Ski goggles for skiing are essential. The glare off the snow exposes skiers to glare and harsh UV rays. A day on the slopes can be very miserable without decent ski goggles especially in extreme weather conditions such as snow, sleet and heavy rain.

Ski goggles, however, provide protection for the face as well as for the eyes. Many ski goggles are large, covering most of the upper portion of the face. The lens area is intentionally large so you have a wide field of view and good peripheral vision.

Many ski goggle frames are designed with the use of softer, more flexible materials. Nylon, rubber and propionate materials are popular. These materials hold their shape and do not become brittle in the cold. Therefore ski goggles tend not to injure the face if you should fall while traveling at high speed. The majority of ski goggles are held in place on the head with a thick strap designed to make sure that the eye protection stays in place.

When looking for ski goggles insist on ultraviolet protection. It is beneficial to look for anti-fogging features such as double lenses, anti-fog coating and wide vents. As important is choosing the right lens tint; weather, light and activity will all affect your ski goggles performance.

Lens Options

If you have ever been skiing through the woods, you know it is important to see objects in the shadows. Many ski goggles have interchangeable lenses for use in varying conditions. Here are things to keep in mind regarding your lenses:

• Choose a mirrored lens on sunny days for solar and snow glare protection.
• Choose a gold-colored lens as an all-around versatile lens capable of providing contrast in most conditions.
• Choose a rose-colored lens for increased definition and contrast in low-light and flat-light situations.
• Choose a pale yellow lens for activities during low-light periods - dawn and dusk.
• Choose a clear lens for activities such as night skiing.
  

Buying Tips

1. Try on several pairs of goggles. Some brands have a tendency to fit certain head shapes better than others.
2. Check out the ventilation system of the goggles you're thinking about purchasing. The nemesis of goggles is fog, so you want an adequate ventilation system that allows air into the goggles.
3. Make sure the goggles fit your head snugly. Keep in mind that most days you'll be wearing a hat of some sort or a helmet.
4. Determine whether the lens is removable. Certain lens colors are better than others for different light and snow conditions.
5. Find out whether the goggles have a warranty, and what type it is.
6. Avoid purchasing goggles at a ski resort, as the markup can be considerable.
7. Early season swaps sometimes have the previous season's model at lower-than-expected prices.