The history of goggles

 The history of goggles dates back centuries, evolving from simple protective eyewear to modern, specialized designs used in various fields.

1. Ancient Times:

The Inuit and other indigenous Arctic people developed the earliest forms of goggles around 2,000 years ago. They made them from bone, wood, or leather with narrow slits to protect their eyes from snow blindness, a condition caused by the glare of sunlight reflecting off snow.

2. 18th Century:

Goggles started being used in industries, particularly by blacksmiths, to protect their eyes from flying debris, heat, and intense light from furnaces.

3. 19th Century:

Goggles began to be used in science and medicine, as well as in sports. They were made from metal or leather frames and glass lenses to protect the eyes in hazardous environments.

4. World War I & II:

Goggles gained importance during the wars for military purposes, especially for pilots. Aviator goggles were designed to protect against wind, dust, and debris at high altitudes, and they became iconic after being popularized by early pilots like Amelia Earhart.

5. 20th Century:

The development of plastic and more advanced materials allowed goggles to become lighter, more durable, and versatile. They began to be used widely in sports (swimming, skiing, motor racing), safety equipment in laboratories, and in various trades (welding, construction, etc.).

6. Modern Era:

Today, goggles are specialized based on their use: protective goggles for industry, sport-specific goggles, military/tactical goggles, and even smart goggles equipped with augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) technology.

Throughout their history, goggles have transformed to meet the demands of safety, vision correction, and now digital interaction.