Staying cool on the slopes – with ski goggles

As ski fans prepare for fun on the slopes in the forthcoming season, they should be sure to include ski goggles as an essential item of basic safety equipment for any winter sports enthusiast. The sports product experts at TÜV SÜD have tips on choosing the right goggles and on product care. TÜV SÜD tips for purchasers


A single pair of goggles can offer many types of protection. Goggles protect the wearer from glare and harsh UV rays. They also protect the eyes from the effects of the weather – from snow to rain or sleet – and keep wind and sun away from the sensitive conjunctiva of the eye. A well-fitting pair of goggles can also protect against eye injuries from falls.


It's all about the lenses. In high-quality ski goggles, they are usually made from shatterproof and impact-resistant polycarbonate, a type of plastic which ensures clear, distortion-free vision. To ensure as wide a field of vision as possible, the lenses generally extend beyond the eye and are not divided into two separate lenses like 'normal' glasses. The TÜV SÜD pros advise that double lenses help to reduce moisture build-up behind the goggles, and allow moisture to dissipate more easily.


On the ski slopes, glorious sunshine can be torture for the eyes. Tinted lenses protect against glare and optimize visibility. Dark brown or dark grey lenses are the most effective in extremely bright sunlight. There are four levels of protective filter. In twilight, snow or fog, vision is improved by yellow or reddish-orange tinted lenses. TÜV SÜD advises purchasers to consult a specialist retailer for detailed information on protective filters, lens tints and UV protection in ski goggles.


But what about people who have to wear prescription glasses every day? On no account should they hit the slopes without their 'visual aids', warn the TÜV SÜD experts. There are a number of options they can explore, such as ski goggles with clips which take optical prescription inserts. If the wearer's visual acuity changes, only the clip needs to be replaced. In another solution known as a shield, the prescription lenses themselves are integrated into the goggle frame. Finally, 'over-the-glass' goggles are designed to be worn over normal glasses. A popular alternative is to resort to contact lenses while skiing, which enable normal sports goggles to be worn.


Sunshine is not the only source of eye strain – wind can also cause problems. For this reason, goggles should fit as closely as possible around the eye. To prevent fogging, an effective ventilation system is essential. Continuous optimum flow of air is achieved either by ventilation slits or by a battery-operated electric fan – a high-tech alternative particularly popular with extreme sports enthusiasts. A further precaution against fogging is an anti-fog coating on the inside of the lens. However, only high-quality models offer a long lifespan – cheaper versions simply wash off over time.


To ensure wearing comfort on the slopes and effective protection if you take a tumble, goggles frames must be flexible and adjustable. Flexible plastic is the best material; it is lightweight and does not become cold or brittle, even in low temperatures.


The main safety priority for goggles is the correct fit. Goggles fit correctly when they sit comfortably without slipping or chafing. The frame should fit closely around the head. Fit and comfort can be optimized by choosing goggles with a well-fitting stretch head strap and padding at all points where the goggles are in contact with the skin; this padding should be of soft, elastic material that is comfortable to wear. The head strap should be designed for combination with a helmet. TÜV SÜD advises taking the helmet along when you buy your goggles and spending plenty of time in trying on different goggle styles.


Purchasers of ski goggles can look for the GS (Tested Safety) mark or the TÜV SÜD octagon quality mark as guidance in their product choice. The sports product experts test attributes including stability, material and usability.


TÜV SÜD tips for care

• If snow gets into the goggles, simply tap it out and dry the inside of the lens by dabbing with an eyewear care cloth. Do not rub the lens, as this may damage (scratch) the anti-fog coating or the glass.
• Always store and transport the goggles in the case supplied, to ensure long-term satisfaction with your purchase.
• Goggles lenses that have cracked or chipped as the result of a fall can be replaced – a specialist retailer is the best place to ask.