Goggles are often an over-looked piece of gear. But it just takes one day of foggy lenses, insufficient clarity in low-vis conditions, or an uncomfortable fit to convince you to upgrade. Goggles that work just as well on a sunny March day as they do during a blizzard in December are well worth a few extra bucks. We've picked a few of the best ski goggles in our inventory to help make your ski days more comfortable and enjoyable.
Looking for some information on ski goggles?
There's a lot of different tech specs on goggles. Here's a quick guide to get you started.
Spherical vs. cylindrical: Spherical lenses are blown into a spherical shape to closely match the curvature of your eye, ultimately placing less strain on your vision throughout the day. In theory, this shape creates the least amount of distortion for your eyes, while also giving you greater peripheral vision. Cylindrical lenses are stamped out of a sheet of plastic and bent into the shape of your goggle. This shape can allow for very wide fields of vision.
Different lenses: Some goggles will feature a system to change out lenses that work best for different lighting conditions on the mountain. You'll see this represented as VLT (visual light transmission). The lower the number, the less light passed through the lens. Those low VLT lenses appear dark, like sunglasses, preventing light from going through the lens and blinding you (especially with bright white snow on the ground). The higher the number, the more light passed through. These are best for low light conditions when the snow appears flat and it is difficult to see the terrain in front of you. If you deal with variable conditions a lot, consider looking for a google with interchangeable lenses. Not all goggles come with two lenses already. Be sure to read the description to find out what's included.
Helmet and goggle compatibility: Be sure to have a goggle and helmet combination that's compatible. All we're looking for here is a snug fit along the top rim of your goggle to the visor of your helmet. The helmet should also have vents right on top of the visor to help prevent fogging. A good fit between the two will ensure there's no fogging and keeps your face and head more insulated. Nothing feels worse than a biting cold wind hitting your forehead and keeping you from feeling comfortable! Most goggles and helmets work together, but for the best fit, use a goggle and helmet from the same brand.
The basics: With several season's under its belt, the Smith 4D MAG has proven it belongs at the top of the lineup. Smith's Birdseye Vision increases your overall field of view by 25% thanks to a unique curvature in the lens on the bottom of the goggle. Smith also updated the interchangeable lens system. Quick levers easily release on the bottom of the frame allowing the lens to pop out of it's magnetic ... learn more
The basics: The model that started it all is back and on its way to being a classic. The IO MAG has updated colorways and lens options for this season - with the new patterns and colors you are sure to find something that matches your unique style. Although style is always first, function is a close second. That's why Smith has incorporated their top features into this goggle, like the 5X anti-fog inner ... learn more
The basics: The Line Miner goggle is all about giving you the best peripheral vision on the slopes. Its cylindrical lens design pulls the goggle closer to your face than ever, letting you spot every detail around you. With a large fit that suits a variety of face shapes, it's also engineered to snugly fit with most helmets. If you’re after a goggle that delivers clear, expansive vision and a ... learn more
The basics: The original Line Miner goggle was created with the purpose of providing the ultimate in peripheral vision, with a cylindrical shaped lens. Oakley expanded the size offering as a complete family, adding this medium-sized goggle to the arsenal, equipped with Oakley's industry-leading Prizm Lens Technology. This low-profile frame design provides increased visibility and improved helmet ... learn more
The basics: Good gear is like hip-hop: find something that works, sample its best elements, and rework them into something entirely new. New to the Giro lineup this year is the Method Goggle. It's a compilation of Giro's well-loved features, like VIVID technology lenses by ZEISS and seamless compatibility with all Giro helmets, layered upon their latest technologies. The newly developed Expansion View ... learn more
The basics: Inspired by racing, the Nexal brings substance to a unique style. The addition of zygomatic bone covers builds on the idea that goggles do more than simply protect the eyes. The frame outriggers allow for a closer fit to the helmet and for the frame to sit more comfortably on your face. Clarity lenses by Zeiss have been developed with specific and highly advanced tints designed to enhance ... learn more
The basics: The RVX MAG OTG goggles are a standout with their Swiftlock Magnetic lens system, making lens changes a snap with just one hand! Their cylindrical lenses are both stylish and OTG-compatible, so you can wear glasses comfortably without sacrificing visibility. With excellent protection against water and dirt and a range of sharp designs and premium lens options, these goggles offer the ... learn more
The basics: The Lightyear (formerly the Aerospace) is your go-to goggle for any condition. With its new Superflow Pro system, you can keep lenses fog-free and adjust ventilation with just a flick of your glove-covered finger. Integrated magnets keep the vents securely closed when you need them to ... learn more
The basics: Meet the NFX MAG OTG snow goggles, where top-tier functionality meets slick design! With the ultra-fast Swiftlock Magnetic lens system and Lumalens color optimization, these goggles are all about quick swaps and clear views. Endorsed by stars like snowboarder Danny Davis, they boast a frameless design, armored venting, and helmet compatibility. For a goggle that delivers premium performance ... learn more
The basics: We're not giving you side-eye, we're showing off the incredible range of vision in these frameless wonders. The Axis features Giro's EXV technology, a tapered design with frameless zones, to give you a massive, spherical view. EVAK vent technology releases heat while protecting you from the elements. Two VIVID lenses by ZEISS are included and their quick-change magnetic lens system makes it ... learn more
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