Types and selection of ski goggles

Any skier knows that the right equipment is an important part of a comfortable and effective downhill skiing workout. Each element of sports equipment performs a number of useful functions, without which riding will not bring true pleasure and benefit. Glasses (masks) are no exception!

How do I choose quality ski goggles? What types are there? Which manufacturer should you give preference to? You will receive answers to all these questions in this article.

Ski goggles are essential in all weather conditions as they perform several important functions:

• serve as protection from the bright and blinding rays of the sun;
• protect the skier's eyes from snow and small particles;
• protects against gusts of wind, which can lead to watery eyes, which can lead to a fall.

Taking into account the preferences of individual groups of skiers, several types of ski masks are produced, which differ in shape and size.

• Baby models - small, tight to the face. Due to their simple form, such glasses are not too expensive, but at the same time they fulfill all the functions assigned to them.

• Womens - products that differ from the usual ones in that they are narrower in the area of ​​the bridge of the nose. This design excludes the possibility of snow getting under the glasses.

• OTG Ski Goggles - produced for skiers who wear glasses in their daily life. They have extra space for regular glasses, which is why they are slightly convex.

• Rimless ski goggles - unisex sports model, gives an excellent wide-angle view of the track.

Ski goggles are divided into several types depending on the size.

1. Narrow is a convenient option for cross-country skiers. It is extremely uncomfortable to wear such models with a helmet, since there is a large distance between them, through which the wind blows.
2. Medium - suitable for almost everyone. It is much easier to choose a helmet for them.
3. Large - custom size with a wide field of view. Designed specifically for freestyle skiing and snowboarding.

In addition to the shape, the lenses can be of different colors, each of which has its own purpose:

• transparent - for training in the dark;
• yellow - for skiing in fog or cloudy weather;
• yellow-orange - universal, suitable for any weather conditions;
• pink - for training in bad weather;
• darkened - used on bright sunny days.

Any ski goggles, whether you buy them for racing or recreational riding, must be tried on before buying. Most models are available in a universal size, but each person has individual features of the face and head that need to be considered when choosing ski goggles.

Do not forget to take a helmet with you when buying to make sure they fit together, this is very important.

Today, a large number of popular brands, both domestic and foreign, produce high quality ski equipment items.

• Oakley. An American company that has been producing special equipment for skiing for many years, including glasses. The brand's products are distinguished by innovative design and continuous improvement of technical characteristics. Available models of goggles for skiers provide for the ability to change lenses, depending on the weather. The products are equipped with double spherical lenses and antifog coating, as well as a 3-layer fleece seal. Suitable for almost any helmet.

• Carrera. A versatile ski goggle model suitable for both beginner skiers and professional athletes. A large selection of brand products allows you to choose a comfortable mask for both adults and children. Polarized lenses are used in production. An adjustable buckle secures the glasses tightly to the head. To prevent the glasses from fogging up, they have a special ventilation system.

• Alpina. The German eyewear company has long won the trust of buyers for its high quality products. The lenses used in ski goggles have a high level of UV protection. The diamond coating used in the manufacture of lenses protects them from scratches and chips.

• Smith. An American brand that manufactures professional sports equipment. Perfectly protects the eyes from infrared rays and ultraviolet radiation. The shape and size of the frame allows you to choose a helmet without any problems. The lenses are equipped with a special anti-scratch coating. It is possible to change lenses.

• Dragon. An American brand that produces ski goggles for different categories of skiers. In production, a hypoallergenic fleece lining is used, the lenses have a special protective coating. Equipped with double cylindrical filters that provide a wide view while driving. The frame is made of durable polyurethane.

For skiing to be comfortable and enjoyable, you should purchase full equipment, including ski goggles. Here are some of the things to look out for when shopping for ski goggles.

1. Chasing a cheap price, you expose yourself to the risk of eye diseases, as these models use poor quality materials.
2. It is better to choose models equipped with two lenses, as they are more reliable and do not fog up during skiing.A good quality lens is made in the shape of a sphere, and it should be thicker in the center than on the sides.
3. A universal option for all weather conditions is polarized lenses.
4. The presence of an adjustable ventilation system to control moisture that accumulates inside. The glasses should fit snugly on the face, but not squeeze the bridge of the nose.
5. The optimal viewing angle is 120 degrees.
6. Products are produced in three types of frames - for children (for a small face), women (for a medium-sized face), universal. The best option is glasses in which the frame is thin and made of TPU.
7. Ski goggles should be fixed on the head with straps.
8. From the inside, the product should have a soft base so that during wearing it does not cause pain and discomfort.
9. Take your helmet with you when you buy to make sure the goggles are compatible with it.