Expert: Lian Shoemake - 7/9/2003

Question
I heard that soft contact lenses were acceptable in USA boxing.  Is there any truth to that?  Also, you could tell me if they are legal in Canada?

Answer
Hi Bernard,
Thanks for the question.

Yes, a boxer may wear soft contact lenses as stated in the USA Boxing rulebook:
    Any boxer with uncorrected vision between 20/20
    and 20/400 may be permitted to wear soft contact
    lenses. If the lens comes out and the boxer cannot
    continue, the boxer losing the lens will lose by
    RSC.
                                     102.6,(4)(d)

The rule is in accordance with the International Amateur Boxing Association (AIBA) rules, so it applies in Canada as well.

I hope this is helpful, Bernard.
Thanks again for the question.

Regards,
Lian