How to Choose the Right Snowboarding and Ski Goggles

If you’ve been planning to buy a pair of ski goggles, you can’t go in blind and pick any pair. The one-size-fits-all approach does not seem to work. There are a few considerations that you need to keep in mind while venturing into this investment. But fret not, there are only a couple of things that you be aware of, and you need to look no further than this guide to help you do that. 

 

Prescription glass wearers are aware of how crucial clear vision can be, even more so while engaging in sports activities. Well, rest assured that ski goggles can provide you with the vision correctness you need. 

 

In this guide, we will walk you through all that you need to know about your requirement-specific ski goggles so that you can choose the best for yourself. 

 

Let us begin by understanding the functions of ski and snowboarding goggles, and the conditions that warrant their best use. 

 

Why Do We Need Ski Goggles?

 

While many consider ski goggles a fashionable accessory, there are more prudential reasons to use them. They are not only essential for your safety in snow sports but also for maximizing performance in such activities. Here are some functions of ski goggles: 

 

• Ensuring clear visibility, especially in snowy/UV conditions when wearing sunglasses is not enough
• Fog-free vision in certain environments
• Providing contrast where needed, especially while changing terrain
• Shielding from UV rays
• Protection from possible injury 

 

Thus, ski goggles can be a key factor in determining your safety and comfort while you are engaged in your sport. They equip you with all you need to perform better and more comfortably. 

 

Let us now try to understand how different styles and designs are suited for different wearers. 

 

Who Will Be Wearing the Glasses?

 

The first thing you need to keep in mind while you choose a pair of ski goggles is who will be wearing them. Men have different facial structures as compared to women. Similarly, a pair of goggles that fit an adult won’t be comfortable for a child. Therefore, make sure that you consider the ski goggles based on who will be wearing them. 

 

i. Choosing Ski Goggles for Children: 

 

When it comes to choosing ski goggles for kids, there are some things you’ve got to keep in mind. For instance, the durability and comfort of the glasses become make-or-break elements. Children's goggles are generally made with sturdy materials to withstand knocks and harsh handling because kids' activities might be more demanding and unpredictable.

 

Kids also need to be equipped with an adjustable strap, and a vibrant design is necessary to keep them interested in wearing the goggles. 

 

Feel free to take a look at our top picks for kid’s ski goggles which come in a variety of designs. All of them can be fitted with a prescription insert, so you don’t have to worry about getting special prescription lenses! 

 

ii. Choosing Ski Goggles for Men: 

 

Men usually look for goggles that combine functionality, resilience, and style. Wider face shapes can be accommodated with larger frame options, which offer a secure and comfortable fit. For guys who value performance and functionality above all else, features like impact-resistant lenses, anti-fog coatings, and adjustable straps are a game-changer in men’s ski goggles.

 

If you want options that include all of these features, our list of favorites from men’s ski goggles to help you narrow down your choices. All of these options are made from shatter-resistant polycarbonate material. So, go ahead and ski however you want to, without worrying about damaging your snowboarding goggles. 

 

iii. Ski Goggles for Women: 

 

Women’s ski goggles are designed with feminine styles and smaller frames. If women want comfy and practical goggles, they must fit well with different head sizes and hairstyles. 

 

Like men, women place a high value on features that improve visibility and comfort during their snowboarding or skiing excursions, such as ventilation systems, anti-fog coatings, and UV protection.

 

Check out our versatile ski goggles for women, which are available in different sizes so that you can pick the best-suited ones. In case you need some help making a choice, take a look at our compilation of some of the best ski goggles for women. 

 

Ski Goggle Options for Prescribed Vision 

 

When it comes to any sport, clear vision is not something that can be compromised. This is even more important for snow sports, where changing terrain and light conditions make it necessary to have a distinct vision. Many people require glasses or contact lenses to see, and this can make participating in snow sports feel intimidating. Therefore, there are a few things you need to consider when buying prescription ski goggles.

 

Prescription ski goggles prove to be an excellent solution for those who require vision support. There are different ways to attain vision correctness in ski or snowboarding goggles, including: 

 

Prescription Lenses: 

 

Prescription lenses can be integrated into certain ski goggles, removing the need for glasses. These goggles effortlessly correct vision without compromising performance or appearance since they are tailored to fit your prescription.

 

Please note that ski goggles ordered with custom prescription lenses are created per set. In case your prescription changes in the future, you may be required to replace the lenses completely, and in certain cases, the entire goggle set. 

 

Prescription Inserts:

 

A popular choice amongst skiers, prescription inserts offer a practical and durable solution. We can accommodate a diverse range of prescription strengths within these inserts.

 

These prescription inserts are simple to put in and take out, so skiers can alternate between regular goggles and prescription ski goggles as needed. Additionally, they offer a more budget-friendly solution since you can get new inserts if your prescription changes over time instead of investing in new goggles.  

 

Most of the prescription snow goggles on Sporteyes come with adjustable prescription insert options, and you have a range of styles to choose from. 

