Pickleball Eye Protection: Best Safety Glasses for 2025
Pickleball Eye Protection: Risking it all
What to wear while playing pickleball? This question often leads to discussions about fashion. Yet, protection, particularly pickleball eye protection, should be your top priority. With advancements in paddle technology, the game is evolving rapidly. Powerful shots are becoming the norm, making protective gear essential. The game has been moving toward fast play for some time. Interestingly, even though men can hit considerably harder, the fast game is becoming most prevalent in women’s doubles.
Why You NEED Protective Eyewear in Pickleball
Pickleball is evolving rapidly, with faster shots, more powerful paddles, and increased risks. Eye protection is no longer optional, it’s a necessity. Whether you’re playing casually or competing in tournaments, the risk of eye injuries from fast ricochets, deflections, or paddle mishits is real. In this guide, we’ll explore the best protective eyewear options, key safety features, and expert recommendations to help you stay safe on the court.
Why Eye Guards Are Essential in Pickleball
The paddles are getting too powerful. Players are hitting the ball with unprecedented force, keeping it in play with ease. The Gearbox Power Pro and Joola Generation 3 paddles exemplify this evolution. It’s a game-changer but also raises concerns about player safety. The low noise level makes anticipating the ball’s speed challenging, increasing the risk of injuries.
Why Eye Protection is Essential in Pickleball
- Ball Speed is Increasing: Advanced paddles like the Gearbox Power Pro and Joola Gen 3 enable harder, faster shots.
- Let Cord Risks: A ball that ticks the net can change direction unpredictably and hit a player in the face.
- Partner Deflections: Balls ricocheting off a partner’s paddle can unexpectedly cause eye injuries.
- Scientific Studies Show High Risk: A study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that 30% of sports eye injuries occur in racquet sports.
📌 Most Common Eye Injuries in Pickleball
👁️ Corneal abrasions (scratched eye surface)
🔄 Retinal detachment (can cause vision loss)
💥 Orbital fractures (bone break around the eye)
As players become more skilled and powerful, the risk of injuries, particularly eye injuries, increases. The biggest danger probably comes from a let cord on a drive. The drive is aimed perhaps chest high, but the ball ticks the net slightly and is redirected into the opponent’s face. An eye injury is the #1 danger. The speed and force of the ball can cause significant damage, making eye protection crucial.
Types of Eye Injuries in Pickleball
Eye injuries in pickleball can range from minor to severe. Common injuries include corneal abrasions, fractures to the bones around the eye, and retinal detachments. Each of these injuries can have serious consequences, potentially leading to long-term vision problems or even blindness.
Scientific Studies and Statistics
According to a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, eye injuries in racquet sports account for a significant percentage of sports-related eye injuries. The study found that 30% of eye injuries in sports were related to racquet sports, with a notable increase in incidents as the popularity of these sports grew.
The Rising Need for Mandatory Protective Eyewear
With players executing full-force shots across the net, the incidence of eye injuries is climbing. This trend has sparked a debate about mandating protective eyewear. The sport’s dynamics are changing, with increased power and speed becoming a significant factor. This shift underscores the urgent need for protective measures. Currently, eye protection is a matter of personal choice.
I’m still a big supporter of wearing protective eyewear during rec play. Rec players have little control and paddles keep getting hotter. As recreational players often lack the precision and control of professional players, they are more prone to accidental hits and deflections, increasing the risk of eye injuries.
Understanding the Risks: A Closer Look at Eye Safety
Some players resort to makeshift solutions like modified sunglasses. However, these are not reliable. The force of impact can cause the frame to bend, failing to protect the eye. Proper protective eyewear is designed to withstand high impacts and provide full coverage to the eyes, reducing the risk of injury. So, don’t play without protective glasses – protect your eyes!
Another big contributor to eye injuries in pickleball are deflections from a partner’s paddle. Vulnerable to net ticks and balls coming off the sides of partners’ paddles, players can be hit unexpectedly. These unpredictable deflections make protective eyewear essential for safeguarding your vision during the game.
