Under the bright rays of a summer sun, it’s second nature to reach for a pair of sunglasses. Many people fail to provide their eyes the same protection during winter months, however! A brief exploration of the history of sunglasses leads all the way to the first pairs of “Eskimo Goggles,” many of which are now on display at the National Museum in Copenhagen. Such “glasses” were made of walrus-hide straps and thin oval-shaped animal bones with small slits carved through the centers.
Raleigh eye doctors can attest to the importance of protecting the eyes from the glare of the sun, whether in snow or on water. In ancient times, no two pairs of snow goggles were exactly the same because each pair was hand-carved by the wearer. By the 1960s, a modern version of the traditional “Eskimo Goggles” was made in Italy. Earpieces similar to glasses worn today were added, and the frames were made of plastic but finished to look like wood.
While there aren’t many dog-sledders in North Carolina, Raleigh eye doctors maintain the importance of protecting the eyes from the bright rays of a winter sun. In fact, even in cloudy or rainy weather, approximately 80% of harmful UV rays can pass through clouds. Wearing eye protection is especially helpful to those who are outdoors for sports or other winter activities.
UV rays can reflect back to the eyes off of water, snow or ice! Snow goggles and sunglasses not only help prevent tearing in sunshine or wind but also provide much needed protection from the risk of cornea damage that can occur from overexposure to the winter rays of the sun.
Call us to learn more about the history of snow goggles and the importance of protecting eyes from damage in winter!