For anyone who has stepped on a racquetball court and thought to himself that goggles weren't necessary, that idea almost always disappears within the first hour on the court. The game calls for an aggressive attitude, where a player must establish position in the enclosed court and swing out on the ball. When that happens and the opponent is also trying to establish position on the court, racquet-to-face contact is quite likely. As a result, wearing protective goggles is an absolute necessity. Your eyes need excellent protection and though the goggle may be somewhat uncomfortable when they go on for the first time, it is well worth the protection they provide.
What to Look for
Racquetball players are looking for protection first and foremost. They need to be made of unbreakable plastic and they should also be adjustable. As an hour or two of racquetball progresses, players will find that they may need to make their nose pieces a little tighter because perspiration is a lubricant that does not allow the protective goggles to sit securely. The same goes with the ear pieces; the goggles may fit beautifully at the start of the match but a player almost always has to make and adjustment or series of adjustments as the game goes on.
Common Pitfalls
Racquetball goggles can grow uncomfortable over the course of a long match because of the added weight on the face. This takes some getting used to. The other issue is that the lenses in the goggles take a consistent beating and scratches can result. Scratch-proof lenses are available, but purchasing them requires a financial commitment. Most goggles are in the $15-25 range, but scratch-proof lenses can send the cost of the goggles in the $70-80 range. Once a racquetball match is over, the eyewear should be kept in a protective holder to avoid breakage or scratches.
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