Pickleball may not seem like a high-risk sport, but ask any experienced player, and they’ll tell you: the court can be a dangerous place for your eyes. As the game gets faster and more competitive, eye injuries are becoming more common and more serious. Whether you’re playing indoors under fluorescent lights or outside under the sun, your eyes are vulnerable to fast-flying pickleballs and accidental paddle hits.
Here’s what every pickleball player needs to know about protecting their eyes—and why wearing protective eyewear should be just as standard as lacing up your shoes.
The Risk is Real: How Eye Injuries Happen in Pickleball
You might think, “It’s just a wiffle ball—how bad could it be?” But consider this: the average pickleball can travel at over 40 mph during play, and in higher-level games, it can exceed 60 mph—especially during fast hands battles at the net.
Eye injuries can happen in several ways:
- A drive or smash to the face during close-range volleys.
- An accidental paddle swing from a partner in doubles.
- A ricochet off the net or your paddle that catches you off guard.
- Poor communication on middle balls, leading to head-on collisions.
The result? Scratched corneas, bruised retinas, fractured eye sockets, and in rare cases, even permanent vision damage. And remember, you don’t need to be in a tournament to get hurt—many injuries happen in casual rec play.
Who’s Most at Risk?
The short answer: everyone. But some players face greater risk than others:
- Doubles players – especially when standing close to the non-volley zone.
- Older adults – who may have slower reflexes or wear prescription glasses.
- Beginners – who often lack court awareness or paddle control.
- Aggressive hitters – who favor fast shots over soft play.
Seniors Are at a Higher Risk!
With nearly one-fifth of pickleball participants over the age of 65, eye injuries in this population are particularly concerning.
As we age, visual clarity declines, slowing reaction time to fast-moving balls and raising the risk of blunt trauma. Eye tissues also become more fragile and heal more slowly.
Older adults are at an increased risk of developing complications following eye injuries. Studies indicate that seniors have a 2-5 times higher likelihood of experiencing retinal detachment after ocular trauma compared to younger individuals. If not promptly treated, retinal detachment may result in blindness and necessitates immediate surgical intervention.
It only takes one fast ball to the face to change how you view protective gear.
What Kind of Eye Protection Works?
You don’t need to wear bulky goggles like a racquetball player to stay safe. There are several lightweight, comfortable, and even stylish options made specifically for sports like pickleball.
Here’s what to look for:
- Shatterproof / Impact-Resistant Lenses
- These materials resist cracking and protect against high-velocity impacts.
- Wraparound Design (Larger Frames works also)
- Covers the sides of your eyes.
- Protects against stray balls and paddle tips from all angles.
- Anti-Fog & Ventilation
- Especially important for indoor play or humid conditions.
- Look for frames with vents or anti-fog coating.
- UV Protection
- For outdoor play, UV400-rated lenses block 99–100% of UVA/UVB rays.
- Prescription Compatibility
- Many brands offer inserts or Rx-ready frames if you wear glasses.
Common Excuses—and Why They Don’t Hold Up
“It feels weird.”
Like any new gear, it takes a couple of sessions to get used to. Most players forget they’re even wearing them after 10 minutes.
“I don’t play that seriously.”
Eye injuries don’t care how competitive you are. Even a friendly game can turn dangerous in an instant.
“Nobody else wears them.”
Be the player who leads by example. Safety trends start when people see someone else doing it.
Top Picks for Pickleball Eye Protection
Here are some of our recommendations, and one is our favorite.
HEAD Impulse Racquetball/Squash Goggles (Indoor) (Amazon)
- Price: ~$13
- Why Pickleball Players Love It:
- Lightweight, with an adjustable strap for a snug fit.
- Great for indoor or casual play.
- Anti-fog coating, shatterproof lenses.
Oakley Half Jacket 2.0 XL (Outdoor Sunglass-Style Protection) (Amazon)
- Price: ~$165 – $225
- What Makes It Great:
- Stylish sports sunglasses.
- High clarity, excellent impact resistance.
- Customizable lenses—including transitions and Rx options.
- Secure fit for dynamic movement.
Bolle Bolt 2.0 Safety Glasses (All-Around Use) (Amazon)
- Price: ~$15–$160
- Standout Features:
- Lightweight, aerodynamic frame.
- Available in multiple lens tints.
- Great fit for both indoor and outdoor use.
Our Favorite!
Tifosi Pickleball Glasses (Budget-Friendly) (Amazon)
- Price: ~$25 – $90
- Standout Features:
- Great Selection and colors
- Indoor and outdoor options
- Wrap Frames for Complete Coverage and Everyday Carry, Pickleball Protection options
- Sport styling with lenses that extend across your field of vision
- Anti-scratch, anti-shatterproof and anti-fog lenses.
- Rx Options Starting a $99
Final Thoughts: Your Vision Is Worth Protecting
You only get one pair of eyes. While wearing eye protection in pickleball isn’t mandatory (yet), it’s a smart and proactive choice, especially as the game gets faster and more popular. Whether you’re playing competitively or playing a friendly game at the park, protecting your vision is never overkill.
Additionally, you don’t need to sacrifice style or comfort to protect your eyes. Whether you’re a competitive player or weekend warrior, wearing the right eyewear can prevent serious injury and boost your confidence at the net.
So, the next time you pack your paddle and shoes, consider adding one more item to your gear bag: a pair of quality protective glasses. Your future self will thank you.
Stay safe—and keep your eyes on the ball (literally)!