Best Snowboard Goggles of 2023

Exploring the best snowboard goggles on the market, from cutting-edge technology to budget-friendly classics

No matter if you're a slope beginner or a seasoned alpinist, the perfect pair of snowboard goggles awaits you. Advances in interchangeable lens technology have made it quick and easy to change tints, while Smith's curved lens technology has revolutionized the field of view. Additionally, budget-conscious options are still available for those working with limited funds – many excellent snow goggles can be found for under $125! Take a look at our selections below for some of the finest snowboard eyewear of the 2022/2023 season, and continue reading for detailed comparison tables and buying advice on choosing the right snowboard goggles for you.

Snowboard Goggles Comparison Chart

Name	Price	technology	Type	Changing	Face Foam	OTG	Frame size	lenses	Colors
Oakley Flight Deck L	186$	Prizm	Spherical	Quick	Triple	yes	M/L	2	20+
Anon M4 Toric MFI	320$	ICT	Toric	Magna Tech	Triple	yes	S/M/L	2	8
Smith I​/O MAG	270$	ChromaPop	Spherical	Quick	Triple	no	S/M/L	2	16
Smith Squad Goggles	110$	ChromaPop	Cylindrical	no	double	no	M	2	14
Oakley Line Miner	104$	Prizm	Cylindrical	no	Triple	yes	S/M/L	1	20+
Dragon DX3 OTG	70$	LUMALENS	Cylindrical	no	Double	yes	M	1	12
Smith Range	60$		Cylindrical	no	Double	no	L	1	9
OutdoorMaster Ski Goggles PRO	50$		Spherical	Magnetic	Triple	yes	L	1	20+
Julbo Aerospace Goggles	280$	REACTIV Photochromic	Spherical	no	Double	yes	L	1	3
Smith Gambler Goggles Little Kids	40$		Cylindrical	no	Single	yes	S	1	4
Smith Daredevil Goggles Big Kids	35$		Cylindrical	no	Double	no	S/M	1	4

Top Snowboard Goggles Overall

Oakley Flight Deck ($186)

The Oakley Flight Deck provides exceptional visibility, long-lasting comfort, and premium quality, all while featuring a single lens. Those who wish to personalize the goggles with extra lenses might find the swapping process more challenging than with contemporary alternatives. In comparison to the Smith IO MAG and Anon M4, it is more affordable, but it only includes one lens; an extra lens will set you back another $50.

The Oakley Flight Deck L takes the top spot on our list due to its expansive and wide view, making it feel as if you're not wearing anything at all. This trusted snowboard goggle is renowned for its oversized, rimless shape, and spherical lens. The low-profile design ensures an impressively large field of view compared to similar products. Additionally, Oakley's Prizm technology rivals Smith's ChromaPop in boosting color vibrancy and contrast, making your outdoor experience reminiscent of stunning Instagram photos that seem too good to be true.

Anon M4 Toric MFI ($320)

The M4 boasts a classic design that offers a multitude of unparalleled features. Purchasing this pair means enjoying two high-quality lenses, refined styling, quick lens changes with its Magna-Tech system, and effective protection through included hard/soft cases and a face mask – all in one package!

The M4 and its more compact counterpart, the M4S, provide a variety of toric and cylindrical lens options, which can be mixed and matched right on the frame. With 14 magnets and two thumb grips, the lenses can be easily swapped – even when wearing gloves. Many users have praised these goggles for their ability to keep the lenses securely in place, even during falls.

Integrated with Clarity Technology (ICT) for anti-fog treatment and Carl Zeiss sonar lens for superior vision and terrain recognition.

The innovative magnetic face mask attaches to the bottom of your goggles, keeping cold air out without compromising visibility due to fogging, offering the ultimate winter protection. It's so ingenious that you might say it should be mandatory gear!

Smith I/O MAG - ($270)

Smith goggles deliver unmatched performance, boasting exceptional optics, an extensive field of view, and two ChromaPop lenses. Designed for a comfortable fit on the slopes, these goggles also feature one of the best air ventilation systems available. Although the interchange system might not be as fast as Anon M4's magnetic technology, the Smith I/O Mag remains an excellent choice for any snowboard enthusiast.

Smith's Goggles come equipped with ChromaPop lenses for improved visibility, delivering stunning 4K-like color quality that highlights details in various conditions. These goggles are perfect for daring snowboarders who won't let the weather stop them, as they adapt to different lighting situations, making every experience more enjoyable. With two lenses included and various sizes available, these goggles cater to all facial dimensions.