 

Over-The-Glasses Ski Goggles: 

 

OTG (Over The Glasses) goggles are made for skiers who want to layer their ski goggles over their prescription glasses. OTGs are great for skiers who would rather wear prescription glasses for convenience while engaging in their preferred winter sports activities. 

 

These goggles include a large frame and an interior that's spacious and allows for glasses without affecting the goggles'  fit. To guarantee a sturdy and snug fit over spectacles, our collection of OTG goggles features adjustable straps or expanded outriggers. 

 

If you want to narrow down your choices, check out our top OTG ski and snowboard goggles.

 

Choosing the Right Size

 

Let us now look into how you can choose the right size for your ski goggles. Everyone has a different face structure and size, so it is important to consider the various sizes that these ski goggles come in. 

 

Here is an overview of the best sizes suited for different categories of users. 

Remember that these are not fixed rules and can vary, but they give you a rough idea to start with.

 

i. For Kids/Tween Fit: 

 

For young children, a Small or Extra Small size is best. If you're unsure which size to pick, you can measure your child's face to help you decide.

 

As a thumb rule, measure the width of your face (the distance between both temples) and the depth of your face (the area from the middle of the cheekbone to just above the eyebrow) for adequate measurement. 

 

ii. Small fit: 

 

A small size is best for kids or teenagers with a relatively smaller face. Most users under the age of 12 can fit into Small-sized goggles. 

 

iii. Medium Fit: 

 

For teenagers with a small face frame and female faces, a Medium fit is optimal. Males with a smaller face can also try a medium fit. 

 

iv. Large Fit: 

 

A large size is made for adult male frames and for females who prefer a bit more space. It fits well on most adult faces. 

 

v. Extra Large and Above: 

 

An XL is for larger frames that require more space. It is also for users who want that oversized look. 

 

vi. Asian Fit: 

 

Asian-fit eyewear accommodates those with lower nose bridges, higher cheekbones, and deeper profiles.

They come with added adjustments, such as higher nose pads, curved temples, etc. 

 

Now that we understand the sizes that snow goggles come in, let us look at the different shapes and which ones would be best for you. 

 

Selecting the Right Shape of Ski Goggles

 

There are many different ski goggles styles, each with specific features and advantages for different skiing conditions and individual preferences. These include:

 

i. Cylindrical Ski Goggles: 

 

Cylindrical ski goggles feature a curved lens that wraps around the face horizontally while remaining flat vertically. The cylindrical design, especially in bright, sunny circumstances, helps to prevent distortion and glare. They are also generally less expensive than other options. 

 

ii. Spherical Ski Goggles: 

 

With a curved glass that resembles the human eye shape, spherical ski goggles offer a more natural field of vision. With a curved glass that resembles the human eye, spherical ski goggles offer a more natural field of vision.

 

iii. Toric Ski Goggles: 

 

Toric ski goggles can be considered a hybrid between spherical and cylindrical ski goggles. These goggles have a low profile and the peripheral vision they give you is phenomenal. The lens is flat in the vertical plane(y-axis) and starts to get a cylindrical curve towards the x-axis where reflections and glare can cause problems. Therefore, it eliminates glare and also gets rid of the “bug-eye” shape that some ski goggles have. 

 

What Lens Material is Right for You

 

According to your preferred activity, there are also variations in lens material that you want to consider. There are two major variants: 

 

i. Polycarbonate Lens: 

 

Since polycarbonate lenses are durable and resilient to impact, they are perfect for hardcore adventures like snowboarding and skiing. It is lighter than glass, possesses a natural ultraviolet (UV) filter, and has remained an industry favorite for decades.

 

ii. Trivex Lens: 

 

When compared to other lens materials, Trivex lenses stand out for their superior visual quality, providing greater clarity, sharpness, and color contrast.

These lenses are impact-resistant and lightweight, offering reliable defense from ski-related debris and injuries.

 

Understanding the difference between these two lenses can help you decide which one would be best for you. 

 

How to Choose the Right Lens Tint

 

When choosing a pair of snowboarding and skiing goggles, you need to think about the weather conditions that you would be in. There are different light conditions that you could find yourself in. The right lens color can improve your skiing experience, so let us look at some of the options available to you. 

 

i. Low Light Conditions: 

 

Lighter-tinted or high-contrast lenses (such as yellow, rose, or amber) can improve visibility and depth perception in cloudy or foggy conditions.

 

ii. Bright Light Conditions: 

 

Darker tints like grey, brown, or mirrored lenses are great for lowering glare and minimizing eye strain on sunny days when the snow glare is too much. 

 

iii. Polarized Lenses:

 

In bright light, polarized lenses help to lessen glare and reflections from water, ice, and snow, improving sight and easing eye strain. For this reason, these lenses work especially well when skiing in bright sunlight. 

 

iv. Photochromatic Lenses: 

 

Transition or photochromic lenses automatically change color in response to varying lighting, offering the best possible comfort and visibility all day long. 

