Which ski goggles are best to choose? Ski goggles: how to choose. Goggles for alpine skiing. Rating of the best ski masks and goggles

It would be fair to say that ski goggles or a mask are as important a component of a skier’s (or snowboarder’s) equipment as his skis (board) with boots. It doesn't matter whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier, everyone needs ski goggles for any type of winter activity in the mountains. Glasses or a mask protect your eyes from ultraviolet rays. On high altitude their strength is significantly higher, especially if you take into account the reflection from the snow. And, of course, glasses for skiing Protect your eyes from falling snow and wind when you're flying downhill.

When choosing a mining ski goggles or masks, you will encounter a number of characteristics that affect comfort and safety. Most eye injuries from skiing high mountains associated with the lack of glasses (or a mask) or with a poor choice of them.

Ski goggles or a mask? In the English version, a distinction is made between ski glasses and sunglasses - ski glasses and sunglasses. Probably due to the peculiarities of the translation of the English word glasses - a ski mask is often called glasses. But in this material we will talk specifically about glasses (although many characteristics also apply to masks).

For skiing, it is advisable to buy sports sunglasses; not all urban models are suitable. Ski goggles fit better under a helmet and, like masks, come with interchangeable lenses. Let's look at the main characteristics sports glasses.

Ultraviolet radiation is the main reason to buy ski goggles. Therefore, we will start from this point and we will dwell on it in detail.

Ski goggles against UV radiation

Depending on the wavelength, UV rays are divided into three types - A, B and C. For us, only the first two are dangerous.

UV radiation B (range 280-315nm)

It has a relatively low intensity, but has a strong impact. It is those rays that, in small doses, provide us with a bronze tan, can cause burns to the cornea and conjunctiva of the eye. This can cause temporary loss of vision (“Snow Blindness”) and a number of other problems in the future. At high altitudes and in snowy conditions, the risk of getting a burn increases significantly.

UV radiation A (315-390m)

Initially less dangerous, however, rays of this type can penetrate deep into the eye and negatively affect the lens and retina. Long-term exposure to UV-A radiation can lead to, for example, cataracts and macular degeneration, which are the most common causes of age-related blindness.

The degree of exposure to UV rays depends on a number of conditions, including:

Height above sea level. In the mountains, ski goggles become not just a stylish accessory, but a necessary piece of equipment.

The duration of your stay in open space.

Times of Day. The intensity of radiation depends on the height of the sun above the horizon. Maximum level, as a rule, happens between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Snow-covered surfaces or expanses of water strongly reflect the sun's UV rays.

In cloudy weather, ski goggles are also necessary. Clouds are not an obstacle to the passage of UV rays, so their intensity does not decrease in cloudy weather.

Considering everything listed factors, it becomes clear that leisure In the mountains, in all respects, it requires the presence of high-quality ski goggles or other sports models with similar parameters.

Filters in ski goggles

Filter material in ski goggles

Despite the fact that glass is the most scratch-resistant and has the best optical transparency, it is not acceptable in sports; if dropped, such glasses can break and damage the eyes with fragments. Glass goggles are more acceptable in mountaineering, where impact resistance is less important. Lenses of almost all modern ski sunglasses made of impact-resistant plastic. Most of polycarbonate. It has good optical transparency and low weight. Polycarbonate is most often used in production ski masks.

More wearing masks high level used polymer NXT - polysilicate quasi-thermoset plastic. This material has extreme impact-resistant properties - such lenses are almost impossible to break. Ski goggles with NXT filters are distinguished by higher optical transparency than polycarbonate, which is as close as possible to glass, and in addition, it is resistant to low temperatures.

These materials absorb 100% of UV rays, providing excellent eye protection even with a clear filter.

Filter darkness level

Sunglasses manufacturers offer lenses for various conditions to varying degrees darkness. For consumers, this characteristic is indicated in accordance with the table below. As ski goggles we recommend using models with values S2 - S4(sometimes a marker is used cat - category). The brighter the sun in the mountains or the more sensitive your eyes are to light, the darker the glasses will suit you. An excellent solution for changeable weather and terrain will be photochromic lenses with variable degrees of darkening.