Best Budget Snowboard Goggles Under $125 from Reputable Brands

Smith Squad Goggles ($110)

These reasonably-priced goggles boast ChromaPop lens technology, Smith's top-of-the-line lens offering. They come with two lenses suitable for sunny and overcast days. The main drawback is the inconvenient lens change system, which is best tackled at your accommodation rather than on the mountain.

The Fog-X Anti-Fog Inner Lens is embedded into the Smith Squad Goggles and cannot be wiped off.

Smith utilizes Tapered Lens Technology (TLT) to correct visual distortion by progressively tapering the lens from the optical center to the outer edges in this robust cylindrical lens.

This is an excellent choice featuring Smith's top technology at a highly affordable price. With this package, you get best-in-class lenses, an outstanding anti-fog system, a double layer of face foam, and two lenses included.

Oakley Line Miner ($124)

The Oakley Line Miner Goggles sit closer to the face than any previous Oakley design, providing unparalleled peripheral vision. The groundbreaking Prizm™ lenses deliver unmatched contrast and definition across a wide range of light conditions. The goggles are designed to work harmoniously with various helmet styles, featuring outrigger mounts that evenly distribute pressure across the goggle chassis and silicone beaded inner straps that stay securely in place. 360˚ frame venting ensures optimal airflow when worn with a helmet.

The Prizm lenses correct visual distortion in the cylindrical lens design, and the low-profile frame offers an optimized field of view in all directions, along with seamless helmet integration.

Like the Smith Squad Goggles, the Oakley Line Miner includes the best Oakley technology at a highly affordable price. The downside - the lens change system is not as user-friendly as its more expensive Flight Deck counterpart.

Dragon DX3 OTG ($59-69)

Dragon delivers unbeatable value and outstanding performance! Their signature LUMALENS technology offers maximum color contrast and visual clarity, significantly enhancing your field of vision. The lenses are extra durable, featuring a hard-coating finish that resists scratches and repels water, dust, dirt, or oil for all-weather protection. Combined with the dual-layered face foam construction, which helps prevent fogging and wick away sweat, Dragon provides superior lens quality at an incredible price!

The Dragon DX3 is an ideal goggle for skiers and snowboarders tired of dealing with foggy lenses. With a Super Anti Fog coating and classic-style design, it offers exceptional value without sacrificing performance or coverage. If you're looking for a reliable yet affordable option to maintain clear vision on the slopes, Dragon's top-notch goggles are the perfect choice!

Essentially, it's a premium pair of goggles at a remarkably low price.

Smith Range ($60-80)

The Range's budget-friendly price tag comes with a small trade-off: no lens-swapping capability to accommodate changing conditions. Choosing this model also means missing out on Smith's ChromaPop technology, which delivers enhanced clarity and precision compared to other models in its class. However, if your skiing or snowboarding mainly occurs on well-groomed trails in favorable weather conditions, these limitations might not be a significant concern. Otherwise, investing in higher-end designs for consistent performance regardless of the environment is recommended.

The Smith Range provides a practical solution for snowboarders on a budget: quality eye protection with a classic look at an affordable price. This goggle features wide frame visibility to eliminate tunnel vision and comfort-focused components like multi-layer foam cushioning and their renowned anti-fog coating.

Best Budget Snowboard Goggles from Amazon

OutdoorMaster Ski Goggles PRO - ($50)

Featuring various anti-fog properties, including a dual-pane lens and special coating, these goggles are equipped to handle those dreaded foggy days. They boast a dual-pane lens, anti-fog coating, and ample ventilation.

Though the lens is considered entry-level, the goggles provide a remarkably clear and distortion-free view. We were impressed with their performance in all light conditions – from bright surfaces to water – without glare issues, even without using polarized lenses. The goggles feature a spherical lens design, ensuring no issues with peripheral vision.

The fit was decent, but it may not work well for individuals with larger noses.

The lens change system resembles the Anon M4 Magna-Tech changing system, and it's fantastic!

These goggles come with an efficient lens-swapping feature that functions remarkably well. The magnets keep the lenses securely in place and can easily be adjusted by pushing on the frame's outer end. This prevents contact between fingertips and the inner side of the lens, avoiding fogging caused by oil contamination from your skin. The lenses are also easy to switch while wearing bulky snowboard gloves, as long as you grip them firmly at both the top and bottom.

