Snow goggles

Inuit snow goggles

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Inuit Snow goggles from Alaska. Made from carved wood, 1880-1890CE (top) and Caribou antler 1000-1800 CE (bottom)

Snow goggles are a type of protective eyewear traditionally used by the Inuit and other indigenous peoples of the Arctic regions to prevent snow blindness. Snow blindness is a painful condition caused by overexposure to ultraviolet light reflected from the surface of snow and ice.

History

The earliest snow goggles were made from materials such as driftwood, bone, antler, and ivory. These materials were carved to fit the face and had narrow slits to reduce the amount of light entering the eyes. This design helped to minimize the risk of snow blindness while still allowing the wearer to see.

Design

Traditional snow goggles feature a simple yet effective design. The narrow slits in the goggles limit the amount of light that reaches the eyes, reducing glare and preventing UV damage. Modern snow goggles have evolved to include advanced materials and technologies, such as polarized lenses, anti-fog coatings, and adjustable straps for a secure fit.

Modern Use

Today, snow goggles are used by a variety of people, including skiers, snowboarders, and mountaineers. Modern designs offer enhanced protection and comfort, making them an essential piece of equipment for anyone spending extended periods in snowy environments.

Related Pages

• Snow blindness
• Inuit
• Ultraviolet light
• Protective eyewear
• Skiing
• Snowboarding
• Mountaineering

See Also

• Sunglasses
• Goggles
• Eye protection