Eye protection and visibility are crucial for snowboarders and skiers of every skill level. A proper pair of goggles should have a comfortable fit, allow full peripheral visibility and offer adequate ventilation to reduce fogging as much as possible. The lens is an important factor to consider when selecting a pair of goggles. There are a wide variety of lens options to choose from, which offer unique variations in visibility depending on the weather conditions. When selecting a pair of goggles, understand how the color and style of the lens will affect visibility and eye protection.
Step 1
Determine the light you will be snowboarding in, and which lens color works best with it. Different lens colors have a significant effect on visibility. A clear lens filters the least amount of light and excels in low-light or night conditions. However, it generally offers the least amount of protection from glare and is not the best choice during clear or sunny conditions.
Yellow, gold, orange and amber lenses filter out blue light and emphasize shadows, making bumps and variations in the snow easier to see. These colors are a great choice for low-light, cloudy or stormy conditions and also work well in moderate light.
Darker colors increase contrast and can serve a range of lighting. A green tint will work well in low-light conditions, while a brown or dark amber lens will excel in brighter light.
Red, pink and rose colors will increase depth perception and also work well in different lighting. Darker tints filter out more light and are generally better in bright conditions, while lighter tints work well in low light or moderate conditions.
Step 2
Determine what shape lens will work better for you. Shape refers to the vertical curve of the lens and is either flat (also called cylindrical) or spherical. A spherical lens curves from the nose to the forehead, and a flat lens has no vertical curve. Both types still maintain a horizontal curve across the eyes. A flat lens is typically cheaper, and a spherical lens offers better peripheral vision with less glare.
Step 3
Consider anti-fogging materials. Anti-fogging properties are important to help ensure visibility is maintained throughout the day. The first consideration is between a double or single lens model. Double lens goggles create a thermal barrier between the inside and outside lens and won't fog up as often as a single lens. A single lens model will be cheaper, however. Anti-fogging coats are another option to look for. Most mid- to high-level goggles have an anti-fogging coat integrated in the lens, which will provide significant relief from fogging. Vents are another feature to check out. Multiple or wider vents will provide the best anti-fogging but may leave your face colder. Some high-end models even have a small fan built into the goggles to disperse heat and improve airflow.
Step 4
Determine which finish is best for you. Different finishes can affect glare as well as the amount light filtered through. A mirrored lens is often more of an aesthetic feature, but it will reflect more light and grant a slightly darker vision than a non-mirrored lens. Polarized lenses reduce the glare from sunlight reflected off water and snow and are usually best used in bright, sunny conditions. Photochromic lenses are available on some of the higher-end models. This type of lens will automatically adjust its tint based on the intensity of UV rays. Great for quickly changing weather, these models will darken in bright sunlight and lighten in cloudy weather.
Tips and Warnings
- A number of products can enhance the anti-fogging properties of any goggles. Anti-fogging sprays can be quickly and easily applied to the lens. Fog sponges can be used to clear out the fog and absorb moisture on the lens. Most goggles come with a cloth carrying case, which is useful for dabbing moisture and fog from the lens.
- Only use a soft cloth material to dab, not wipe, the lens clean. Never use napkins, paper towels or other wood grain products, as they can cause permanent scratches to the lens.
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