S 0 Extremely low level protection. Recommended for use in cloudy weather or in the evening, under artificial lighting for example.

S 1 The S1 filter is designed for riding in low light conditions, at dusk or in cloudy weather.

S 2 For riding in conditions of average solar activity. Cloudy weather and partly cloudy.

S 3 For high solar activity. In clear, sunny weather. They protect well from incident and reflected light.

S 4 For riding in conditions of very high solar activity. For example, in the highlands.

Filter color

The color of the filter can affect the perception of the real world. The most popular filters for ski goggles are yellow-orange, bronze and black.

Black lenses and shades of gray - The most common tinted lenses. They block glare, reflect bright light and sun without distorting color perception. They are uncomfortable in cloudy weather and artificial light.

Bronze/amber/pink- provide excellent contrast on a white background, improving the perception of snowy terrain with shadow areas on a mountain slope. Ski goggles with such a filter will help you distinguish surface unevenness. A filter with a brownish tint is good for bright sunny conditions, while lighter tones are good for low light conditions as they block blue light, dominant in cloudy weather.

Yellow/Orange/Golden colors cut off the blue part of the spectrum to increase contrast and increase the depth of perception in different lighting conditions, making shaded areas of the slope better visible. Ski goggles with such a filter increase contrast and provide maximum clarity in low and “flat” lighting (cloudy, poor visibility).

Photochrome

The weather in the mountains is very changeable, especially with changes in altitude. At the top of the mountain the sun may be shining brightly, but on the way down you will find yourself in a cloud. If you want to buy ski goggles for all occasions, we recommend paying attention to goggles with a variable filter - photochromic. People call them chameleons. Depending on the light intensity, ski goggles change the degree of darkness, providing the eyes with a comfortable level of visibility in different conditions. Photochromic ski masks have long been very popular.

Polarized ski goggles

Polarized lenses protect your eyes from sunlight reflected from the snow. Acting as a vertical light filter, such lenses are capable of increasing the level of clarity and contrast of the picture much more effectively than simple mirror lenses, or in other words, the presence of a polarizing filter improves the optical component of the perception of reality. Typically, polarizing filters have dark shades and are not very good in the afternoon when long shadows appear on the snow, but during the day they are unbeatable. Polarized ski goggles are ideal for winter sports, reducing eye fatigue. Polarized lenses can absorb up to 98% of glare reflected from snow or water surfaces.

Polarized glasses are also very popular among lovers of water recreation. These same glasses will become a favorite accessory in the car; the glare of light reflected from the wet road and reducing the contrast can seriously bother the driver.

polarized ski goggles increase contrast

Mirrored ski goggles

The mirror coating of the lens allows it to reflect rather than block visible light. It also reduces the amount of glare reflected from the snow surface. Dark lenses combined with a mirror coating provide maximum protection against sun rays.

Ski goggle frames

Eyeglass frames are most often made of plastic, nylon or metal alloys. The frame of sports glasses should be as durable, lightweight and non-slip as possible. The most suitable for sports models are plastic and nylon, lightweight and flexible materials that make the frame more streamlined for a tight fit to the face. Frames made of synthetic materials in ski goggles practically do not break, returning to their original position after deformation. Plastic ski goggles can have a significantly larger viewing area, while providing lateral protection from glare and incident light.

Metal frames are initially harder, can become brittle in the cold, are less amenable to molding, and therefore have design limitations.

Ideally, your ski goggles should have a lightweight frame; they will provide greater comfort during long-term use during the day.

The ends of the arms of ski goggles should be made of soft plastic or rubber. The shape of the frame is as anatomical as possible, the arms are curved for better fixation on the head. Often sports goggles include the possibility of using an elastic strap instead of the temples or together, passing behind the athlete's head, they guarantee a constant position even during freestyle.

Pay attention to the fit; ski goggles, in addition to protection from sun rays, also provide protection from wind, which is especially important if you wear contact lenses. The tighter the goggles fit on your face, the better the side protection, the more comfortable you will be riding. Some models of sports glasses include additional removable elements that are placed on the temples.