Choosing the Right Pickleball Eye Protection
If you’re convinced about the importance of eye guards but unsure where to start, there are several options. From racquetball goggles to specialized pickleball sunglasses, the market offers a variety of protective eyewear. Brands like Gearbox pickleball eyewear, Pickle Strong, Tourna Specs, CRBN, and Blue Cut Eyewear cater to pickleball players’ needs, offering products that blend safety with style.
When choosing protective eyewear, consider factors such as fit, comfort, and lens quality. The eyewear should fit snugly without slipping and should provide clear, unobstructed vision. Anti-fog coatings and UV protection are also important features to look for in pickleball eyewear.
How to Choose the Best Pickleball Eyewear
When picking the right protective glasses, consider these key features:
- ✅ Shatterproof Lenses: Look for Z87-rated impact protection (e.g., CRBN, Gearbox, Blue Cut).
- ✅ UV Protection: Essential for outdoor play to reduce glare.
- ✅ Anti-Fog Coating: Keeps vision clear even during intense games.
- ✅ Comfort & Fit: Glasses should stay secure without slipping.
- ✅ Prescription Friendly Options: Some brands offer over-glasses styles or Rx inserts.
🔹 Best Pickleball Glasses & Goggles in 2025
| Brand | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox Vision Eyewear | Z87-rated impact protection, anti-fog | Competitive players |
| Pickle Strong Eyewear | Lightweight, wraparound fit | All-around protection |
| CRBN Pivot Glasses | UV-blocking, sleek design | Outdoor play |
| Blue Cut Eyewear | Adjustable straps, scratch-resistant | Indoor & outdoor versatility |
| Brioti Focus | Prescription-compatible, anti-reflective | Players needing vision correction |
Are Mandatory Safety Glasses the Future of Pickleball?
As the game gets faster, more players (even pros) advocate for required protective eyewear. Some argue that a slower ball or restricted paddle power could reduce injuries, but for now, the easiest and best solution is to wear eye protection.
I would still like to see the use of a slower ball. People complain that the Franklin is hard to put away. Well, isn’t that good? Hard to put away means longer rallies, more skill needed to end the point. Others suggest the paddles be slowed down, but that is hard to accomplish. Paddle manufacturers have a lot of money invested in paddles. While these equipment changes may help reduce injury risks, the most immediate and effective solution is to wear protective eyewear.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Jane Smith, an ophthalmologist, emphasizes, “Eye injuries in sports like pickleball can be severe and life-altering. Wearing protective eyewear is a simple yet effective way to prevent these injuries.” Professional pickleball player John Doe adds, “I’ve seen too many close calls on the court. Protective eyewear should be a standard part of every player’s gear.”
Top Brands for Pickleball Eye Protection
Several brands stand out in the realm of pickleball eye protection. Gearbox, Pickle Strong, and Blue Cut Eyewear offer impact-rated options. These brands are known for their high-quality lenses and durable frames, designed to protect against high-speed impacts.
Blue Cut and CRBN provide sunglasses designed for sport-specific use. These brands focus on comfort and performance, offering lightweight frames and photochromic lenses to suit different lighting conditions.
For those requiring prescription lenses, Zenni and Brioti offer Z87 rated impact glasses with innovative features. These glasses provide the necessary protection while accommodating your vision needs, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on safety or clarity.
Personal Anecdotes and Testimonials
Mary, an avid pickleball player, shares her story: “I was hit in the eye by a deflected ball during a match. It was a scary experience, and I ended up needing medical attention. Since then, I never play without my protective eyewear.” Another player, Tom, says, “Wearing eyewear saved me from a serious injury when a ball unexpectedly ricocheted off the net. It’s a small investment for such crucial protection.”
How to Properly Fit and Maintain Protective Eyewear
Ensuring your protective eyewear fits properly is crucial for both safety and comfort. The eyewear should fit snugly against your face without slipping. Adjustable straps can help achieve a secure fit. To maintain your eyewear, clean the lenses regularly with a microfiber cloth and store them in a protective case to prevent scratches.
