Shred-Ready Ski And Snowboard Goggles
It's always hard to pin down the "best" goggle. Some people like the ease of an affordable pair that they can beat up over time, and then replace. Others prefer to load up on the the latest, most expensive models that are packed with the kinds of features (HD cameras!) and whiz-bang technologies (chemically-etched, anti-fogging!) that gear geeks gush about. But most of us fall somewhere between, striking a balance between style, performance, UV protection and value. Below are five solid options that span the goggle spectrum, one of which is sure to get your attention.
Smith Scope
One of the coolest things about Smith is they have scores of models in all price ranges, styles and lens preferences, beginning with the Scope and ending with state-of-the-art optics and performance value. The completely affordable Scope is less than $50. Dual lenses with airflow ventilation keep your view fog-free, and the compression-molded hypoallergenic face foam is comfy enough for all day wear. These goggles offer adequate UV protection, and the mirrored lens is ideal for people want good, protective optics but are tough on their equipment. Buy two pair and call it good for a couple of seasons.
$40; smithoptics.com
POC Iris Bug
Coming in below the $100 mark, the Iris Bug has a lot going for it. Built into a soft, comfy polyurethane frame, this dual lens goggle with three-layer face foam features anti-fog, anti-scratch treated technology for increased durability and clarity. The frame design offers superior peripheral vision—helping improve your reaction time on the slopes—making the user safer and, ultimately, protecting nearby skiers and riders from mid-course collisions. Plenty of super bright, standout-on-the-slopes color ways are available.
$90; pocsports.com
K2 Photokinetic
Made from a strong polycarbonate, each Photokinetic lens is treated with a hard coating for maximum performance and scratch resistance. The convex, bulbous angle of the lens offers a better-than-average vertical field of vision, and apparently icreases optical clarity by matching the "pantoscopic" angle of that lens to the human eye for a truer visual representation of slope topography. The helmet-compatible ventilation system works wonders for airflow, minimizing moisture buildup on high output backcountry forays into the snowy hills.
$125; k2skis.com
Julbo Revolution
The Revolution's Zebra photochromatic lens is an experience to behold. Reactive to the sun's rays, the dual lens optics darken or lighten to accommodate the intensity in less than thirty seconds, offering requisite UV protection in a dynamic, ever-changing setting. Add the anti-fog coating and the Revolution is a one-and-done option for serious skiers and riders who show up at first light and don't go home until after the lifts close.
$160; julbousa.com
Zeal iON HD
If you need sweet video footage (and, really, who doesn't?) but can't stand having a GoPro on your head, Zeal has you covered. Its iON HD camera goggle is built for documenting your on-slope adventure with all of the quality of a separate camera system and almost none of the extra bulk. First, the goggles themselves boast anti-fogging, impact-resistant frames, 100% UV protection and Zeal's award-winning Optimum™ lenses. The camera has a 170-degree, wide-angle lens that can capture 1080p and 720p HD quality video, as well as shoot 8-megapixel still shots. The lens automatically adjusts for light and relies on infinity focus to keep the footage clean. It runs on a rechargeable lithium ion battery with a three-hour run time, depending on usage. What's more, the in-goggle viewfinder (located in the bottom right corner) with its instant playback allows you to review everything you just shot without even removing your gloves.
$399; zealhd.com