All people have different faces, forehead height, width and length of the bridge of the nose. It is possible that glasses from one manufacturer will not suit you, but from another they will fit like a glove. Try it on different models to make sure your ski goggles fit you optimally.

Why are cheap ski goggles bad and even dangerous?

How well do cheap ski goggles protect against ultraviolet radiation? You should always remember that for the human eye, ultraviolet radiation is only a damaging factor. Often, it is much better to be without glasses at all than to use bad optics. In bright sunshine, your pupils adapt, narrowing and protecting the retina from UV rays; however, covered with dark glasses, the pupils, on the contrary, dilate. Because of this, the risk of getting a retinal burn in the bright mountain sun increases.

In the event of a serious fall, glasses made of cheap plastic can break and injure your eyes. The same can happen with the frame.

It is worth noting that all ski goggles from leading manufacturers provide almost 100% protection against UV rays. However, if you decide to buy ski goggles from an unknown manufacturer at a low price, be sure to check this option.

A ski mask (goggles) is an absolutely necessary piece of equipment for a skier. And that's why:

The mask provides eye protection from exposure to ultraviolet rays and bright sun.
A ski mask or snowboard mask increases vision clarity. This can be especially true in foggy (cloudy) conditions, when the edge of the slope is practically invisible. On the contrary, on a bright sunny day, a dark or mirror filter will protect your eyes from the blinding sun. A polarizing filter does an excellent job of neutralizing glare. At ISPO 2014, Oakley also introduced an alternative solution, The Oakley Prizm Solution. The lens of these ski goggles cuts off part of the color spectrum, so the snow no longer appears as a solid white field, you see a clear relief.
You can buy a ski mask to protect your eyes from accidental blows from branches and snow dust from the skier in front. During snowfall, skiing without a mask is extremely difficult. A ski mask will also protect your face from the icy crust during a fall.

How to choose a ski mask?

If you're choosing your first ski mask, your first question should be "where will I ski?" The answer to this question determines which filter will be optimal. Find out which lenses for ski masks are suitable for certain conditions below. Having decided on the filter, we move on to choosing models. Sport-Marathon offers only the best ski goggles, so the question of which brand is better is somewhat incorrect in our case. It's better what suits you. With all the wealth of choice, buying a mask for alpine skiing or a mask for snowboarding is not so easy. The shape and size of ski masks can vary significantly.

Let's give some tips:

You need to try on your ski mask together with your helmet. The shape of your specific ski or snowboard mask may not match your helmet model. The smaller the gap between the frame of the mask and the edge of the helmet, the lower the risk of frostbite and discomfort.
The ski mask should fit tightly to the face, without gaps. Otherwise, ski goggles will not fully protect your eyes from the wind. The nose piece of the mask should not be too low.
the visibility in the horizontal plane of a ski mask or snowboard mask should be sufficient to control your route.
It is recommended for athletes to buy ski goggles with good vertical visibility.
The wider the straps of a ski mask or snowboard mask, the better the fixation on the helmet (hat). Silicone strips on the straps ensure reliable fixation of the mask on the helmet.
Additional ventilation holes on the lenses reduce the likelihood of the mask fogging.
The greater the distance between the lens and the face, the more protection from possible impacts the mask can provide.
To buy a ski mask adapted for optical glasses, look at models with the abbreviation OTG in their names. Read more about ski masks for goggles in our Blog.
The cost of the mask is affected by the quality of the lens; lower quality glasses are more easily scratched and allow more distortion. “Sport-Marathon” offers to buy a snowboard mask or a mountain ski mask from Oakley, Dragon, Uvex, as well as other world brands.

Children's ski goggles are selected in the same way as adults. The mask needs to be tried on, so before you buy ski goggles, take your child to the store.

What kind of masks are there?

Fundamentally, all masks differ in shape (viewing area) and lenses. If everything is more or less clear with the shape, the main thing is that the mask fits well and matches the helmet, then with lenses everything is much more complicated.