The goggles come with over 20 different lens colors.

Overall, it's an incredible budget solution for interchangeable lenses.

Best Interchangeable Lens System Goggles

Anon M4 Toric MFI ($320)

Selecting the best interchangeable lens system goggles was an easy choice; no other brand has mastered lens change like the Anon M4 Toric MFI.

Swapping out the lens only takes a few seconds.

You can find the full review earlier on this page.

Best Ventilated Snowboard Goggles

Julbo Aerospace Goggles ($280)

For backcountry splitboarders tackling challenging ascents, Julbo's Aerospace goggle is essential. The SuperFlow System enables quick deployment of hinges on the lens, increasing airflow and eliminating fogging—even during intense activity. The design allows for easy reattachment without removing your gloves. With all these features in one sleek design, Julbo has created an invaluable piece of equipment for adventurous snowboard mountaineers.

While Julbo's ventilation-focused design offers a premium goggle experience at a price of $280-$290, it includes only one photochromic lens. These lenses work well in sunny locations like Colorado, but their tendency to darken when transitioning between light conditions, like moving through trees or shade, may be a concern. However, Julbo provides excellent optics and superior ventilation, making them perfect for backcountry adventures.

Best OTG (Over the Glasses) Goggles

Oakley Flight Deck ($186)

The Oakley Flight Deck Large is an excellent choice for snow goggles, particularly for those who want to wear glasses on the slopes. The wide fit and modified eye openings accommodate all eyeglass sizes. Prizm lenses provide outstanding peripheral vision, while dual-vented lenses ensure fog-free clarity in extreme conditions.

Refer to the full review earlier on this page.

Best Snowboard Goggles for Kids

Smith offers the most extensive selection of goggles for children of all ages.

Smith Gambler Goggles - Small Kids ($40)

While these goggles don't feature advanced Smith lens technology, they do include the Fog-X Anti-Fog Inner Lens, ensuring 100% clear vision for your child. Additionally, they are very comfortable, featuring a floating foam membrane that eliminates eyeglass temple pressure.

Smith Daredevil Goggles - Big Kids ($35-50)

Upgrade your child's snowboarding experience with the Smith Daredevil Goggles. Equipped with a futuristic anti-fog Carbonic-X lens designed for exceptional impact resistance, these goggles provide an unparalleled level of protection and visibility in extreme conditions. An innovative Floating Foam Membrane also eliminates eyeglass temple pressure for extra comfort during long days on the slopes. Invest in top performance this season by getting your child set up with Smith Daredevil Goggles!

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How to Choose Snowboard Goggles - All You Need To know

Determine Your Needs Based on Skill Level

Beginners:

Avoid purchasing high-end goggles initially. As you spend your first few days learning, goggles may not be necessary unless it is snowing. Opt for affordable Amazon bestsellers from lesser-known brands or budget goggles from reputable brands. These options will suffice for your first snowboarding vacation.

Intermediate Snowboarders:

As you progress and become a confident Snowboarder tackling red slopes, relishing speed, and Snowboarding in various weather conditions, it's time to invest in quality goggles. With proper care, these goggles can last for multiple seasons.

Advanced Snowboarders:

Experienced Snowboarders navigating different weather conditions and terrains may require multiple pairs of goggles or, at the very least, high-end goggles with interchangeable lenses.

Fit and Comfort

Fit: Ensuring that snowboard goggles fit your face correctly is a crucial aspect of comfort when selecting the right pair. The goggles should feel snug but not too tight, providing a comfortable and secure fit on your face.

To assess the fit and comfort of your goggles, measure them while wearing your helmet. Although most well-known brands are compatible, opting for a helmet and goggles from the same brand can enhance your overall comfort.

It's essential to make sure that the goggles form a secure seal around your eyes to prevent wind or snow from entering.

Foam: Seek snowboard goggles with soft foam padding around the frame to offer extra cushioning and comfort. The foam helps establish an airtight seal between your face and goggles while insulating you from the cold temperatures. There is often a significant difference in comfort between high-quality and low-quality goggles in this regard.

Fogging and Ventilation

Fogging is likely the most significant and critical issue encountered with snowboard goggles.

Foggy goggles can negatively impact your snowboarding experience. To minimize this problem, consider purchasing a double-lens frame and examine the vent size to ensure they're not obstructed by your helmet when worn. Also, try to avoid overdressing and causing your face to sweat, as this will help maintain a lower temperature difference.

