Wearing sunglasses that are light and comfortable is especially important for snow sports, such as snowboarding, skiing and snowmobiling. It's important for sunglasses to provide maximum protection, especially against harmful, damaging UV rays. Snow slopes often magnify light, as snow reflects the sun's rays. Mirror coatings, polarized and amber tints are easier on the eyes than other types of coatings. These types enhance the contrast of surroundings and also minimize glare, which makes them especially good for bright snow.

Some goggles can even be customized with eyeglasses' prescriptions, which completely eliminates the need to wear glasses underneath. When choosing snow goggles, consider selecting a pair that offers wide peripheral views and a snug, form-fitting shape. Many even feature water-resistant padding, which helps wick moisture away from the face and prevents strap irritation. Side vents allow for maximum airflow, helping keep lenses fog-free. Some frames also offer removable temples and foam, offering superior lightness.

The following highlights the truth about UV exposure and winter sports.

• Whether it's sunny or cloudy outside, the sun beats continually responsible for delivering damaging UV radiation. While it can't be felt or seen, over time it has long-term, damaging effects on the eyes. Both UVA and UVB radiations can lead to eye damage and even skin cancer. Even in the wintertime, it's important to wear sunscreen that offers UVA/UVB protection, which includes wearing sunglasses that offer the same types of beneficial protection.
• Giving up winter sports doesn't have to be the solution to protecting baby blues. In fact, by simply wearing sunglasses that offer protective eyewear with durable polycarbonate lenses can help reduced UV exposure and block damaging rays.
• It's important to not only protect eyes from UV rays, but also the delicate skin surrounding the eyes. By wearing protective eyewear, athletes can ensure decreased exposure to UV rays. All outdoor winter activities require sun protection, including hockey, sledding and figure skating, to name a few.
• Most people believe the myth that if it's cold outside, UV rays are automatically blocked. Even if it's snowing and the ground is icy, snow reflects up to 80-percent of UV rays and UV radiation, which can even bounce off frozen water. This actually means double exposure to harmful rays, making it even more vital that people wear proper sunglasses protection.
• Additionally, many outdoor enthusiasts feel it's more important to focus on wearing warm clothes than protecting their vision. However, at higher altitudes, thinner air translates to more UV radiation. In fact, for every 1,312 feet of altitude that is gained, UV radiation exposure increased by 3-percent. Up to 80-percent of UV light is even reflected by the clouds and snow, even on overcast days.

Fortunately, Olympic Eyewear offers discount wholesale sunglasses by the dozen, which allows ski and snow sports shops to carry a variety of affordable sunglasses at wholesale prices.