When on the slopes, eye protection has to be a paramount safety concern and that is where skiing and snowboarding goggles come in. Just as with sunglasses, choosing the right pair of goggles depends on different factors including prevailing weather conditions and the type of activity you will partake in.
Probably the most important factor in choosing a great pair of ski goggles is the UV (ultra violet) protection they offer. Most top brands today sell goggles that offer 100% UV protection but it does pay to make sure before you purchase a pair.
If you’re a helmet wearer, you need to be sure that the goggles you purchase are helmet compatible. Quite a few goggles nowadays are not, but all good descriptions on the product pages or stands of the various websites and stores that sell them will state if they are compatible or not. If nothing is mentioned you can probably take it that they are not compatible.
As goggles are designed to be worn in variable weather conditions, most incorporate a range of anti-fog and venting features. Fog free lenses are possible by buying goggles with a double lens and a venting system. The vents provide air circulation within the goggles which reduces the instances of fogging as well as keeping your eyes cool and refreshed. Most goggles provide lenses that have been chemically treated as well, making them water resistant which in turn help to reduce fogging.
Ski goggle lenses tend to come in a variety of tints and colours, each with their own benefits in certain light conditions. Bronze lenses normally offer the greatest protection against UV rays and can be used in a range of diverse conditions, from sunny through to overcast. Bronze chrome lenses tend to offer better protection in bright sunlight but are unsuitable for lower light conditions including night time skiing or blizzards.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, clear lenses let the most light through so would be ideal for the low light conditions mentioned above.
If clear lenses are not your thing though, you could try clear chrome orange, clear chrome blue or yellow lenses. These lenses offer the same advantages that clear lenses offer while at the same time letting in a bit less light with a tint.