Wearing your goggles continuously throughout the day without placing them on your helmet can aid in reducing moisture accumulation.

To preserve your goggles' anti-fogging treatment, refrain from frequently wiping them with a cloth. It's similar to scratching a mosquito bite; the more you scratch, the itchier it becomes. Instead, allow them to air dry. Carrying an extra pair when hitting the slopes may not be feasible, but having replacement lenses is an excellent idea (refer to interchangeable lenses below).

Optical experts Warby Parker and Zeiss both offer spray-on treatments with numerous positive reviews, but these treatments will never match the original anti-fog coating, so handle your goggles with care and love. Here is a helpful article on How to Prevent Your Ski Goggles From Fogging.

Interchangeable Lenses

Anon's "M" collection boasts the most user-friendly lens changing system, providing a hassle-free method for switching lenses on the fly. Their magnetic lens system guarantees a secure fit, even during falls or off-piste adventures.

Other brands offer comparable systems that involve pressing a button or lever - while these may not be as convenient as Anon's approach, they tend to feel more secure. With such innovative features now accessible in snowboard gear technology, rapidly adjusting to varying light conditions has never been easier.

Visible Light Transmission (VLT)

When selecting snowboard goggles, it's crucial to consider VLT (visible light transmission). In general, a higher VLT percentage allows more light to pass through the lens, enhancing visibility during sunny days. You can choose between low or high-VLT options based on conditions and personal preferences.

Low-VLT lenses cater to bright conditions, while high-VLT lenses are ideal for low-light situations like nighttime or overcast weather. Some contemporary snowboard goggles feature adjustable tints and lenses that adapt to varying lighting environments. Familiarizing yourself with VLT ratings will help you quickly find the perfect pair.

Goggles on the market typically have VLTs ranging from 10% to 50%, where 10% is suitable for very sunny days and 50% for extremely cloudy days. Higher percentages also exist for night snowboarding. A higher VLT ratio is preferable for optimal visibility on cloudy days when the sun isn't a concern.

Each VLT category has a corresponding lens tint color. For low-VLT lenses, you'll find darker shades in the middle, along with purples, reds, and greens, while high-VLT lenses offer blues and yellows.

Lens Tint and Colors

VLT levels influence the tint and color of lenses, with brighter colors corresponding to higher VLT levels and darker colors to lower VLT levels. Additionally, the lens type, such as mirrored or photochromic, affects the goggles' appearance. While it's important to consider the look of your goggles, it's essential to be aware of the features, pros, and cons of different lens shapes and types for various weather conditions. In short, prioritize lens functionality and performance but also select goggles that appeal to you aesthetically.

Mirrored, Polarized, and Photochromic Lenses

Mirrored lenses help minimize glare reaching the eyes, which is particularly useful in bright outdoor settings. These lenses reflect a significant portion of incoming light rather than allowing it to pass through, reducing eye strain and enhancing visual clarity. Plus, mirrored lenses lend goggles a sleek and stylish appearance.

Polarized lenses serve a similar purpose but are more effective than mirrored lenses. They work by blocking vertical light reflected off surfaces like snow or water. Typically, polarized lenses are more expensive.

Photochromic lenses are eyeglass lenses that change color when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. In the absence of UV light, they are generally clear or slightly tinted, but darken when exposed to UV light.

Photochromic lenses offer unparalleled convenience, as their VLT adjusts automatically to different lighting conditions, saving skiers and snowboarders the trouble of changing lenses for bright or shaded areas. While budget options with photochromic lenses may not deliver the desired results, well-known, reputable brands are more likely to provide this feature effectively.

Lens Shape: Cylindrical, Spherical, or Toric

There are three primary lens shapes: cylindrical, spherical, and toric lenses.

Cylindrical lenses are curved around the vertical axis, making them a popular choice for entry-level snowboarders due to their affordability (lower manufacturing cost) and less bulky appearance.

Despite having some disadvantages compared to spherical lenses, such as reduced peripheral vision, minor distortion at the top/bottom edges, and increased glare, cylindrical lenses are becoming increasingly attractive options for all riders. Improved lens technology optics reduce these negative effects, making cylindrical goggles models an excellent choice even among mid-range and premium selections.

Spherical lenses offer a unique profile and a natural, superior field of view due to their ability to mimic the shape of one's eyeball (lenses are curved both vertically and horizontally). While many modern goggles now feature cylindrical designs, spherical lenses remain popular amongst premium models for this very reason. Additionally, the bubble-like profile looks very attractive when paired with a snowboard helmet.

