Welcome to the only snowboarding goggles guide you’ll ever need.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner hitting the slopes for the first time, goggles are an essential piece of gear that shouldn’t be overlooked. From protecting you from the harsh elements to ensuring you can see every turn, our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about snowboarding goggles. In this post, we’ll delve into the different types, lens options, and additional features to consider when choosing your goggles. Plus, stay tuned for some bonus tips and tricks for maintaining your goggles and making the most of your time on the mountain. Get ready for the ride of your life.
Why do you need goggles for snowboarding?
Welcome to the world of snowboarding, where the snow is fresh and the air is crisp. But, as you brave down the slopes, you’ll quickly realize the importance of protecting your eyes. Here are two reasons why goggles are a necessity for your snowboarding adventure:
Protection from the elements
The cold wind on the mountain combined with snow, ice, and debris flying into your face can be both uncomfortable and dangerous. Goggles provide a barrier for your eyes, shielding them from the elements and protecting you from harmful UV rays.
Visibility on the slopes
The last thing you want is to miss a turn, hit a bump or crash into another snowboarder because you couldn’t see. Goggles make sure that your vision stays clear and unimpeded, allowing you to see everything on the slopes and navigate your way down with ease.
Protection from the elements
When you’re out on the slopes and the snow is whipping into your face, you’ll be grateful for the protection that snowboarding goggles provide. Not only do they protect your eyes from the physical hazards of snow, such as ice and debris, but they also shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
In addition, goggles are designed to create a seal around your eyes to prevent wind and snow from getting in, keeping you warm and dry as you carve down the mountain. Without goggles, you’ll find yourself squinting and tearing up, making it difficult to see where you’re going and increasing your risk of injury.
Luckily, by choosing the right pair of snowboarding goggles, you can stay protected from the elements and focused on your ride. So, let’s dive into the types of goggles available and what to consider when choosing the perfect pair for you.
Visibility on the slopes
Picture this: you’re racing down the slopes on your snowboard, carving through the snow, feeling the wind in your hair. It’s exhilarating, isn’t it? But it can also be dangerous if you can’t see where you’re going. That’s where snowboarding goggles come in.
Without goggles, you might experience blinding glare from the sun reflecting off the snow or a sudden snowstorm that obscures your vision. And let’s not forget about the snow that sprays up from your board and temporarily blinds you. All of these factors can affect your ability to see the terrain ahead, which could lead to a wipeout.
Snowboarding goggles provide a clear and unobstructed view, allowing you to navigate the slopes with confidence. You’ll be able to see any obstacles ahead, anticipate changes in terrain, and avoid other snowboarders.
But it’s not just about avoiding collisions. Goggles also enhance the overall experience of snowboarding. The right pair of goggles will improve visibility in low light conditions, making it easier to see when the sun goes down or when the weather turns. They can even enhance contrast and color perception, making the snow look more vibrant and allowing you to pick out the best lines through the terrain.
All in all, snowboarding goggles are an essential piece of equipment for any snowboarder. They protect your eyes from the elements, keep you safe on the slopes, and enhance your overall experience. So don’t forget to grab a good pair before you hit the mountain.
Types of snowboarding goggles
You can’t hit the slopes without the right gear, and snowboarding goggles are a crucial piece of equipment that shouldn’t be overlooked. But with so many types of goggles on the market, it’s hard to know which ones are right for you. In this section, we’ll break down the three main types of snowboarding goggles: frameless, cylindrical, and spherical, so you can choose the perfect pair to help you ride to new heights.
Frameless goggles
Frameless goggles are a relatively new addition to the snowboarding goggle scene. They have quickly gained popularity due to their modern and minimalistic design. Without a frame, the lens is attached directly to the strap, allowing for a larger field of view and less obstruction. This can be especially helpful in certain situations, such as when snowboarding in trees or in a halfpipe where you need to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Frameless goggles are also generally lighter weight than other types of goggles, which can be beneficial if you’re planning on wearing them for long periods of time. The lack of a frame can also make these goggles more comfortable to wear and less likely to cause pressure points or discomfort on your face.
However, there are some potential drawbacks to frameless goggles. Since there is no frame to protect the lens, they may be more prone to scratches or damage if they’re not properly cared for. Additionally, because the lens is attached directly to the strap, it can be more difficult to change out the lens if you need to switch to a different color or type of lens.
If you’re considering purchasing frameless goggles, make sure to research your options carefully and choose a pair that fits well, offers good visibility, and meets your needs in terms of lens type, color, and features. With proper care and maintenance, frameless goggles can be a great option for snowboarders looking for a modern and stylish goggle that offers excellent visibility and comfort.
Cylindrical goggles
Cylindrical goggles are a popular choice among snowboarders due to their wide field of vision. They have a curved shape that runs horizontally, which allows for a wider view of your surroundings. This is especially helpful when navigating through steep or tight terrain.
Another great advantage of cylindrical goggles is their affordability compared to other styles. They are a great option for those who want a high-quality goggle without breaking the bank.
While they are a great choice for many snowboarders, there are a few downsides to consider when choosing cylindrical goggles. Due to the way they are curved, they may not offer as much protection from the glare of the sun as spherical goggles. Additionally, their shape may make it more difficult to fit comfortably over glasses.
Overall, if you are looking for an affordable option with a wide field of vision, cylindrical goggles may be the way to go. Just make sure to consider your needs and preferences before making a final decision.
