitamins are your best bet when it comes to taking care of the eyes, supplements like vitamin C, beta carotene, zinc and vitamin E are all rich in nutrients and antioxidants that may help one battle macular degeneration as well as other eye – related diseases. Not only will they reduce your chances of acquiring and developing eye problems, they may also help in optimizing your vision.
Vitamin A leads the pack as it is very important for night vision. It is likewise significant in wound healing and effective function of the immune system. Since beta – carotene is vitamin A's precursor; it was also placed by AREDS in their formula. The benefits of beta carotene include boosting of the immune system, acting as antioxidant and in some cases, may also help in reducing risks of cancer. AREDS stands for Age Related Eye Diseases Study. It was a study sponsored by the National Eye Institute that belongs to the National Institutes of Health based in the United States. They focused on exploring the history and risk factors of macular degeneration and cataract as well as the effect of zinc and antioxidants with respect to the two conditions.
After A comes B but in a complex form. Vitamin B-complex that contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12 folic acid, biotin and choline are believed to may help lessen chronic inflammation. According to studies, vitamin B complex may have a significant contribution to lessening the risks of macular degeneration as well as aid in the treatment of uveitis, known to cause blindness. In the same way it is known to prevent elevated homocysteine levels, which has been linked with vascular problems
Vitamin C is also part of the AREDS formula. Vitamin D, on the other hand, is greatly linked to decreased risk of macular degeneration. Vitamin E is likewise part of the ARED formula. Vitamin E deficiency is characterized by muscle weakness, involuntary movement, poor coordination, nerve damage and breakage of the red blood class that may eventually result to anemia.
Aside from these mentioned vitamins, Lutein, a kind of carotenoids, Omega – 3 and bioflavonids which makes vitamin C absorption better, are also believe to prevent macular degeneration and bring about healthy eye sight.
Byline:
Kontrol Sports, would like to thank Oktay for providing this guest article. Oktay is a health enthusiast and he has written several articles about the advantages of healthy living and regular intake of supplements. He has discussed the benefits of beta–carotene and vitamin C benefits to name but a few.
Sunday, 05 June 2011
Why skiing is such a great spring sport!
When we think of skiing we naturally think about winter, the cold air, snow and dark evenings. Christmas time in the mountains can be a wonderful experience and snow conditions throughout the months of January, February and early March in the northern hemisphere are usually at their best.
But, the official ski season in many resorts runs through until the end of April and even into May. The 2011 winter season in parts of North America has seen record snowfalls and many resorts including Aspen are opening right through into June!
So what should we expect when we ski in the springtime? One thing we can guarantee is that the days will be longer as the sun rises earlier and sets later on. This means more time on the slopes as many resorts will open their lifts for longer. The weather is more likely to be warmer and sunnier in March and April too, although don’t think this is a certainty. In the mountains, the weather can change very quickly and heavy snowstorms can often occur at any time of the year.
If you are lucky enough to get a long period of sunshine together with good snow conditions then the sun will slowly transform the snow as it warms it up. As the temperature rises during the day, the top layer of snow will melt, especially during the afternoon. At night, the cold air returns and re-freezes the snow and the cycle begins again the following day. If this pattern continues for several days then what we know as spring snow, or corn snow, starts to form. This type of snow is usually found off piste as it is left un-touched by skiers and machinery. It provides a fantastic surface to ski on in the right conditions, usually somewhere in the middle of the cycle as the top layer starts to thaw.
Ski resorts in late spring, especially after Easter are usually much quieter than in peak season. Prices for accommodation are lower and there is a relaxed atmosphere as people enjoy the sunshine. Sitting outside a bar or restaurant with some food and a drink after skiing is a great way to end the day and that’s not always possible to do in the middle of winter.
Make sure, if you do ski in the spring or early summer to be well protected. Essential items that you require when you are skiing, like sunglasses, ski goggles, hats and gloves, are just as important to have with you at all times in the spring. Sunglasses protect your eyes from the strong glare of the sun and when on the snow, the effects of the light are magnified many times over. Sun cream is also essential to prevent sunburn and even if the temperature is below freezing, the suns strength in the mountains can be a very powerful force.
If you are thinking about skiing in the spring, check out some of the places where the snow record at that time of year is good. In general, the higher altitude resorts do stay open longer and the runs down to resort level might be open right through until the end of the season. Every year varies a little so it’s worth keeping an eye on the snow conditions throughout the winter before decided where to go.
Here are some European resorts that I recommend for spring or even summer* skiing:
Switzerland – Verbier, Zermatt*
France – Les Deux Alpes*, Val d’Isere, Chamonix
Austria – St Anton, Hintertux*, Kitzsteinhorn*
Norway – Stryn*
This post was written by Robert Stewart of The Skiing Department Blog. Robert is a qualified ISIA ski instructor and professional Alpine skier and his blog has the latest information on many different aspects of the sport, from beginners skiing tips to ski clothing reviews. He can also be followed on Twitter @skiing_blog
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