Filters are made differently depending on their purpose and weather conditions.
The color of the filter affects the perception of the surrounding world. Light filters in ski and snowboard masks are good in cloudy, cloudy weather or for evening skiing. It can be a yellow, orange, white, blue, pink, green filter. Each of them has its own peculiarity in reflecting reality. Ultimately, it is everyone's personal choice. Masks designed for cloudy weather are marked cat 0, cat 1 or S0, S1.
Mirror and black filters are great for a bright sunny day, but in the evening and in cloudy weather they will be very uncomfortable. Masks for riding in bright sunny weather are marked cat 3, cat 4 or S3, S4.
Photochromic lenses, modulators with changes in light intensity, or simply “chameleons”, can solve the problem of choosing a lens. These ski goggles can be bought by those who spend the whole day on the mountain. The lenses will adapt to the brightness of the sun throughout the day, and you will not need to monitor the weather forecast when deciding which mask to take today.
Lenses are cylindrical and toric (spherical). Spherical lenses provide less distortion, but are more expensive because they have a completely different production technology.
All masks have double lenses with the exception of models for professional athletes.

Selecting filters by weather

First of all, all filters have the main indicator - light transmission. It shows what percentage of sunlight the mask allows through. So from the lightest to the darkest, this figure can be from 82% to 2%. Those. a mask for cloudy weather allows 50-80% of sunlight to pass through. Depending on this parameter, filters are divided into categories S0 – S4. You can skip the issue of protection against ultraviolet radiation; today all ski masks are made with maximum UV protection.

Bright sunny day. The Alpine sun is significantly different from the Moscow region. In bright sunny weather in the mountains, you need a mask with darkening filters of any color. A great option is a mirror filter. Such masks are ideal for the Alpine mountains, and besides, they look chic.
It's a nasty day. Despite the clouds, ultraviolet radiation in the mountains still affects the eyes, so a ski mask is a must. Select filters of categories up to S2. Black and mirror, unfortunately, are no longer suitable. Great discomfort in cloudy weather is caused by decreased visual contrast. The blue color, which predominates in the spectrum, hides the shadows of irregularities. This way you will feel the change in terrain with your feet rather than see it. If you prefer to ski before the lifts close, you might know this feeling. Choose yellow, orange or gold lenses - they limit the blue spectrum, making the relief more readable.
Snowfall, wind, cloudiness. In such weather, the mask protects rather from mechanical impact on the eyes. Any light masks, including transparent ones, will do.

Lens color

Yellow/orange/gold – limits the blue component of the color spectrum, increasing contrast and increasing the depth of perception. Ideal for flat and low light conditions.
Pink lenses are especially good in low light conditions. This color best emphasizes the volume of objects, improves color rendering, and makes shadows and contours more contrasting.
Green, blue and silver lenses enhance color rendering and reduce contrast in bright sunshine.
Mirrored and black lenses reflect bright light and UV rays, allowing you to ride with your eyes wide open.
Gray, platinum filter - increases depth perception on the sunniest days, right up to cloudy weather.
Transparent - for riding in dark time days or in extremely low visibility conditions. In general, a mask with a clear lens protects the eyes more from mechanical influences– snow, wind, tree branches.

Ski masks – online store

If you are not able to come to the store on Saikina, 4 in person or you know exactly what kind of ski goggles you need, the Sport-Marathon online store can organize delivery to anywhere in Russia. Our consultants will help you choose the appropriate model.

Discounts and sales

Want to save money? Choose a snowboard mask or a ski mask; sales happen at the end of each season or on special offer days. The main thing is not to miss the moment, the most interesting models end first!

Ski goggles are an important piece of equipment for skiing and snowboarding. They can make or break your time on the mountainsides, as excellent visibility in such conditions is key. Others important factors The main considerations in eyewear are comfort, breathability, durability and, of course, style.

The range of offers from manufacturers of ski masks and goggles is huge. From quick-change lenses to innovative technologies that adapt to different lighting conditions. There are glasses that have 2-3 lenses sandwiched together to prevent fogging, glasses with UV protection and anti-reflective coating. Photochromic lenses, “chameleons”, masks with replaceable filters and glasses with polarized glass.

