When it comes to eye protection on the slopes you have two primary options – goggles or sunglasses. Besides simply looking cool, sports goggles and sunglasses can help protect your eyes from ultra-violet rays, snow, wind and other harmful elements you may encounter while on the mountain. However, when shopping for goggles or sunglasses, it’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages associated with each.
Ski Goggles
Many seasoned slope veterans opt for sports goggles, because of the numerous advantages they provide over sunglasses. One of the primary reasons skiers and snowboarders alike choose goggles is due to the fact that they cover a large portion of the face. This not only keeps your face warm, but also helps protect your eyes from wind, ice or any unforeseen objects such as a tree branch. Ski goggles also tend to have larger lenses which provide a greater field of vision over traditional sunglasses.
On the other hand, ski goggles also have some inherent disadvantages as well. Many ski goggles are cumbersome which can make them uncomfortable to wear. Larger ski goggles may also be incompatible with certain ski helmets too. Another common complaint about ski goggles is their tendency to fog up. However, you can avoid fogging problems by purchasing anti-fogging ski goggles with a preventative coating or ventilation system.
Sunglasses
Ski sunglasses are generally lighter and more comfortable to wear than goggles which can be beneficial when navigating down a mountain. It’s also much easier and often more affordable to find prescription lenses for sunglasses in comparison to winter sports goggles as well. In addition, sunglasses do not fog up as frequently as your basic goggles.
Unfortunately, there are also several disadvantages associated with sunglasses too. For example, sunglasses do not secure as tightly to your face as goggles do, leaving your eyes more exposed to wind, ice and any other hazards you may come across on the mountain. Sunglasses also tend to be more fragile than ski goggles due to their glass lenses. However, you can purchase glasses with polycarbonate lenses to negate this risk. Additionally, we recommend polarized sunglasses as they prevent sun glare which can impair vision on the slopes!
Whether you have decided to go with sport sunglasses or goggles, they will most likely not be the most expensive gear you buy, but they may turn out to be one of the most important. Before your next trip, stop by your local ski shop and pick up a pair of high quality sunglasses or winter sports goggles, your eyes will thank you for it.