Ski Goggles: Clear Vision for Skimming the Slopes
Ski Goggles: Clear Vision for Skimming the Slopes
>>> Optimized goggles for a range of weather conditions >>> Peripheral protection against wind, sun and glare >>> Padded frame to cushion against falls
Munich. Winter sports holidays are a must for many people. To ensure that nothing stands in the way of successful skiing pleasure, skiers should emphasize protection when selecting equipment. High-quality ski goggles are a top priority for the slopes. TÜV Product Service, TÜV SÜD Group, offers helpful tips for their selection and use.
Protection from UV rays
Suitable ski goggles are primarily designed to protect the eyes from harmful UV rays with wavelengths of 280 to 380 nanometers Filter protection up to 380 nanometers is a requirement of antisun glass - good goggles generally offer protection up to 400 nanometers.
Tinted lenses improve vision in bright sunlight. Dark brown or dark grey lenses reduce light leaks and are thus recommended for ultra-bright, high-glare environments. A mirrored coating further improves their effect. Reddish-orange or blue-tinted lenses are useful when visibility is poor, improving contrast and enhancing contours on the slope. TÜV SÜDs tip: specialist retailers or opticians should be able to supply precise information about UV protection and tinted lenses.
Protection from wind and safety in accidents
In addition to sun glare, wind is also an extreme source of stress, so that goggles should wrap as widely around the eyes as possible. But the better goggles protect against wind, the more important a well-functioning ventilation system becomes if fogging is to be avoided.
Even the best skier takes a tumble now and then. Quality goggles need a flexible, adjustable frame to avoid injuries in case of falls. Dont forget that the frame must be impervious to cold; plastic goggles are flexible and do not become cold or brittle even at low temperatures.
High-quality ski goggles with splinter- and shatterproof lenses, protect the eyes against minor shocks.
Broad headbands offer snug fit
Even the best goggles are unsuitable if they do not fit properly. Searching for the right goggles takes time; go to a specialist retailer and make sure you try several models. Other key factors to look for before making your decision are a broad field of vision and padding of soft, elastic material that is comfortable to wear. The style of headband is critical to a snug fit. It should be of stretch material, wide enough and adjustable. To buy with complete confidence, look for the GS seal or the TÜV Product Service blue octagon. Products featuring these marks have undergone thorough testing for aspects including stability, material properties or serviceability.
Flexible insert for prescription lenses
By the way, spectacle or contact lens wearers should never forego eye protection when skiing. Some ski goggles have clips in which prescription inserts can be fixed. Advantage: if your eyesight changes, you need only replace the insert. Another alternative is the shield design, incorporating prescription strength lenses. Some goggles are also designed to be worn over normal spectacles. TÜV Product Service recommends that skiers with impaired vision seek advice from specialist retailers or opticians about the range of options available.
Editor: Dr. Thomas Oberst