Other than color and style, there is no significant difference between the men's and women's models. The same can be said about masks and goggles designed for snowboarders or skiers. Although there is an opinion that for people who snowboard, the mask should have a greater angular view. And of course, men's models are available in large sizes.

Criteria for choosing glasses for alpine skiing and snowboarding

The choice of glasses for skiing depends on several factors, including:

Lens shape. There are only two types of lenses: cylindrical and spherical. Cylindrical lenses are curved horizontally across the face and are the most common type of glasses. Spherical lenses are curved not only horizontally, but also vertically, from the forehead to the nose. You can spot them right away because they have a “bubbly” appearance.
Peripheral vision. The wider the mask, the better its side viewing angle. This is important to prevent collisions, which are especially common when merging multiple tracks.
Blinding, harsh light and distortion. The best ski goggles have special coatings that can reduce glare caused by sunlight reflecting off snow. Distortion is caused by imperfect lens quality. It should be noted that spherical lenses reduce distortion due to their shape.
Anti-haze. As a general rule, the further the face shield is from the face, the less fogging there will be. The “fogginess” can be reduced by the presence of additional lenses, so the inner glass is close to the temperature that the body itself has, which eliminates the formation of condensation. The extra lenses function as insulation in the same way as double glazing in windows, providing better insulation.
Replaceable lenses. A great feature, you can carry an extra set in your pocket to be ready for any lighting conditions. Weather conditions on the slopes change quickly and with a feature like this you can quickly change your lens.

Video about the rules for choosing a ski mask:

General selection rules for colored lenses (filter)

There are ski masks with photochromic lenses“chameleons” that adapt to the light intensity; the filter darkens or brightens depending on the brightness of the sun. This is an excellent purchase for those who often ski in different conditions. For other points the following rules apply:

Yellow, gold or amber glasses filter out blue light and highlight shadows in the snow.
Pink or light copper lenses are designed for light, bright days.
Dark copper, dark brown, dark green and dark gray masks are used on very bright days.
The mirror (“flash”) coating enhances the effect of tinted lenses. They reflect sunlight. They are great for sunny days.
Clear lenses are used for night skiing.

Important! Using polarized lenses reduces glare and protects your eyes from UVA and UVB rays.

Review of manufacturers

Among the brands that produce truly high-quality ski goggles, there are not so many companies that can be distinguished. Other manufacturers strive for perfection of models, but, according to customer reviews, the products are not yet up to the ideal.

Smith Optics. Smith Optical has been making ski goggles for over 50 years and were the first to create double-pane goggles with a sealed thermal lens. Dr. Bob Smith is an orthodontist and skier. I experienced the “skiing problems” myself, got tired of foggy glasses and, as a result, created the world’s first glasses with double glass. Smith Optics is not the latest in a long line of quality ski goggles. But the products of this brand are an excellent option for any skier or snowboarder, regardless of level and ability. These glasses are durable and comfortable, and their lenses combine both anti-glare and anti-fog qualities.
Oakley. The brand was founded by James Jannard in 1975 in his garage with an initial investment of $300. In 1980, Jannard released a glasses model called the O-Frame with the Oakley logo featured on the strap. Their last and best offer today are O2 XL glasses. These glasses have a unique design that gives excellent visibility, especially in side vision, allowing peripheral vision to clearly see people and objects. These goggles have a triple layer of polar fleece lining that will continue to function even after a full day on the slopes. They will still remain comfortable and impeccable. Those who wear Everyday life goggles will appreciate the frame cutouts that allow them to be worn comfortably, unlike most other ski masks and goggles. They are great for any ski helmet.
Dragon. Firm American origin, engaged in the production of protective glasses and masks for people who love extreme sports. The company was founded in Southern California (USA) in 1993 and has its own production base. The brand produces premium ski goggles and masks, as well as sportswear and accessories. Ski sunglasses from this manufacturer combine bright design and the latest scientific developments.

