Skiing is one of the most popular winter recreational sports, but it can be dangerous without the right equipment. Dangers range from falls to collisions, and even small objects such as tree branches can cause damage if you're not careful. Be prepared for anything on the slope, including wearing a suitable ski helmet and a pair of ski goggles.
Purpose of a Ski Helmet
The primary purpose of a ski helmet is to protect your head from abrasions and impacts. For example, the hard shell of a ski helmet protects your head against sharp objects or tree branches that can rip open the skin, while the interior padding helps reduce the impact of collisions and falls, helping protect your brain and skull bones. The U.S. Consumer Safety Products Commission estimates that helmets used in skiing and snowboarding could prevent or reduce the severity of adult head injuries from skiing by 44 percent, and children by 53 percent.
Purpose of Goggles
Goggles provide many services to a skier. Goggles protect your eyes from damage from tree branches as well as prevent snow, wind and ice crystals from getting in your eyes as you ski. Most goggles are also tinted to help reduce glare from the sun to increase your vision while you're on the slope. Goggles also help keep your face warm by providing a tight seal against your face, trapping warm air in against your skin.
Choosing the Right Helmet
When selecting a helmet, look for a product that states it's CE certified, or approved by ASTM International or the Snell Memorial Foundation, marked by a Snell RS-98. Helmets should fit properly to your head, which makes ordering them online not recommended. Like a bike helmet, a skiing helmet should not move more than 1 inch in any direction while on your head. The back of the helmet should not be large enough to touch the back of your neck.
Choosing the Right Goggles
Before buying goggles, try the goggles on with your helmet because some goggles might not fit correctly with different types of helmets. Your choice of goggles should also have an anti-fog coating or vents on the side of the goggles to let warm air out and prevent the goggles from fogging up. Lenses come in several types, ranging from amber to dark green tints. Talk to an employee at a sporting goods store to determine which type is right for where you plan to ski. Always choose lenses with ultra-violet protection to protect your eyes from the damaging radiation from the sun.
References
- Snell Memorial Foundation: Standard for Protective Headgear
- ABC of Skiing: How to Buy a Ski Helmet
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: CPSC Staff Recommends Use of Helmets for Skiers, Snowboarders to Prevent Head Injuries.
- All About Vision: Ski Goggles: Buyer's Guide for Skiers and Snowboarders
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