This winter, when many of us head to the slopes, it’s important to remember to keep your eyes safe. Snow, speed, and icy winds pose risks to the eyes, risks that are often overlooked until it’s too late. Here’s what every skier should know about keeping their eyes safe.
Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, far more than most everyday conditions. At high altitudes, exposure is even stronger.
Without proper protection, skiers risk photokeratitis, essentially sunburn of the eyes, causing pain, blurred vision, and temporary sight loss.
Tip: Always wear goggles with 100% UV protection.
Freezing air hitting the eyes at speed strips away moisture, leading to dryness, irritation, and blurred vision. Over time, this can cause inflammation and discomfort.
Tip: Goggles don’t just protect against impact; they help retain moisture and shield the eye’s surface.
Falls and flying ice can result in serious eye injuries. Even a small impact without protection can lead to permanent sight loss.
Tip: Eye protection should always be part of skiing safety gear.
Whether navigating steep slopes or watching for obstacles, sharp vision is crucial for judging distance and terrain changes.
Tip: Regular eye checks ensure you can see clearly and stay safe.
Redness, watering, or blurred vision in cold weather may seem normal but could indicate infections or underlying eye conditions that need attention.
Tip: Don’t ignore symptoms, seek professional advice if they persist.
Skiing reminds us that vision matters, not just for sport, but for everyday life. Clear sight helps keep people safe, independent and able to work, learn and thrive.
At Orbis, we work to make this possible for people around the world. We train local doctors, nurses and eye care teams, support hospitals with vital equipment, and share specialist knowledge through our Flying Eye Hospital and digital learning platform, Cybersight.
By building local skills and sustainable services, we help communities prevent avoidable blindness and treat eye conditions long after our teams have left.
Whether you’re racing down a slope or navigating daily life, everyone deserves the chance to see clearly.
This winter, as skiing takes centre stage, remember that protecting eye health isn’t just about the sport; it’s about sight, safety, and opportunity for all.
