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 Smith Squad packs a big punch into a surprisingly affordable package. This medium sized goggle fits perfectly with any helmet, and the semi frameless cylindrical lens never goes out of style. The Squad is equipped with a ChromaPop lens which increases contrast and makes colors more vibrant so all those hidden windlips and moguls magically become more visible. Plus, all Squad goggles come ... 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 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 be. Opt for a Reactive 0-4 lens and you’ll never need to change lenses again – the lifetime warranty-backed ... learn more
The basics: If you're tired of squinting through oversized goggles, Oakley’s Flight Deck M has you covered with its perfect mid-sized fit. Inspired by fighter pilot visors, these goggles give you an eagle-eyed view of the slopes so you can spot every line and obstacle with ease. The Ridgelock lens system lets you swap out lenses on the fly, adapting to whatever weather comes your way. Plus, the discreet ... 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: The Julbo Razor Edge goggles are built for backcountry adventures with unmatched precision and style. Their frameless design is not only bold but also ultra-comfortable, featuring easy-to-adjust straps that fit any face. The oversized cylindrical lens offers expansive peripheral vision and uses Reactiv technology to automatically adapt to changing light and weather, ensuring clear visibility ... learn more
The basics: Don't sweat the small stuff in the updated feature-packed classics, the Article II. Giro's signature EVAK Vent technology uses a durable, non-absorbent foam that promotes moisture-release while providing premium protection from the elements. Meanwhile, anti-fog coating eliminates condensation from the lens glass. Triple-layer face foam fits snug to your mug and is lined with microfleece so ... learn more
The basics: Made with 30 to 35% recycled materials, Atomic Four Pro HD PHOTO goggles will never let you down – whatever the weather and wherever you find yourself. The photochromatic HD lens automatically responds to changing light to always give you the optimum exposure and contrast, while the Cylindrical Double Lens provides an incredible field of vision on top of the crystal-clear view. The Live Fit ... learn more
The basics: Get ready to level up your shred game with the Dragon DX3 Plus OTG Goggles! Building on the success of the classic DX3, these goggles offer a sleek new look and unbeatable views. With Dragon’s Lumalens technology for crystal-clear vision, plus armored venting, triple-layer face foam, and super anti-fog power, you’ll stay comfy and fog-free from first chair to last call. For riders who demand ... learn more
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