Buying guide for Best anti-fog ski goggles
Anti-fog ski goggles ensure that you can see clearly when you're on the mountain thanks to a coating on the inside of the lens that prevents moisture buildup. The goggles come in a variety of shapes and styles, and they have lenses that offer different levels of protection from sunlight.
Cylindrical lenses are popular for their lower price and straightforward design, while spherical lenses generally offer a wider field of view and less distortion. Polarization and UV protection can protect your eyes from sunlight and reflected light.
When you look for a new pair of anti-fog ski goggles, consider your head shape, helmet style, and whether you will wear glasses.
How does fogging occur?
When moisture from your skin and breath comes into contact with a cold lens, the lens will fog if it’s not treated with an anti-fog coating. Proper airflow and a decent amount of space between your skin and the lens can also decrease the likelihood of moisture collecting on the lens. If your ski mask or neck warmer is tucked under your goggles, your breath will travel directly into your lens, causing your breath to fog up the lens.
Expert tip
Keep your ski goggles warm to avoid fogging. Keep them with the rest of your clothes in a warm room.
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Considerations
Anti-fog coating
The coating that prevents moisture from accumulating is hydrophobic. This means that it reduces surface tension, making it difficult for water to cling to the lens. It is also possible to spray an anti-fog solution on regular ski goggles, but many people find anti-fog ski goggles to be more effective.
Durability and comfort
The most delicate (and important) part of a pair of ski goggles is the lens, which can become scratched on the slope or in a gear bag. Lenses are typically made from polycarbonate, and they may have an anti-scratch coating on the outside of the lens.
The frame is usually made of a plastic-like polyurethane, which is flexible and difficult to break. This allows the frame to fit your helmet and face, to an extent.
Finding the right pair of ski goggles for you means looking for goggles appropriate for your head size and helmet. Another major factor in comfort level is the foam padding that rests against your face. With mid-range and higher-end goggles, the foam will have several layers of varying softness and density.
Cylindrical lenses vs. spherical lenses
Less-expensive anti-fog ski goggles may have cylindrical or “flat” lenses that curve in one direction. These lenses are more susceptible to glare and may be positioned closer to the face, resulting in more fog. In addition, they often have a smaller field of view and may have some distortion.
Spherical lenses are found in moderately priced to expensive lenses and tend to provide better peripheral vision, less glare, and less distortion. The round shape of the lens typically means it is farther from your face and therefore less likely to fog up.
Ventilation
When you think of skiing in frigid temperatures, ventilation may not be the first thing on your mind. However, ventilation is another key factor that helps prevent foggy lenses.
Most goggles have some ventilation along the top of the frame. Some may have additional ventilation at the top of the lenses or on the sides of the frame. The priciest ski goggles may even have ventilation fans.
Visible light transmission (VLT)
The VLT percentage of a pair of ski goggles indicates how much light is allowed to pass through the lens. A lower percentage means that less light is able to permeate the lens. Therefore, lenses with low VLT percentages are best for sunny days, while lenses with high VLT percentages (sometimes approaching 100%) are better for dusk or night skiing.
Over-the-glasses (OTG) designs
Not all anti-fog ski goggles are designed to fit comfortably over a pair of regular eyeglasses. Many products are specifically designated as OTG goggles, but it’s a good idea to read customer reviews to get an idea of how comfortably the goggles fit over glasses. Bear in mind that your glasses may fog up while your goggles remain free of moisture.
Expert tip
While you are skiing resist the temptation to wipe the inside lens of your goggles to remove condensation. Instead, let the fog disappear on its own by air drying them for a minute. This will help prevent scratching the lens.
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Features
Once you know what type of anti-fog goggles you are looking for, consider these additional features to improve your experience on the slopes.
Lens color
Your lens color should suit the conditions and brightness of the mountain.
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A dark brown or gray lens is the best choice for a bright or sunny day.
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Rose or reddish lenses work well in all conditions, so you won’t need to worry about swapping out lenses or goggles depending on the weather or time of day.
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Yellow lenses are the best option for low-light conditions, as they can bring out contrast and make it easier to see obstacles and snow patterns. Clear lenses also work well for night skiing.
Polarized, mirrored, UV-protecting, and photochromic lenses
For the best protection from sunlight and reflected light, consider going beyond a simple tinted lens.
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Polarized lenses reduce glare from the sun and snow, though they may also reduce visibility.
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Mirrored lenses reduce glare and can block light in the brightest conditions.
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UV-protecting lenses prevent UV light from entering and damaging your eyes. Almost all tinted goggles offer UV protection.
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Photochromic lenses tend to be more expensive, as they adjust their tint depending on the light level.
Dual-pane designs
If you want the best anti-fog protection, be sure to avoid single-pane lens designs. Dual-pane lenses create a pocket between the two lenses that keeps the inner lens warmer, reducing the chance of fog and condensation buildup.
Ease of changing lenses and additional lenses
If any part of your anti-fog goggles needs replacing, it will likely be the lens. Look for anti-fog ski goggles with easily removable and replaceable lenses. Some goggles may even include additional lenses for repairs or for skiing in different conditions.
Cases
Some anti-fog ski goggles include a protective case that helps the frame maintain its shape and keeps the lens from scratching while in your bag. A hard case is your best bet. If the goggles you select don’t include a case or bag, you may want to consider purchasing one separately.
Anti-fog ski goggle prices
Inexpensive
For $15 to $50, you can find an entry-level pair of anti-fog ski goggles that will probably have a cylindrical lens, often single-pane. These are a good option for beginners or children, but they may not be the most comfortable.
Mid-range
Goggles from $50 to $100 offer better UV protection and may be more flexible and durable. Some goggles in this range may include a case or bag. Lenses are generally dual-pane and spherical.
Expensive
For $100 to $250, you can get a quality pair of anti-fog ski goggles that will last you for years if cared for well. Additional accessories like extra lenses and a carrying case are common.
Caution
Glass cleaner will remove the anti-fog coating of lenses and should never be used as a cleanings solution for your ski goggles.
STAFF
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Tips
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When removing your goggles, avoid keeping them on your forehead, as they are likely to fog up quickly.
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Replace lenses carefully, avoiding contact with the inner lens in particular to prevent smudges and damage to the anti-fog coating.
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Try your new goggles on with your helmet before you climb on the lift to make sure the goggles fit comfortably.
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Avoid storing your goggles on your helmet, as they will be susceptible not only to scratches but also to warping of the frame and wearing out of the elastic in the strap.
FAQ
Q. How do I clean my anti-fog goggles?
A. The outside lens can be cleaned with a goggle cloth using a gentle wiping motion to avoid damaging the coating or mirroring. The inside lens should never be cleaned, if possible, as the anti-fog coating is easy to damage.
expert tip
To help prevent fogging, do not let your neck warmer or balaclava come in contact with the foam of your mask or under your glasses.
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Q. Why are my anti-fog goggles still fogging up?
A. The most common cause is clogged vents. Make sure your vents are clean, and clear of any debris so you can maintain airflow in your goggles.
Q. How effective are anti-fog sprays?
A. Anti-fog sprays can work well and are not very expensive. However, most well-made ski goggles will have an anti-fog coating. If your goggles do not, you may be better off upgrading to a new pair of goggles.
