5 Shocking Facts About Eye Safety Every Pickleball Player Should Know | Blinded Wear Co.
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Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, but as its popularity rises, so does the risk of injury. One of the most overlooked aspects of the game? Eye safety. While many players focus on their paddle technique and footwork, they often neglect the importance of protecting their eyes from potential harm.
In this blog, we’ll uncover 5 shocking facts about eye safety that every pickleball player should know—facts that could save you from serious injury. Whether you’re a casual weekend warrior or a competitive tournament player, this guide can help you stay in the game safely and confidently.
1. Eye Injuries Are on the Rise in Pickleball
It’s not just a random statistic—eye injuries in pickleball are becoming more common as the sport grows. According to a 2025 Report by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, over 40% of injuries in racquet sports like pickleball involve eye trauma. As the game speeds up, so do the risks. A fast-moving pickleball or an accidental paddle swing can easily cause eye damage.
Shocking Fact: Eye injuries in pickleball have risen by 35% in the last 3 years alone. Without proper eye protection, you're at risk of serious injury.
Want to avoid becoming a statistic? Start by protecting your vision with prescription pickleball eyewear from Blinded Wear.
2. Over 90% of Eye Injuries Are Preventable
Many pickleball players are still not wearing protective eyewear during games. However, studies show that 90% of eye injuries can be prevented with the right glasses. Whether you’re playing indoors or outdoors, wearing prescription or non-prescription safety glasses is a simple yet effective way to shield your eyes from potential harm.
Shocking Fact: Wearing protective eyewear reduces the risk of permanent eye injury by up to 90%. So why aren’t more players protecting their eyes?
- Fear of discomfort
- Not knowing eyewear options exist
- Worry about looking “uncool”
Don’t compromise your safety for style. Blinded Wear combines impact-rated lenses with modern, lightweight frames—so you never have to choose between form and function.
3. A High-Speed Pickleball Can Cause Serious Damage
Yes, the pickleball is perforated and lightweight—but don’t let that fool you. During intense rallies, the ball can travel at speeds up to 50 mph. At this velocity, a direct hit to the eye can cause serious trauma including:
- Corneal abrasions
- Orbital fractures
- Retinal detachment
- Permanent vision loss
Shocking Fact: A pickleball moving at 50 mph can cause permanent eye damage in seconds. You need proper eye protection—not just sunglasses, but impact-resistant lenses with a secure fit.
Try the Zebra II RX, which offers wraparound lens coverage, anti-fog clarity, and a secure no-slip design ideal for high-speed rallies.
4. Indoor Courts Pose Unique Eye Safety Risks
Outdoor pickleball gets plenty of attention for UV glare and heat—but indoor courts pose their own hidden dangers for the eyes. Between bright overhead lights, shadows, and reflective gym surfaces, visibility is often compromised.
Without optical correction or light-filtering lenses, your eyes are more likely to misjudge ball movement or paddle position, putting you in harm’s way.
Shocking Fact: 55% of eye injuries in pickleball happen indoors, often due to poor lighting, crowded play, or low-visibility glasses that fog or slide during play.
That’s why glasses like the Crystal Wave II RX feature anti-fog and clear lens options tailored to indoor environments while still offering high impact protection.
5. Prescription Pickleball Eyewear Exists — And It’s Essential
If you’re someone who wears glasses for reading, driving, or working at a computer, playing pickleball without vision correction is already a disadvantage. But it’s also dangerous. Many recreational players leave their prescription glasses at home or wear them under loose safety goggles—an unstable and unsafe combination.
Shocking Fact: Over 25% of pickleball players need corrective lenses but play without proper prescription sports eyewear. That’s a recipe for both injury and poor on-court performance.
Blinded Wear offers fully personalized RX pickleball glasses designed for athletes who demand protection and clarity—indoors, outdoors, and everywhere in between.
Need help choosing the right pair? Take our 30-second sunglasses quiz and get matched with your ideal eyewear now.
Bonus: What Makes Blinded Wear Different?
Blinded Wear isn’t just another sports eyewear brand. We’re optician-led and athlete-focused. Every product is:
- RX-ready: Compatible with high-index, single-vision or progressive lenses
- Impact-tested: Built to withstand high-speed collisions
- Style-forward: Bold colors, unique frames, and pro-inspired designs
- Backed by warranty: Our protection plan covers your investment
Every RX frame is built for performance, whether you choose the Red Shine RX for flash or the Frost RX for ultra-light stability.
Real Player Reviews
“I took a hit to the side of the head with a ball last month—my Frost RX glasses didn’t even budge. Best investment I’ve made for my game.”
– Mark D., AZ
“The Zebra II RX lenses are insanely clear, even on foggy mornings. And they actually stay on my face when I dive. I won’t play without them.”
– Alicia T., FL
“Was skeptical at first, but these are way better than my Oakleys. Way more durable, and prescription is perfect.”
– Jason F., CA
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Whether you’re just starting out or competing at a high level, protecting your vision should be your #1 priority on the court. Eye injuries are on the rise, and the consequences can be permanent. Fortunately, with performance-tested RX eyewear, you can protect your vision without sacrificing style, clarity, or comfort.
Ready to safeguard your eyes?
Related Reads
- RX Glasses That Hold Up to Rough Play and Travel
- Dynamic Visual Acuity: The Secret Weapon in RX Glasses
- Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Lenses for Sports
Stay safe. Play smart. And always protect your vision.