Do You Need Goggles To Snowboard? 3 Risks To Consider!

by Fraser
Updated:

Snowboarding is undoubtedly the best way to experience the winter season.

But considering the how risky it can be, you may have some questions about safety gear. For example, do you need goggles to snowboard?

You need goggles to snowboard as they protect your eyes from snow, cold, debris and wind. Snowboarding also involves high speeds and so maximum visibility is vital. Sunglasses are less-favorable as they offer incomplete protection and fall off during tricks or falls.

You’d better keep reading to find out why goggles are essential and which one’s are right for you.

Alternatively, head to this season’s best value snowboard goggles

do you need goggles to snowboard?

Why Do You Need Ski Goggles?

You need ski goggles while snowboarding as they provide eye protection. Goggles protect your eyes from damage or irritation from wind, snow, ice and tree branches!

Even on a clear day, snowboarding at high speeds will cause your eyes to water. This significantly impairs your visibility.

For many riders, goggles are also a style statement and help you to look the part.

If you’re unclear why you can’t just wear sunglasses, check out the ski goggles vs sunglasses debate. 

Here’s a couple of other reasons that you need goggles to snowboard:

1. Goggles Can Prevent Snow Blindness!

One of the most common risks of not wearing snow goggles is snow blindness. Snow blindness is caused by overexposure to UV light and can cause temporary or permanent damage to your eyesight.

The best way to avoid this risk is to wear a good pair of goggles with UV protection and anti-fog features.

2. They Protect Your Face From Frostbite!

Frostbite on your face and eyelids does not sound like a good time! Frostbite essentially causes tissue damage, leading to long-term health problems. Goggles increase the circulation to your nose, eyelids and cheeks – all areas particularly susceptible to frostbite!

This is another reason you need to wear goggles while snowboarding!

3. They (Mostly) Stay Strapped To Your Face!

Unlike sunglasses, goggles tend to stay strapped down. This avoids an awkward hike underneath the lift looking for lost objects/glasses.

Of course, in the event of a yard sale even the strongest of goggles don’t stand a chance. But they’ll try much harder than an expensive of sunglasses!

Are Ski Goggles Necessary for Beginners?

I get this question all the time.

“I’m a beginner, should I buy ski goggles?” 

After all, Goggles can be quite an investment, particularly if you don’t know whether you’ll stick to the sport.

So are ski goggles necessary for beginners?

Ski goggles are definitely necessary for beginners. Beginners are more likely to fall, resulting in snow in their eyes and face. Ski goggles protect your eyes from debris and your eyelashes from freezing in the snow. They also protect against the sun, wind and even ski poles.

Am I saying you need to rush out and buy an expensive pair of Oakley’s?

Absolutely not!

There are plenty of solid entry-level goggles to start out with. 

Note: The above advice applies to both skiers and snowboarders. 

How To Choose The Best Goggles For Snowboarding

Goggles come in all shapes, sizes and materials. 

Research them online (which you’re doing right now) before going into a store or ordering them. 

Try to choose the right goggles for your face, not just the ones that are most stylish.

Your goggles need to be in the right position on your face to be comfortable and prevent fog. This also provides the best protection from sun and wind damage. If your goggles are too loose, they also won’t stay on if you turn your head, bend down or backflip! 

Some pointers:

  • A tight seam reduces fogging. 
  • Make sure your nose fits comfortably. 
  • If you wear a helmet, always test them together. 
  • Check the lenses are the right tint for the conditions you’ll be riding in. 
  • Gaps around your cheeks are the enemy!

The Good News?

The higher end goggle technology has gradually trickled down over the years. This means that even the cheapest goggles tend to do a pretty good job.

Head to our snowboard goggle reviews page if you need inspiration on which pairs to buy.  

Summary

Some people think they don’t need goggles while snowboarding. 

These people must be stopped!

Snowboarding is a risky sport that requires goggles for eye protection. 

Goggles are necessary for snowboarding. They protect our eyes from dust, snow, and the sun. They also help with fogging and make it easier to see.

Beyond everything else, you’ll also just have more fun if you’re not constantly worrying about clinging onto your sunglasses or wiping your sad, watery eyes.

Now that we’ve cleared that up, have you ever considered snowboarding or skiing at night? Let’s discuss whether goggles are needed for night skiing.

Alternatively, if you are a larger nosed gentleman such as myself, here are the best ski goggles for big noses. Enjoy! 

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