Leo Martínez
If you've ever watched a baseball game, you might have noticed the black paint or stripes under the players' eyes. Colloquially known as war paint, this phenomenon is called eye black and is used by athletes in sports such as baseball, American football, softball, and lacrosse. While the use of eye black was popularised by baseball legend Babe Ruth in the 1920s and 1930s, its purpose remains a topic of discussion. Some believe it reduces glare from the sun or stadium lights, enhancing an athlete's ability to track moving objects. Others argue that it provides a psychological advantage, boosting players' confidence and competitiveness. Despite various studies on the topic, the effectiveness of eye black remains inconclusive.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Reduce glare from sunlight or stadium lights, enhance competitiveness, improve ability to differentiate between light and dark, improve confidence |
| Forms | Grease, synthetic sticker, war paint, eye shade, glob of grease, strip of grease, anti-glare sticker, petroleum jelly |
| Colors | Black, white |
| Materials | Ashes of burned cork, shoe polish, paraffin, beeswax, carbon soot |
| Application | Horizontal line under each eye, rectangles, war paint-style, smudgy mustache, masks, spider web, raccoon, wedge-like shapes, crosses, scratch marks, plus signs, hearts |
| Rules and Regulations | No unapproved messages and symbols, no use as war paint or facial decoration in the NCAA, restrictions on eye shade in high school football |
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What You'll Learn
The history of eye black
The use of dark paint or "eye black" under the eyes of baseball players is a practice that dates back to the early 20th century. One of the earliest known instances of a player wearing eye black was baseball legend Babe Ruth, who, in or around the 1930s, used grease under his eyes in an attempt to reduce sun glare. Ruth's eye black was made from a combination of burnt cork ashes and shoe polish. Other baseball players followed this trend, believing it gave them a psychological advantage and enhanced their competitiveness.
Over time, the use of eye black spread to other sports, including American football, softball, and lacrosse. Players in these sports also sought to mitigate the effects of bright sunlight or stadium floodlights, which can impede depth perception and the ability to catch or track a ball in the air. While the effectiveness of eye black has been debated, with some researchers questioning its on-the-field advantage, a study by Yale researchers found that it does indeed reduce glare.
The application of eye black is also believed to have a psychological component. Players who wear eye black often report feeling more confident in their skills due to perceived sight improvements, regardless of whether these improvements are real or a placebo effect. The ritual of applying eye black, similar to war paint, is part of the pre-game process for many athletes, contributing to their mental preparation and competitiveness.
While the original purpose of eye black was to reduce glare, it has evolved into an avenue for self-expression for some athletes. Creative designs, shapes, and patterns have emerged, with players experimenting with war paint-style eye blacks, smudgy mustaches, masks, spider webs, and more. However, governing bodies like the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) have implemented rules prohibiting unapproved messages, symbols, and decorations on eye blacks.
Today, eye black comes in various forms, including traditional grease, synthetic stickers, and anti-glare strips. While the debate continues over its effectiveness in reducing glare, many athletes in baseball and other sports continue to rely on eye black as part of their competitive routine.
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The science behind eye black
The use of eye black in sports, particularly baseball, has been a long-standing tradition. The application of dark paint or grease under the eyes of baseball players is often referred to as "war paint", with the belief that it provides a psychological boost and enhances competitiveness. The science behind eye black, however, goes beyond this mental aspect.
The primary function of eye black is to reduce glare from sunlight or stadium lights, thereby improving an athlete's vision. The rationale is based on the understanding that black absorbs most light frequencies, reducing the amount of glare that reaches the eyes. By absorbing excessive light from peripheral vision, eye black is thought to increase the contrast of objects of focus, making it easier for players to track the ball against a bright sky. This theory has been tested in various studies, including those conducted by Yale University, the University of New Hampshire, and Brian DeBroff and Patricia Pahk.
While the effectiveness of eye black in reducing glare has been debated, with some studies finding minimal glare reduction, others have confirmed its ability to improve an athlete's ability to differentiate between light and dark. For example, an episode of MythBusters revealed that while eye black did not eliminate glare, it enhanced the ability to track moving objects in sunny conditions. Additionally, a study by Yale researchers supported the glare reduction claim. However, the impact of glare reduction on actual athletic performance remains uncertain. Dr. Kenneth Fuld, a researcher at the University of New Hampshire, expressed doubt about the on-the-field advantage, noting that tennis players excel without the use of eye black.
Beyond the potential visual benefits, the application of eye black also holds a psychological significance for players. Some athletes believe that eye black improves their sight, leading to increased confidence in their skills, regardless of whether the improvement is real or a placebo effect. This mental aspect, along with the potential for improved depth perception and ball tracking, contributes to the continued use of eye black in baseball and other sports.
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The psychological benefits of eye black
The use of eye black in baseball dates back to the 1930s when baseball legend Babe Ruth was one of the first athletes reported to sport a black smudge under his eyes. The practice soon became a staple in nearly every American sporting event. While the effectiveness of eye black has not been conclusively proven, it is believed to provide psychological benefits to players.