The newest trend in goggles is the toric-style lens, which bridges the gap between cylindrical and spherical lenses. It features a less pronounced lens shape that still mimics your eyes for an appealing look, while providing optical performance on par with spherical lenses by minimizing distortion at the edges. As optics become increasingly sophisticated, distinguishing between models can be challenging. However, the toric lens offers more than just a sleek look - it minimizes distortion around the edges while delivering premium performance.

While it's easy to see the difference between cylindrical and spherical goggles, distinguishing between cylindrical and toric lenses can be more difficult. Here is a nice visual video explaining the differences:

Optical Quality: ChromaPop, Vivid, and Prizm

Optical quality is paramount, much like in a high-quality DSLR camera. Brands invest heavily in research and development of optical technologies, and the difference is apparent when looking through the lens, especially under challenging lighting conditions.

Oakley employs Prizm technology, Smith uses ChromaPop lenses, Giro features German Zeiss optics with Vivid technology, and Burton's Anon high-end goggles are equipped with Perceive lenses.

With top-notch lenses, you will experience crystal-clear, 4K-quality visuals, and your eyes will feel less fatigued. By the end of the day, your eyes won't feel irritated or sore. High-quality lenses can make a world of difference. For instance, I have a dry eye issue after my laser eye surgery, so having excellent lenses is crucial for my comfort.

OTG (Over The Glasses) Goggles

OTG snowboard goggles, short for "Over The Glasses," cater to those who wear prescription glasses. These goggles feature a wider and deeper frame to accommodate glasses comfortably without compressing them or causing discomfort. The frame includes notches on both sides for a more ergonomic fit with glasses.

Effective ventilation is crucial for OTG goggles, as wearing prescription glasses underneath can hinder airflow. Additionally, most glasses don't have anti-fog coatings, and the combination of two lens pairs can further impede vision. As a result, fog buildup, reduced airflow, and diminished visibility can make it challenging to see the slopes.

An alternative is wearing contact lenses, which is often the easiest and most effective solution. For those unable to wear contacts or snowboard with glasses under goggles, prescription inserts are available. SportRx, a leading eyewear solutions provider, offers a variety of prescription inserts to ensure airtight, comfortable goggles. These compact liners fit inside the lenses, allowing for optimal airflow and clear vision during your snowboarding adventures.

FAQ

What is VLT in snowboard goggles?

VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, measures the amount of light that can pass through a lens. A lower VLT indicates that less light passes through the lens, while a higher VLT means more light can pass through.

Refer to the VLT section for more information.

How can I prevent snowboard goggles from fogging?

• Avoid wiping the inner lens.
• Don't place your goggles on top of your helmet.
• Prevent overdressing and excessive sweating.
• Make sure the goggles are well-ventilated.
• Invest in easily changeable lenses and have a spare pair.
• Store lenses at room temperature.
• Avoid placing them on a heater in your room.
• Apply an anti-fog coating on older goggles.

How do I clean snowboard goggles?

First, wipe the exterior of the lens with a soft, dry cloth to remove dirt or debris. Do not touch the inside. Just don't.

If you absolutely must clean the inside, use mild soap, water, and a clean microfiber cloth, applying gently and lightly.

How should snowboard goggles fit?

Test the goggles with a helmet: snowboard goggles should fit comfortably over a snowboard helmet. Ensure a proper seal around the lens edges to avoid cold air and moisture. If the goggles are too large, they may slip down or feel too loose.

Check the strap fit: The adjustable strap should fit snugly around the head without causing discomfort or allowing the goggles to slip.

Ensure a comfortable and secure seal: The goggles should fit snugly and seal securely around the eyes without causing pressure points or discomfort, especially around the nose and helmet.

Is there a difference between ski goggles and snowboard goggles?

There is no difference between ski and snowboard goggles.

However, peripheral vision is more critical for snowboarders due to their typical 90-degree head position, so spherical lenses are recommended.

Is there a difference between men's and women's goggles?

Generally, ski and snowboard goggles are unisex, suitable for both men and women. However, some goggles are specifically designed for men or women, featuring different frame and lens shapes, sizes, and colors tailored to each gender's face shape or style preferences.

Remember that the choice between men's and women's goggles should be based on personal preference and fit rather than gender. The best goggles for an individual will depend on their fit, comfort, activity needs, and personal style.