Last updated on October 24, 2025
Yes. Traditional Inuit snow goggles can be used in Canadian fashion shows, provided their use respects cultural protocols and does not misrepresent or exploit Inuit heritage. Ethical use often involves consultation with Inuit communities or creators.
From Arctic Innovation to Runway Inspiration
They may look like minimalist eyewear, but traditional Inuit snow goggles—known as iggaak or ilgaak—are among the earliest forms of protective eyewear in human history. Crafted from materials like bone, ivory, or wood, these ingenious designs shielded Inuit eyes from the blinding glare of the sun reflecting off snow and ice. Today, they’re not just functional—they’re iconic.
So when a Canadian fashion designer considers showcasing these goggles on the runway, the question arises: is it allowed? Legally, yes. But culturally, it’s a matter of respect, representation, and responsibility.
A Legacy of Craft and Culture
Inuit snow goggles date back over 800 years and were developed to combat snow blindness—a painful condition caused by UV rays bouncing off Arctic landscapes. Their narrow slits reduce light exposure while enhancing visual clarity, a design so effective it’s been studied by historians and engineers alike.
These goggles are more than tools; they’re cultural expressions. Each pair reflects the geography, materials, and traditions of the community that made them. That’s why their use in public displays, including fashion shows, is subject to ethical considerations—even if not restricted by law.
The Legal Landscape
Canada does not prohibit the use of traditional Indigenous items in fashion or media. However, the government has taken steps to protect Indigenous cultural expressions through intellectual property frameworks. The Intellectual Property Strategy launched by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada aims to make Canada’s IP system more inclusive of Indigenous needs.
This includes support for trademarks, certification marks, and authenticity labels—like the Igloo Tag, which identifies genuine Inuit art. While snow goggles themselves may not be trademarked, their cultural significance means they fall under the broader umbrella of Traditional Cultural Expressions (TCEs). These are not automatically protected by IP law, but their use is guided by principles of respect and consultation.
Best Practices for Designers
Using Inuit snow goggles in a fashion show isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling. Designers are encouraged to collaborate with Inuit artists or communities, ensuring the goggles are presented in a way that honors their origin. This could mean sourcing replicas from Inuit makers, crediting the cultural source, or even co-creating pieces that blend tradition with innovation.
The Canadian Conservation Institute also advises institutions and creators to consult with Indigenous communities when working with culturally sensitive objects. This approach fosters mutual respect and helps avoid cultural appropriation—a concern that has gained increasing attention in the fashion world.
Why It Matters
Fashion is a powerful platform. When used thoughtfully, it can celebrate Indigenous heritage and bring visibility to traditional knowledge. But when misused, it risks commodifying culture and erasing context.
Inuit snow goggles are a testament to human ingenuity and adaptation. Their place on a Canadian runway should reflect not just their design brilliance, but the deep cultural roots from which they came.
See more on Canada
Sources
Caring for sacred and culturally sensitive objects
https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/preventive-conservation/guidelines-collections/caring-sacred-culturally-sensitive-objects.html
November 19, 2022
Indigenous peoples and intellectual property
https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/intellectual-property-strategy/en/indigenous-peoples-and-intellectual-property
October 2025