Is eye protection required in racquetball?
Officials' detail · The game · 2 of 2The racquet is at most 22 in long and its cord must be on the wrist throughout play and warm-up. The ball is 2 1/4 in across and must be IRF-endorsed; the players agree on at least two balls before a match. Racquet-sport eyewear must be worn properly in play and warm-up: a first lapse is a referee technical, a second disqualification.
How it works
- Racquet: 22 in at most.
- Wrist cord: always on.
- Ball: 2 1/4 in, IRF.
- Balls: two agreed.
- Eyewear: compulsory.
- First lapse: referee technical.
- Second: disqualification.
- Losing eyewear mid-rally: avoidable hinder.
The glossary has the racquet, the ball, the ball selection, the eyewear, the avoidable hinder and the referee technical.
Tricky cases
My eyewear falls off in a rally. Result?
An avoidable hinder; I lose the rally.
Can the ball be changed mid-match?
Yes, if both sides ask or the referee decides.
Can I play without the wrist cord?
No. A return without it is lost.
Can a wheelchair racquet be longer?
No, but a bumper guard may be added within 22 in.
Why the rule exists
A hard ball in a closed room can injure an eye, so eyewear is compulsory.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Racquet | 22 in | L 2.4 |
| Eyewear | Compulsory | L 2.5 |
| Ball | IRF | L 2.2 |
From the rule book
International Racquetball Federation (IRF), Official Rules of Racquetball (2024-2026), Rules 2.2 to 2.5 and 3.14. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: IRF Official Rules 2024-2026.