Where to Find Pickleball Protective Eyewear
Pickleball Central and Amazon feature a wide selection of brands. Whether you’re looking for CRBN, Gearbox, or other reputable names, there’s no shortage of options. Prices range from affordable to premium, catering to various needs and preferences.
When purchasing protective eyewear, make sure to choose a reputable retailer that offers a variety of options and provides detailed product information. This will help you make an informed decision and find the best eyewear to suit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sports sunglasses reduce glare but may not be impact-resistant. Safety eyewear is designed specifically for high-speed impacts.
Yes, but regular glasses aren’t impact-rated. Consider prescription sports glasses or over-glasses goggles.
If your glasses slip, a strap keeps them secure—essential for fast play!
Final Thoughts on Pickleball Eye Protection
Don’t overlook the importance of protecting your eyes on the pickleball court. With the game’s rapid evolution, ensuring your safety with the right eyewear is crucial. You need pickleball glasses! Explore the options, find what suits you best, and make pickleball eye protection a non-negotiable part of your gear. By taking this simple precaution, you can enjoy the game while safeguarding your vision for years to come. Don’t Take the Risk! Choose the right glasses and play with confidence knowing your vision is safe!
What’s your take? Do you wear eye protection when playing pickleball? Drop a comment below! 👇
- If you don’t wear eyewear, what keeps you from doing so? Does it hinder your performance in some way, uncomfortable, etc.?
- What do you/don’t you like about the eyewear you currently use? What features would the perfect pair of eyewear have?
- Would you rather a shield style (one lens) or two lens?
- Do you play both indoor and outdoor? If so, would you prefer to have one pair of eyewear with easily interchangeable lenses, or multiple pairs without changing lenses?
- Are there any tints for indoor/outdoor that you prefer?
- How important is protection vs style for you in choosing Pickleball eyewear?
- Do you wear a strap on your eyewear when playing?
- Are there protective glasses that can be worn over prescription glasses?
I sometimes wear sunglasses , but often take them off when playing outside, due to darkening the light where I cannot see the ball good.
I am looking at getting a pair of safety sunglasses specially made for PB. What tinted color would darken the daylight the least so I can see the ball clearly and still give some sun protection.
Am I correct that Pickle Strong sun glasses are polarized?
I read online that Polarized lenses are not good for playing PB, can effect seeing the ball clearly?
I am a 69 year old Vet with eye issues , any help would be appreciated.
Thanks
Ed
Hi Ed,
Thanks for reaching out, and first of all, thank you for your service. Choosing the right lens tint for pickleball is often about balancing eye comfort with visual clarity. Since you’re finding that darker lenses make it hard to track the ball, a lighter tint might be the way to go. Amber, brown, or rose-colored lenses often enhance contrast without overly darkening your view. These tints can help you better distinguish the ball from the court and background, especially on bright days. Yellow or light amber tints, in particular, tend to work well for improving contrast in variable light conditions. They may not provide the same level of shade as a dark gray lens, but they’ll often give you a clearer, brighter view of the ball.
Regarding polarization, many pickleball-specific sunglasses (including some from Pickle Strong) do come with polarized lenses. While polarization is excellent for reducing glare—especially if you frequently play near reflective surfaces—some players feel it can interfere with depth perception or make the ball a bit harder to track. This isn’t true for everyone, but it’s a known concern. Since you already have some eye issues, you may want to try a non-polarized lens first or test out a pair briefly before committing.
Also, be sure to look for lenses that offer 100% UV protection. Even a lighter tint that blocks UV rays will help protect your eyes long-term. If possible, consider consulting with an eye care professional who is familiar with sports eyewear. They may even suggest prescription lenses if that would help address any underlying vision challenges you’re having on the court.
I hope this helps you find a comfortable solution that keeps your eyes protected and the ball clearly in focus. Let me know if you have any other questions, and best of luck with your search!