Sports Eye Safety Month: Protect Your Vision While You Play
September is Sports Eye Safety Month, a timely reminder that the right equipment does more than improve your game. It helps protect the vision you rely on every day.
Whether you play pickleball after work, join a weekend basketball league, or spend the season on the ice, your eyes are exposed to fast-moving balls, racquets, elbows, pucks, and unexpected falls. Proper protective eyewear can help reduce the risk of sports-related eye injuries.
Pickleball Is Fun. Eye Protection Still Matters.
Pickleball's popularity has soared, and so have related eye injuries. In 2024, emergency departments reported more than 1,200 pickleball-related eye injuries. Being struck by the ball accounted for 43% of reported injuries, while falls accounted for 28% and paddle strikes for 12%.
The risk is especially important to consider for players 50 and older, who had a 39% higher risk of eye injury than younger players. These are not always minor injuries. Reports have included orbital fractures, retinal detachments, and serious trauma to the eye itself.
The takeaway is simple: protective eyewear is a small addition that can make a meaningful difference.
Your Sports Eyewear Gear Check
Everyday eyeglasses and sunglasses are not designed to handle the impact and movement of sports. When choosing eyewear for pickleball or another active sport, look for a secure fit, comfortable coverage, and lenses appropriate for your activity.
Pickleball, tennis, racquetball, and squash: Close-fitting eyewear can help shield your eyes from balls and racquets.
Basketball: Sports goggles can provide a more secure option during quick, close-contact play.
Hockey and lacrosse: A properly fitted helmet and face protection are essential, and prescription options should fit safely with your gear.
Cycling and outdoor sports: Wraparound frames can help protect against wind, debris, insects, and UV exposure.
If you wear a prescription, it is especially important to choose eyewear made for movement and impact rather than relying on your everyday frames.
Pickleball Eyewear at Artisan Optical
At Artisan Optical, we carry several brands that can support your time on the court.
Wiley X is a strong option to explore when impact protection and a secure, active fit are your priority. For players looking for protective sports eyewear, this is the brand to ask about first.
Maui Jim is great for outdoor pickleball players who want to reduce glare and see the ball and court more comfortably in bright conditions.
Zeal Optics is an outdoor-focused option for players who want lightweight comfort and sun protection during daytime games.
Our opticians can help determine which option is appropriate for your prescription, fit, and protection needs.
Find Protection That Fits Your Game
Protective eyewear should feel comfortable enough that you will actually wear it. At Artisan Optical, we can help you explore Wiley X, Maui Jim, Zeal Optics, and other prescription or non-prescription options that fit your sport, your face, and your personal style.
Don’t mask your individuality. Reveal it, on and off the court.
Stop by Artisan Optical to find the right eyewear for your next season, match, or pickleball game.
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