One of the main psychological benefits of eye black is the feeling of competitiveness and confidence that it instills in players. When Babe Ruth began using eye black, other players followed suit because it gave them a psychological advantage and enhanced their competitiveness. Similarly, players who wear eye black today report feeling more confident in their skills due to perceived improvements in their vision. This increased confidence can lead to improved performance on the field.
Eye black also plays a role in the rituals and pre-game preparation of baseball players. Applying eye black is often compared to applying war paint, and many players believe that if they feel good, they will play good. Having a process and a ritual before a game can help players feel more prepared to compete and perform at their best.
Additionally, eye black can improve an athlete's ability to differentiate between light and dark, enhancing their ability to track moving objects in sunny environments. While this benefit is not solely psychological, it can contribute to the overall mental game of baseball players. Improved object tracking can lead to increased confidence and better decision-making on the field.
While the psychological benefits of eye black are important, it is worth noting that the physical benefits of reducing glare and improving vision are also factors that contribute to its popularity among baseball players. The combination of physical and psychological advantages makes eye black a valuable tool for many athletes.
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The different styles of eye black
The use of eye black in sports dates back to the 1930s when baseball legend Babe Ruth used grease under his eyes to reduce sun glare. Over the years, different styles and forms of eye black have emerged, with varying levels of effectiveness and popularity among athletes. Here are some of the notable styles:
- The Original EyeBlack: This is the classic style of eye black that is widely recognised. It is made with medical-grade tape, ensuring both safety and durability. The Original EyeBlack is a popular choice for athletes in various outdoor sports, including baseball, softball, football, and lacrosse. Its effectiveness in glare reduction has been debated, with some studies suggesting it may offer a slight advantage in distinguishing between light and dark.
- Anti-Glare Stickers: As a modern alternative to the traditional grease application, anti-glare stickers have emerged as a convenient option. These stickers are designed to be easily applied and removed, making them a practical choice for athletes. However, some traditionalists argue that the original grease form is more effective.
- Petroleum Jelly: In a similar manner to the original grease application, petroleum jelly has also been explored as a potential glare reducer. However, its effectiveness has not been conclusively proven, and it is less commonly used compared to other styles.
- Temporary Tattoos: Eye black has evolved to include stylish temporary tattoo options. These are often peel-and-stick designs printed on clear material, making them versatile and appealing to fans who want to show their support for their favourite teams or players.
- Customisable Options: Some companies offer customisable eye black styles, allowing athletes to express themselves on and off the field. These options include various shapes and designs, such as the "Warrior" and "Clear" styles, providing a unique and personalised touch to the functional aspect of eye black.
While the effectiveness of eye black in reducing glare has been debated and studied, with some inconclusive results, many athletes continue to use it for the psychological advantage it provides and its potential benefits in certain lighting conditions.
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Rules and regulations surrounding eye black
The use of eye black in baseball dates back to the 1930s when the legendary player Babe Ruth used a grease made from burnt cork ashes and shoe polish to reduce sun glare. While the science behind its effectiveness is disputed, with some studies showing minimal glare reduction, it is believed to aid in distinguishing between light and dark, enhancing a player's ability to track moving objects.
Over time, the application of eye black evolved, with players at the college level writing short messages on their adhesive eye black stickers. This trend was popularised by Reggie Bush, who included homages to his hometown, and later by Tim Tebow, who displayed Bible verse references. However, this practice was banned in 2010 by the NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel, prohibiting any symbols or messages on eye black. This rule is colloquially known as the "Tim Tebow rule."
In terms of specific regulations, the National Football League's rulebook stipulates that players are barred from "wearing, displaying, or otherwise conveying personal messages either in writing or illustration" without prior approval from the League office. This rule has been enforced through fines for players advocating for cancer awareness or displaying profanity.
As of 2023, there are no specific rules in Major League Baseball (MLB) regarding the use of symbols and messages on eye black. However, it is important for players to adhere to the guidelines set by their respective leagues and competitions. Umpires are advised to be proactive and request players to remove inappropriate or distracting eye black rather than eject them from the game.
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Frequently asked questions
Baseball players wear dark paint under their eyes to reduce glare from sunlight or stadium lights. The dark paint is also known as eye black or eye shade.
The colour black absorbs most light frequencies, so the underlying concept behind eye black is that it reduces the amount of glare that reaches the eyes.
Researchers are unsure how much of an "on-the-field" advantage eye black provides. While some studies have found that eye black does reduce glare, others have found that it does not eliminate glare but instead improves an athlete's ability to differentiate between light and dark.
No, wearing eye black is optional for baseball players. However, there are rules in place regarding the use of symbols and messages on eye black. For example, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has banned any unapproved messages and symbols on eye blacks.
Yes, eye black is commonly used by athletes in American football, softball, and lacrosse.