Rating of the best ski masks and goggles

The analysis of the models of the best ski masks was carried out in accordance with the preferences of customers, their reviews of the product and the average price of the product. But our respondents do not ski professionally, so their choice is not based on the high sporting qualities of the models, but rather on convenience, comfort and price, which does not exceed more than 10,000 rubles.

Oakley A-FRAME 2.0 FW MASK

Price: from 9900 rubles

Triple fog protection and excellent air exchange distinguish this model from many similar products. The F3 Anti-fog coating and double lenses with an air layer will prevent the mask from fogging up even in severe weather changes. The optics are highly accurate, and the ultraviolet filter has a 100% protection rate.

Oakley A-FRAME 2.0 FW MASK

Advantages:

Durable anti-fog coating;
Microfleece has 3 layers and perfectly absorbs moisture;
Polaric Ellipsoid lenses are ANSI Z87.1 quality standard.

Flaws:

High price.

Oakley O2 Xm mask black

Price: from 7890 rubles.

The model has a medium size and a cylindrical lens with sufficient visibility, and is distinguished by its streamlined geometry. The frame is able to adapt to the shape of the face even at very low temperatures.

Oakley O2 Xm mask black

Advantages:

The model can be combined with glasses for people with poor vision;
Triple fleece lining guarantees moisture absorption;
Excellent UV protection.

Flaws:

Among the shortcomings, one can highlight the female comment about the color of the model.

МSmith Knowledge OTG

Price: from 7048 rubles.

The lens of the model is a universal option for use in any weather. Thanks to the light transmittance of 35%, you can ride with a mask on both cloudy and sunny days. The face frame is large in size, which is suitable for men and ensures good compatibility with the helmet.

МSmith Knowledge OTG

Advantages:

The model has a QuickFit strap with an adjustable buckle system;
Ventilation has an anti-fog effect;
Replaceable lenses have been created for the model;
The mask is compatible with glasses for people with poor vision.

Flaws:

The Smith Optics brand is poorly represented on the Russian market and choosing the right model is almost impossible.

MASK Dragon Rogue FW17

Price: from 5900 rubles.

The product is durable and has a spherical lens to ensure general view without distortion. The strap fastenings are flexible, allowing the mask to be easily combined with the helmet. Three layers of foam and a microfleece cover provide a soft fit to the skin, and the Super Anti-Fog coating will prevent the product from fogging.

MASK Dragon Rogue FW17

Advantages:

Protection against active ultraviolet radiation is 100%;
Polyurethane frame;
Spherical lenses have correct optics.

Flaws:

The mask is available only in medium size and is suitable as a women's version.

MASK Dragon DXS FW16

Price: from 3190 rubles.

Double cylindrical lenses with anti-fog coating. In principle, the functionality of the product differs little from the Dragon Rogue FW17, the only difference is the price and dimensions. Here the size is even smaller, so the model can serve not only women, but also teenagers.

MASK Dragon DXS FW16

Advantages:

The strap is adjustable;
The model is helmet compatible;
Polyurethane frame.

Flaws:

Model size;
General design.

Other models have similar qualities, but at a higher price. Therefore, if you do not want to overpay for a “brand”, then you can choose this choice. But it is worth remembering that the survey was conducted among people who do not practice alpine skiing as a regular pastime. This is more of a choice for beginner athletes, but professionals or experts should pay attention to more “famous” brands.

Which ski mask did you like?

Poll Options are limited because JavaScript is disabled in your browser.

Oakley A-FRAME 2.0 FW 44%, 28 votes

МSmith Knowledge OTG 28%, 18 votes

06.10.2017

Errors in selection

Making a mistake when choosing ski equipment, means wasting money and vacation time. To avoid mistakes, you should listen to the following tips:

When buying a ski mask, focus your vision on one object and turn your head in different directions. If the object disappears from the field of view, such a mask is unlikely to provide a good view on the slope.
The feeling of discomfort will never go away. Therefore, if there is even the slightest inconvenience, it is better to change the model for another mask.
The nose opening should allow free breathing without blocking parts of the nasal cavity.
A strap of good length is the key to correct adjustment of the model on the helmet, and its width is responsible for a tighter fit to the head. When trying on a mask, it is better to try it on the helmet directly.
The mask should not slip, fly off, rub or press. If at least one of these qualities is present during fitting, it is better to look for another model.
Colliding with a tree, rock or skier is a common accident that can sometimes be directly related to poor visibility caused by the wrong choice of ski mask. Using a cheap pair of goggles can lead to loss of coordination on the ski track or track, and as a result there is a danger of not seeing obstacles in time. This is one of the leading causes of injuries and accidents. It's hard to overstate how important good visibility is on snowy slopes.

