Helmets should be worn during batting, fielding, and ice activities. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the leading cause of death due to a sport related injury is a brain injury; therefore, wearing a helmet not only reduces the risk of injury, but it potentially saves one from suffering from head trauma or death.
Eyewear, including protective goggles and glasses, should be worn for various activities including swimming, basketball, and racquetball. Eyewear is essential to preventing serious injuries to the eyes, including corneal abrasion (scratched eye), or even temporary to permanent loss of sight.
The knees are the most active part of a person's body during sporting activities. Knee pads provide protection if an individual falls down or collides with another player during activities such as volleyball, baseball, or football.
Face shields are used to protect the face when playing in close-contact sports. Face shields are extremely important they can protect a person from facial injuries including bone and jaw fractures.
Although mouth guards are not normally used in physical education classes, the protective rubber material used in sports such as soccer and football can reduce the risk of dental injuries and even loss of teeth.