 

v. Interchangeable lenses: 

 

With interchangeable lenses, skiers can choose from a variety of lens colors and technologies to adapt to changing weather conditions. Being able to switch lenses will guarantee the best visibility and comfort throughout the day, regardless of the weather. 

 

What Coatings Should Your Ski Goggles Have

 

Ski goggle lens coatings are an important component as well. Ensure that the following coatings are available in your choice of snowboarding goggles:

 

i. Anti-fog: 

 

Temperature differences between the interior and exterior of the goggles can cause fogging. Anti-fog coatings are an effective method of avoiding fogging on your lens. These coatings avoid the development of foggy spots that can impair vision by absorbing moisture and distributing it uniformly throughout the surface of the lens.

These coatings are especially crucial in cold and humid settings.

 

ii. Anti-scratch: 

 

For long-lasting clarity and optical performance, anti-scratch coatings are vital. They offer a protective layer that helps to resist scratches, abrasions, and impacts. These coatings aid in maintaining the quality and aesthetic appeal of the goggles.

 

Ensuring Ventilation

 

Ski goggles can be bulky, especially if they are offering you so many features. However, that doesn’t mean that you should compromise on ventilation. Breathing in the alpines can be difficult and your ski goggles shouldn’t be another hurdle.

 

Therefore, make sure that you consider the following elements: 

 

i. Double-Layered Lenses: 

 

Many ski goggles have lenses with a small air gap between the layers, which helps avoid a suffocating feeling. By improving insulation and lowering the amount of heat transmission from the face to the lens, this design aids in the creation of a barrier against fogging.

 

ii. Vents: 

 

The warm, humid air produced by the wearer's body is circulated through these vents, which improves breathing. Air may circulate between the interior and exterior of ski goggles through ventilation vents that are placed around their sides. 

 

iii. Fans: 

 

Many innovative ski goggles come with inbuilt fan systems that actively move air around the goggles. These fans help by drawing in fresh air from the outside and expelling heated, humid air.

 

Other Things to Keep in Mind 

 

Now that we have looked at the importance of choosing the right lens tint, shape, and ventilation system, there are other important factors to consider when selecting ski goggles. These include:

 

i. Helmet Compatibility: 

 

To minimize damage risk and assure optimal protection in the case of a fall or accident, helmet compatibility is a must-have. 

Proper helmet compatibility means minimal gaps between the goggles and the helmet. To guarantee a snug and comfortable fit, make sure that your ski goggles and helmet are compatible. 

 

ii. Heated Frames: 

 

Certain ski goggles have heated lenses or frames to keep fogging from forming in severe weather. The goggles' internal temperature is regulated by heated components placed in the frame, which helps to prevent condensation and provide a clear view.

 

iii. Padding: 

 

Adequate and breathable padding is crucial for prolonged usage and overall ease on the slopes. Look for ski goggles with cushioning made of soft, hypoallergenic foam that fits your face's curves and absorbs the moisture generated. 

 

iv. UV Protection: 

 

The importance of UV protection cannot be overstated. UV-protective lenses ensure long-term eye health and safety by lowering the risk of UV-related eye disorders such as cataracts, snow blindness, and other conditions. Invest in ski goggles with 100% UV protection lenses to protect your eyes from damaging UVA and UVB rays.

 

Choosing Ski Goggles by Affordability 

 

It's crucial to carefully consider the features you desire in your goggles while evaluating their costs. Ski goggles range widely in price, ranging from low-cost models with regular functions to expensive models with sophisticated features. 

So, carefully consider the features that matter to you based on the type of adventure you seek and the conditions you expect to encounter.

 

It is advisable to prioritize elements like ventilation, anti-fog coatings, UV protection, and high-quality lenses since they will aid you in the long run. You can also select your goggles based on their brands. Let us look at it further. 

 

Choosing Ski Goggles by Brand 

 

Considerations such as reputation, quality, innovation, and consumer satisfaction need to be taken into account when selecting ski goggles based on brand. 

 

That is why, at Sporteyes, we offer only the best, top-selling brands that have created a reputable name for themselves in the industry. With all time-favorites such as Panoptx and Aquaviz, we want to make sure that our customers get exactly what they pay for. 

 

We have an assortment of ski goggles brands you can choose from. 

 

Conclusion 

 

So there you have it! An all-included guide for buying snowboard goggles that can help you get the best ones for yourself. Ski goggles offer you the perfect way to protect your eyes while engaging in snow sports, and now you can choose the ones that match your specific needs.

 

For skiers and snowboarders who would rather have a different kind of eyewear, there are alternatives as well. Snow sunglasses are a good substitute for ski goggles since they shield the eyes and lessen glare in bright weather.

 

However, as you can probably tell for yourself by now, snowboarding and ski goggles offer you a lot more than just regular protection from glare. They add their extra zing to your experience making it all the more worthwhile. 

 

So keep these considerations in mind when you go shopping for snow goggles. With a modest investment in top-quality goggles, you'll be grateful after your next big adventure. So get going now!