Equipment care

Ski equipment is expensive and is used in various conditions. Therefore, caring for it is a prerequisite for safe skating. Ski masks require attention even more than regular glasses with diopters, and the following rules should be followed:

Never wipe the lens from the inside. This can erase the protective layer that works against fogging.
Store the mask only in a special bag. Usually it comes with the product.
Drying glasses is carried out only in natural conditions away from heaters.
When skating, do not raise the mask to your forehead to avoid sweat getting on the inside.
Transportation of equipment must avoid impacts or contact with cutting objects.
At the right conditions storage and care, the ski mask will serve for a long time and will not cause discomfort to its owner.

Finally, a useful video on how to replace the lens in a ski mask:

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Goggles are a necessary attribute for skiers and snowboarders. Many people choose them by appearance. This is not to say that this approach is wrong: the internal contents of glasses in the same price category are the same. For this reason, it makes little sense to bother studying polarization coefficients, light refraction features, light filters and similar optical complexities. However, you need to know the main points when choosing this piece of ski equipment.

Glasses or mask?

Some ski and snowboarding equipment manufacturers consider goggles and masks to be different product categories. Those related to ski goggles look similar to regular sunglasses. Some even have temples instead of elastic.

They are not very functional:

do not provide a complete fit to the face;
they let snow through from above and light from all sides;
limit lateral visibility;
often do not have stable fixation.

At the same time, they have anti-reflective, anti-fog, anti-ultraviolet coatings, which makes them stand out in separate species goggles for skiers.

Most people who like to appear snowboarding and skiing use larger goggles, which are classified by manufacturers as masks.

They fit snugly to the face and have important advantages:

do not allow wind or bright light to pass through at all;
protect from snow and other large and small particles;
can be worn over diopter glasses or equipped with special diopter glasses.

Since masks are similar in form and functionality to goggles, skiers usually do not separate these categories and classify everything as goggles. IN English language this category is designated as ski goggles.

Focus on price

If you want to know how to choose ski goggles and what to focus on first, then the most reliable criterion will be their cost. The cost of glasses ranges from $30 to $150.

One of the main requirements for specialized glasses is strength. While skiing, we can fall, hit a branch, crash into a tree, collide with other skiers/snowboarders, etc. Glasses in such cases create an additional health hazard, because... may break and injure your eyes and head. Based on these considerations, ski goggles are made, like regular ones, from plastic, but with the addition of layers of carbon fiber or carbon fiber. This material is the result of high-tech production, which involves the application of mesh layers of carbon threads at a certain angle to each other. Its tensile strength surpasses even steel.

The second advantage of carbon fiber is its lightness: the same as that of ordinary plastic. At the same time, carbon is a fantastically expensive material. Therefore, it is used as a “reinforcing” component, adding to the main component. The more carbon threads in the plastic, the more expensive glasses, and the stronger they are. Not only the base is made of polycarbonate, but also the lenses of the mask themselves.

Here are some tips for choosing glasses based on price:

If you are just starting to ride, you should rather opt for entry-level goggles.
This item is subject to wear and scratches. It will be good if you use it for 3-4 seasons. After riding for several seasons, you will be able to better understand what you need without overpaying.
In the case of ski goggles, the general rule applies: functionality and comfort increase in proportion to the price. Expensive models fit well, have better ventilation, and a more interesting design. But all this is relevant only if you have increased requirements and want to pay more. Often you won’t notice a difference between premium and mid-priced models.
Keep in mind that famous brand– this is an additional expense. With equal characteristics, for example, Salice glasses (Italy) will cost 2-3 times cheaper than Adidas. But the latter will, of course, look cooler.
The viewing angle of all ski masks is approximately the same and does not determine the price (as, for example, this is typical for underwater masks).

