Why Eye Protection is Essential for Pickleball Players
Pickleball has evolved rapidly over the years, becoming a faster, more competitive sport thanks to advancements in paddle technology and player skill. As paddles have improved, they generate more power, spin, and speed, increasing the velocity of the ball and the risk of injury. One of the most vulnerable areas? Your eyes.
The Real Dangers of Eye Injuries in Pickleball
While pickleball is often seen as a low-impact sport, the reality is that eye injuries are becoming more common. A direct hit to the eye from a fast-moving ball can cause corneal abrasions, fractures, or even permanent vision loss.
Some players have learned this lesson the hard way:
Michelle Pfeiffer after her pickleball black eye incident
Genie Bouchard, a professional tennis player, suffered a scratched cornea while playing pickleball, requiring medical attention. She later posted about her injury, reminding fellow players to be cautious.
Michelle Pfeiffer, the famous actress, shared an image of her black eye from a pickleball accident, sparking discussions about the importance of protective eyewear.
Even recreational players are speaking out:
“Three weeks ago, a ball deflected off the top of my paddle at the NVZ line and went straight into my eye. I had no time to react… I had a major cornea abrasion... I wear goggles all the time when playing now. It’s not worth the risk.” - A Reddit user
Why the Game’s Evolution Makes Eye Protection More Important
As paddle technology advances, players can hit with more speed and spin, increasing the chances of an unexpected high-velocity shot. According to ophthalmologist Dr. Raj Maturi, a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology:
“A ball directed to the eye can come faster than you have time to reflexively react to, causing significant vision impairment.”
Enhancing Visibility on the Court
Beyond protection, eyewear can also improve visibility, particularly for outdoor players. Many sports lenses are designed to:
Reduce glare – Ideal for bright, sunny days.
Enhance contrast – Helps track the ball better against different backgrounds.
Improve depth perception – Increases reaction time.
Choosing the Right Eye Protection
Experts recommend polycarbonate safety goggles with front and side coverage for maximum protection. These are lightweight, impact-resistant, and offer UV protection for outdoor play.
Final Thoughts
With pickleball getting faster and more intense, the risk of eye injuries is real. No matter your skill level, wearing proper eye protection is a simple way to avoid serious, potentially life-changing injuries. As Dr. Maturi emphasizes:
“The ideal protection would be polycarbonate safety goggles, which have front and side coverage.”
Before you step onto the court, consider grabbing a solid pair of protective eyewear – it might just save your vision. Your eyes will thank you!
Stay Tuned!
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be diving deeper into pickleball eyewear, including:
The best features to look for
The benefits of different lens types
Where to buy the best protective gear.
Keep an eye out for our upcoming articles!
