Why Eye Injuries Are Increasing in Pickleball (and How to Stay Safe)

Why Eye Injuries Are Increasing in Pickleball (and How to Stay Safe)

Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., attracting players of all ages and skill levels. But with its rapid growth comes an increase in injuries, particularly eye injuries. Whether from high-speed balls or errant paddles, more players are experiencing eye trauma during games. Here’s why eye injuries are on the rise in pickleball, and how you can protect yourself with the right pickleball eyewear.

Eye Injury Stats: The Rising Risk in Pickleball

As pickleball continues to surge in popularity, the risk of eye injuries is becoming a growing concern. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), eye injuries in racquet sports like pickleball have risen significantly in recent years. In fact, over 40% of injuries reported in racquet sports involve the eyes, with pickleball seeing a steady increase in eye-related incidents due to the sport’s fast-paced nature.

In 2020 alone, over 15,000 pickleball-related injuries were reported, with a noticeable uptick in injuries related to head and eye trauma. Players who neglect proper protection are at a higher risk, especially in doubles play where the action can become more intense, and balls travel at faster speeds.

Why Are Eye Injuries Increasing in Pickleball?

Several factors are contributing to the rise in eye injuries:

  1. Faster Ball Speeds: As players become more skilled, the ball speed increases. A fast-moving pickleball can strike the face and eyes unexpectedly, causing significant damage.

  2. Lack of Eyewear: Many players still play without proper pickleball eyewear, leaving their eyes vulnerable to impacts from errant balls and paddles.

  3. Indoor Play: Indoor pickleball courts, where the lighting is often inconsistent, can create confusing visual cues. This makes it more difficult for players to track the ball accurately, increasing the risk of an eye injury if it’s hit unexpectedly.

  4. Less Awareness: As a relatively new sport, the awareness of the importance of eye protection is still growing. Many players simply don’t think about eye safety until it’s too late.

How to Protect Your Eyes While Playing Pickleball

The good news is that protecting your eyes during pickleball is easy with the right eyewear. Here are some tips for staying safe:

  1. Always Wear Protective Eyewear: Whether you wear prescription pickleball sunglasses or non-prescription eyewear, make sure to invest in high-quality pickleball glasses with impact-resistant lenses. Our Waved II glasses are designed to provide the best protection and clarity during play.

  2. Choose Anti-Fog Lenses: One common problem with eyewear is fogging. In intense pickleball games, perspiration and sudden temperature changes can cause glasses to fog up, obscuring vision and increasing the risk of injury. Look for eyewear with anti-fog lenses to maintain clear vision throughout the game.

  3. Wear the Right Fit: Eyewear that doesn’t fit properly can slip, causing distractions and increasing the risk of eye injuries. Opt for glasses with adjustable nose pads and temple grips for a secure, comfortable fit, especially during fast-paced games.

  4. Consider Prescription Options: If you need vision correction, prescription eyewear for pickleball is a must. Our Prescription Pickleball Eyewear offers a variety of options for both prescription and non-prescription wearers.

Related Blogs to Help Protect Your Eyes

  1. Best Pickleball Eyewear for Outdoor Courts 2025 Buying Guide: A comprehensive guide to choosing the best eyewear for outdoor pickleball play. Discover which pickleball glasses offer the best UV protection and impact resistance for optimal safety.

  2. FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Pickleball Eyewear: An informative FAQ blog on why eyewear is essential for pickleball players, covering the key features to look for when purchasing pickleball sunglasses and prescription glasses.

Conclusion: Stay Safe and Play Smart

Eye injuries in pickleball are becoming more common as the sport grows in popularity. However, the risk can be significantly reduced by wearing the right pickleball eyewear. Whether you're playing indoors or outdoors, having the right pair of glasses with impact-resistant lenses and UV protection is essential for safeguarding your eyes.

Stay proactive by choosing quality prescription pickleball sunglasses or non-prescription eyewear that suits your playing conditions. Check out our full range of pickleball eyewear for the best options to enhance both safety and performance.

Back to blog