Are Athletes Better at Perceiving Colors?

February 26, 2026 - 00:51

New research is shedding light on a surprising potential advantage in the world of sports: superior color vision. A recent study has delved into the differences in color perception between athletes and non-athletes, uncovering notable distinctions linked to an individual's sporting environment.

The key finding indicates that athletes who regularly train and compete outdoors demonstrate a significant edge in their peripheral color vision. This means they are better at accurately identifying colors in their side vision compared to both non-athletes and athletes whose sports are primarily played indoors.

Scientists theorize that this enhanced ability stems from the dynamic and visually complex environments outdoor athletes must constantly navigate. The need to rapidly process information from a wide field of view—such as tracking a ball against a varied background, noting player positions, or adjusting to changing light—may train the visual system to become more adept at discerning colors in the periphery. This perceptual skill could contribute to faster reaction times and improved situational awareness during competition.

The study highlights how the specific demands of a sport can potentially shape fundamental sensory abilities, suggesting that athletic training does more than build muscle—it might also refine the very way athletes see the world around them.