Spherical goggles
When it comes to snowboarding goggles, spherical goggles are the top of the line. They offer the widest field of vision and the most accurate depth perception, making them the preferred choice for serious snowboarders. The spherical shape of the lens mimics the curve of the eye, which means less distortion and better clarity. Plus, the larger size of the lens means that you can see more of the mountain and react quicker to any changes in terrain.
Spherical goggles come in a variety of styles and colors, so finding a pair that suits your personal taste is easy. They are also available with different lens tints and coatings depending on your needs. If you’re planning to snowboard in cloudy or low light conditions, look for goggles with a lighter tint. If the sun is shining bright, dark lenses will provide better UV protection and reduce glare.
When choosing spherical goggles, fit is crucial. Look for a pair that fits snugly without feeling tight or uncomfortable. Many goggles come with adjustable straps and foam padding that molds to your face over time, providing a more customized fit. If you wear a helmet when snowboarding, make sure the goggles fit comfortably over the helmet as well.
While spherical goggles are the top choice for serious snowboarders, they do come at a higher price point. If you’re just starting out or don’t plan to snowboard frequently, a frameless or cylindrical pair may be a more affordable option. But if you want the best possible experience on the mountain, investing in a quality pair of spherical goggles will be worth it.
What to consider when choosing snowboarding goggles
Choosing the right goggles for snowboarding is more than just picking the coolest looking pair off the shelf. To ensure you have the best experience on the slopes, you’ll need to consider factors like lens type and color, fit and comfort, and additional features like anti-fog, ventilation, and durability. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming, but fear not – we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into what to consider when choosing your perfect snowboarding goggles.
Lens type and color
The lens type and color you choose for your snowboarding goggles can make a huge difference in your on-slope experience. Firstly, you need to decide what conditions you will be mainly snowboarding in. If you’re an all-out park rat, a low VLT (visible light transmission) percentage will keep the glare off your eyes on those bright bluebird days. However, if you’re cruising groomed runs or hitting up some off-piste action on cloudy days, look for a higher VLT percentage to maximize clarity.
Different lens colors have various benefits too. Brown and grey lenses reduce glare and enhance contrast, making them great for sunny days. Yellow and orange lenses work well in low light conditions, brightening up flat light scenarios. Rose lenses are versatile and work great in a range of lighting conditions. Mirrored lenses reduce glare, but also have a reflective finish that looks cool as hell.
When making your decision, always bear in mind the light conditions you’ll be riding in the most, and the terrain you’ll be tearing up. Do your research and talk to your fellow snowboarders to ensure you make the best choice for your snowboarding goggles.
Fit and comfort
When it comes to fit and comfort in snowboarding goggles, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure the goggles fit snuggly and comfortably against your face without any gaps. Gaps can allow snow and cold air to sneak in, and can also interfere with your vision on the slopes. A good indication of a good fit is when you put the goggles on and they stick to your face without any real pressure.
Another thing to consider is the strap. Make sure it is adjustable and fits securely around your helmet or your head. A good strap will keep your goggles in place while you’re tearing down the slopes, and won’t slip or come undone.
Comfort is also key when it comes to long days on the mountain. Look for goggles with foam padding around the frame, as it will help to reduce pressure points and provide a more comfortable fit. Some goggles even have removable foam inserts that you can replace when they become worn or damaged.
Lastly, be sure to try on a few different goggles before you make your final decision. Not all goggles are created equal and what may work for your friend may not necessarily work for you. Trying on different styles and brands will help you find the perfect fit and ensure that you stay comfortable all season long.
Additional features (anti-fog, ventilation, durability)
When it comes to hitting the slopes, you want snowboarding goggles that are going to keep up with you. That’s why it’s important to consider additional features beyond lens and fit. Anti-fog coatings are a must-have for any serious rider, especially in wet, humid conditions. Nothing is worse than having your vision impaired by a fogged up lens halfway down the mountain.
Ventilation is another key consideration. The right design can help keep air flowing, preventing excess moisture and fogging. A good pair of goggles should strike a balance between ventilation and insulation, ensuring that you stay warm without sacrificing clarity.
And let’s not forget about durability. Snowboarding can be rough on gear, and goggles are no exception. Look for trusted brands and models with a solid reputation for toughness. You don’t want to have to replace your goggles mid-season because they couldn’t handle a few hard hits.
By taking these factors into account when selecting your snowboarding goggles, you can be sure you’re getting a pair that will help you see clearly and ride in style no matter the conditions.
Tips and tricks for using and maintaining your snowboarding goggles
You’ve got your snowboarding goggles, and now you’re ready to take on the slopes. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your goggles and keep them in top condition:
- Always carry a microfiber cloth with you to wipe away any moisture or snow that may accumulate on the lenses. Avoid using tissues or other rough materials that can scratch the lens.
- If your goggles have a ventilation system, make sure it’s open and unblocked to prevent fogging. If they don’t have a ventilation system, try leaving a small gap between your nose and the frame to allow for air circulation.
- When storing your goggles, avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or anywhere that they may become too hot or cold. This can damage the lens and frame.
- If you need to adjust the strap, be sure to do it carefully and avoid pulling it too tight, as this can distort the frame and compromise the seal.
- Consider investing in anti-fog spray or wipes to help prevent fogging, especially if you tend to sweat a lot or live in a humid climate.
By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your snowboarding goggles stay in top condition and provide you with the best possible experience on the slopes. Happy shredding!