Can you get prescription ski goggles?

Before you hit those slopes, investing in a pair of ski or snowboard goggles is an essential part of any successful ski trip. Goggles keep your eyes protected against harmful UV rays that can cause snow blindness and cold conditions that can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.

If you wear glasses you do not need to resort to wearing contact lenses – get prescription ski goggles instead.

Prescription ski goggles are the perfect way to enjoy a day on the slopes, particularly if you have vision requirements such as near or farsightedness.

Prescription lenses in ski goggles

There are two main ways that a prescription can be incorporated into goggles.

1. Lens inserts

These are a specialised lightweight lens which can be placed behind the ski goggles lens. They are more affordable and can usually be customised to any prescription.

If you are concerned that people will be able to see these inserts then don’t worry. The majority of snowboard and ski goggles have polarised or tinted lenses, which makes spotting the insert virtually impossible.

2. Prescription lenses

These can be really good if you are a regular skier who requires corrective lenses. Wearing goggles with a prescription lens removes the need for contact lenses or glasses and provides you with the ultimate in vision.

The lenses of goggles can be customised by an optician to include your prescription, but this does depend on your requirements, and it’s not always possible due to the curvature of your ski goggle frames.

Your optician will be able to advise you on the most suitable brands of goggles and the lens options available to you.

Can I wear contact lenses under ski goggles?

Yes, you can wear your contact lenses for skiing, but you should still wear goggles for protection.

The cold mountain air can cause dry eye symptoms to be exacerbated and so protecting your eyes with goggles can help you enjoy your skiing without worrying about your eyes.