why do football players wear eye black

Football players wear eye black primarily to reduce glare from the sun or bright stadium lights, which helps them see the ball and their teammates more clearly on the field. The black color absorbs reflective light and prevents excess light from reflecting off the cheeks into the eyes, thereby enhancing contrast and focus for better visual tracking of fast-moving objects. Additionally, eye black may have protective qualities, help keep sweat from creating more glare, and serve aesthetic or psychological purposes such as intimidation or tradition. However, while some studies have found that traditional eye black grease reduces glare and improves contrast sensitivity, others have concluded its impact on actual performance is limited. Eye black stickers are also common for ease of use, though they may be slightly less effective than grease. Players have personalized their eye black with logos or messages, but the NCAA and NFL have restrictions on such displays during games.