Being well-equipped before hitting the slopes is essential, and it’s not just about choosing skis or boots. Choosing the right ski goggles is important for maintaining a clear view of your surroundings, ensuring safe skiing, and enjoying maximum comfort. Here are Sport 2000’s tips for picking the right ski goggles!
Why choose goggles instead of glasses?
A few years ago, skiers rarely wore goggles, most opting for sunglasses. However, the trend has shifted. While sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays—particularly strong in the mountains—they offer limited protection in other conditions.
Unlike standard glasses, ski goggles protect against UV rays, glare, as well as cold, snow, wind, and even rain. Even if the morning starts sunny, weather can change quickly, so it’s important to be prepared.
Ski goggles also cover more of the face, providing protection against debris such as small rocks or tree branches. In collisions with other skiers, goggles help prevent eye injuries caused by ski poles or skis.
Which lens type should I choose?
Choosing goggles involves selecting the lens type, which can be yellow, pink, orange, grey, brown, mirrored, or photochromic, and considering the level of protection. How do you choose?
First, note that lens color does not affect UV protection. All ski goggles are EN 174 certified, ensuring 100% UV protection. However, lenses fall into categories based on light transmission.
To choose your goggles, consider the weather. Category 3 goggles are ideal for sunny days, letting through only 8–18% of light. For low visibility or foggy conditions, Category 2 goggles are better, transmitting 18–43% of light. Photochromic lenses adapt to UV intensity, offering optimal visibility in all conditions.
Lens color also affects perception: warm tints (orange, yellow, pink, red) enhance terrain relief, brown lenses reduce glare in bright conditions, and mirrored lenses further minimize brightness. Trying different lenses is the best way to find what feels most comfortable.
How do I choose the right size?
Properly fitting goggles are essential for vision, stability, and comfort. First, choose based on category: men, women, or children. If your face is narrower or wider than average, some models are designed accordingly.
Always try on goggles before purchasing and adjust the strap for a snug, comfortable fit.
Should I choose goggles with special technologies?
Ski gear brands regularly innovate to improve performance and comfort. For frequent skiers or those seeking maximum comfort, consider goggles with:
- Interchangeable lenses to adapt to changing light conditions;
- Anti-fog treatment with double-layer lenses for clear vision all day;
- Technologies that enhance visual perception, improving contrast, intensifying natural colors, and better defining terrain relief.
More features generally mean a higher price. Mid-range goggles typically cost €25–60 for children, and €50–100 for adults.
What about prescription glasses?
If you wear glasses, look for OTG (Over The Glass) goggles. Many brands (Oakley, Julbo, Cairn, etc.) offer OTG goggles with cutouts in the foam near the temples to accommodate glasses arms, allowing you to wear your glasses comfortably under your goggles.
For additional winter sports gear guidance, see our other guides: ski helmets, snowboards, children’s ski boots, and more.