Why Eye Protection in Pickleball Isn’t Optional — and How to Choose the Right Lens
Best lenses for Outdoor Pickleball

Why Eye Protection in Pickleball Isn’t Optional — and How to Choose the Right Lens

Discover DINK™ Pickleball Eyewear at I-Topian Optical Fort Myers. Custom lenses for clarity, comfort, and protection — play sharper and protect your vision.

🏓 Why Eye Protection in Pickleball Isn’t Optional — and How to Choose the Right Lens

Part of the I-Topian Optical Lifestyle Lens Series

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America — and it’s bringing with it a rapid rise in eye injuries. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), even recreational matches can cause serious ocular trauma — from corneal abrasions to retinal tears — when a plastic ball or paddle strikes the eye.

“Pickleball does not require players to wear protective eyewear. But eye protection may reduce the risk of injury.”
— American Academy of Ophthalmology

On social forums like Reddit’s r/Pickleball, players share dozens of real-world cautionary tales:

“I’ve been hit in the eye twice — now I never play without protective glasses.”
“After seeing a friend need laser surgery, I bought eyewear the next day.”

Even the American Optometric Association is calling attention to this issue on LinkedIn, urging optometrists to educate players about impact-resistant eyewear.

⚡ Reaction Time = Competitive Advantage

Studies show that enhanced visual contrast can reduce reaction time by up to 100 milliseconds — a 5-foot advantage at 30 mph. That’s why proper lens selection isn’t just about protection — it’s about performance.

  • Outdoor Green Lens — Maximum glare reduction and contrast for bright sunlight.
  • Indoor/Outdoor Green Lens — Balanced tint for mixed light conditions.
  • Natural Lens — Ideal for indoor or night play; filters harsh reflections while maintaining true color.

All DINK™ ColorBoost™ lenses meet or exceed ANSI impact-resistance standards and deliver crystal-clear optics for precise ball tracking, reduced glare, and enhanced depth perception.

👁️ What the Experts Say

  • Harvard Health: “Most injuries are preventable with eyewear designed for impact and glare reduction.”
  • Ophthalmology Times: Older players are more vulnerable due to slower reaction times.
  • LinkedIn / AOA: Eye protection should be discussed with every active patient playing pickleball.

🎾 Protect Your Vision. Elevate Your Game.

At I-Topian Optical, we’ve partnered with DINK Eyewear to design lenses that protect and perform. Try the full DINK ColorBoost collection in person and discover how the right lens can transform your play.

References:
1. AAO – Eye Protection When Playing Pickleball
2. Harvard Health – Protect Your Eyes When Playing Pickleball
3. Ophthalmology Times – Injury Rates on the Rise
4. Reddit – Eye Protection Cautionary Tale
5. LinkedIn / AOA – Eye Injury Awareness Post