Everything you need to know about ski goggles: Complete guide

When preparing for a mountain outing, ski goggles are an essential part of your equipment. They protect you from UV rays, wind, and snow, while enhancing your vision in various weather conditions. To help you make the right choice, we’ve prepared this guide detailing the different types of lenses, goggle sizes, materials, and quick-change systems.

1. Different Types of Ski Lenses

   Lens Categories and Their Use

Ski lenses primarily differ in their tint and visible light transmission (VLT). Below is a summary table of the categories and their uses:

Visible Light Transmission (VLT)	Ideal Conditions
80% to 100%	Night or low light
40% to 80%	Low to moderate light, contrast enhancement
20% to 50%	Variable conditions, ideal for partly sunny days
5% to 20%	Very sunny days, maximum UV protection

Tip: Photochromic lenses automatically adjust their VLT according to light conditions, providing a versatile solution.

Each brand has a more detailed chart to help you compare lenses, here are those of our most popular brands:

• Oakley - Lens Guide
• Smith - Lens Guide
• Zeal - Lens Guide
• POC - Lens Guide

2. Choosing the Right Goggle Size

   Small, Medium, or Large Faces

Ski goggles should fit comfortably on your face and be compatible with your helmet. Sizes are divided into three main categories:

• Small size: Ideal for children or adults with narrow faces.
• Medium size: Suitable for most skiers.
• Large size: Perfect for wider faces or those seeking an expanded field of vision.
  
  

3. Spherical and Cylindrical Lenses

The choice between spherical and cylindrical lenses is an important factor when buying ski goggles. These two types of lenses differ in shape and visual performance.

Feature	Spherical Lenses	Cylindrical Lenses
Shape	Curved both horizontally and vertically.	Curved only horizontally.
Field of vision	Wider with better peripheral perception.	Slightly reduced, but sufficient for most skiers.
Distortion reduction	Optimal reduction of optical distortions.	May cause slight distortion, especially at the sides.
Anti-fog	Better ventilation due to increased curvature.	Less effective ventilation in some cases.
Price	Generally higher due to advanced design.	More affordable, ideal for a limited budget.

4. Quick Lens Change Systems

Some models allow you to quickly change lenses to adapt to changing conditions. Here are some of the most popular systems:

• Zeal Rail Lock System
  

• Oakley Switchlock

With Oakley’s innovative Switchlock technology, you can easily and securely swap lenses on the slopes, ensuring you're ready for all weather conditions.

• Smith 4D MAG

Smith’s locking levers add a good level of security to keep lenses in place during a fall.

These systems are particularly useful if you ski frequently in changing conditions.

Conclusion: Choose the Right Goggles to Fully Enjoy the Mountain

The choice of ski goggles depends on your specific needs and the weather conditions you encounter. Whether you're looking for photochromic lenses, a quick-change system, or durable materials, our store offers a wide range to meet all your expectations.

Visit our online store to discover our complete selection of ski goggles.