Selecting the right pair of ski goggles for your young skier is no easy task. While it may be tempting to purchase a smaller version of your favorite pair, you should consider several factors first. Likely, what suits you will be quite different from what your child can or should wear. Before investing in a pair of goggles, consider that one of the most important features of the goggle is the ability to prevent injury. According to the Vision Council, more than 200,000 sports-related eye injuries occur among America's youth annually.
Eye Protection
Downhill skiers need protection from many elements, including the cold, wind, ice and airborne debris. Eye protection is also essential for preventing UV damage to the retina. When the sun reflects off the snow, the rays can be particularly harmful to the young eye; therefore, UVA/UVB protection is an important feature of goggles that shouldn't be overlooked. Young skiers are also prone to falls. Well-made goggles that stay put when being worn and that also have double lenses provide extra eye protection and also help prevent fog buildup.
Fit and Comfort
When it comes to the right fit for small faces, it is important to look for goggles that don't leave gaps or slip around, according to the Ski website. Look for goggles that fit small faces and adequately keep the cold and wind out. Goggles should also fit well with a helmet. Those that fit best will have a longer strap that fits around the helmet. If your child wears eyeglasses, look for goggles that fit comfortably over the child's corrective lenses. Soft foam around the frame of the goggle will boost the comfort level and also improve the fit.
Cost
The price tag for youth goggles will run between $20 for a pair of Smith Challenger goggles, to more than $140 for Bolle, but don't base your decision on price only. Ideally, a quality pair of goggles will last for at least a couple of years before your child outgrows them, but the most expensive pair won't necessarily be the best for your child. Many inexpensive brands on the market offer UVA/UVB protection, as well as the comfort and fit that are important to young skiers.
Buying Tips
Try before you buy. If possible, take the goggles outside, in the daylight, to make sure the protection from the sun's rays is adequate. If the lenses are reactive, do they indeed react to the sunlight and change color as they should? Can your child see well with them on? It is also a good idea to bring your child's helmet and try the goggles on with the helmet to be sure the strap fits snugly around the helmet. Try on as many goggles as your child will tolerate. While one pair may fit well, another may fit even better.
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