Lenses are the main element of glasses

If we want to know how to choose glasses for snowboarding or skiing, we must dwell in detail on the functional features of the lenses. All modern lenses offer UV protection and anti-fog coating as standard. Therefore, we will not touch on these issues. Let's consider such parameters as color, curvature and diopter of lenses.

Lens color

When choosing glasses for skiing, you probably noticed that they have multi-colored lenses. This is not a tribute to fashion or a desire to stand out, but an important functional element. Multicolor is achieved by applying various layers that optimize the image received by the eye, eliminating unnecessary tones and highlights.

Since dimming the brightness of snow and sun is of fundamental importance for a skier, the most important indicator is the visible light transmittance (VLT). This parameter is indicated as a percentage. How more value, the more light the glasses let in.

The lightest lenses have a VLT rating of 99%. He says that these glasses should be worn in the evening or on very cloudy days.
Yellow, amber lenses filter out Blue colour. Thanks to this, the image received by the eye becomes clear, shadows are accentuated. They are more suitable for dim days, but are considered universal because they can be used in any weather.
Red lens tints are even more suitable for cloudy days than yellow ones. They give a sharp image.
Gray lenses do not change the color ratio. In them you will see exactly the real picture, but with a reduced luminous flux in accordance with the VLT parameter.
Lenses of dark colors - brown, bronze - improve contrast and at the same time remove excess light. Comfortable in bright weather.
Mirror reflective lenses have the lowest VLT. This means that they transmit little light. They are only good for sunny days and absolutely unsuitable for cloudy and cloudy days.

Keep in mind that yellow-red lenses are the most versatile. They will be fine both at dusk and in very sunny weather. While dark and mirror lenses do not allow you to see well in medium and low light conditions.

Also pay attention to the presence of a polarizing (anti-reflective) layer on the lenses. Such lenses dampen reflections from glare surfaces, which is considered the ideal quality of any optics. However, it should be borne in mind that this property leads to a deterioration in the ability to distinguish soft snow from ice. Anti-reflective coating is not appropriate if you will be skiing on slopes with unpredictable snow quality. In addition to lenses installed directly into the glasses, many models provide the ability to change lenses to ones more suitable for current skiing conditions.

Lens curvature

In accordance with the curvature parameter, lenses are divided into flat (or cylindrical) and spherical.

“Flat” lenses have only a horizontal bend. As a result, the image may be distorted along vertical edges. This is especially true for cheap models. Otherwise they are quite good.

Spherical - have both horizontal and vertical curvature. They are slightly better than flat ones, but also, accordingly, more expensive.

Diopter lenses

Some manufacturers of ski masks (for example, Adidas) additionally offer to purchase lenses with diopters and a special clip for fixing them on inside frames. Sometimes it is suggested to replace conventional lenses with lenses with diopters.

Compatible with glasses and helmets

If you wear glasses for vision correction, then a more convenient and budget option would be to purchase one of the OTG type ski masks. They are specially designed to fit over regular prescription glasses.

But keep in mind:

Corrective glasses often fog up under a ski mask, and no anti-fog agents help;
In the event of a fall or other misfortune, corrective glasses may crack - there have been cases when people were injured in such cases.

Advice: Wear contact lenses while skiing. Most ski goggles are compatible with helmets. But everything must be tried on.

Rubber

When considering the question of how to choose ski goggles, you need to mention their weak point. These are not lenses or frames, but elastic bands. It is the fixing device that most often fails, simply stretching. Therefore, when choosing snowboard or ski goggles, pay attention to the elasticity and softness of the elastic band. The better it stretches, the faster it will stop performing its function.

Ski goggles are products that will provide increased clarity and protect your eyes from accidental impacts from branches, as well as the sun and simply unfavorable natural conditions. When riding in bright sunny weather, the lenses must cut off at least 95% of ultraviolet rays. Modern manufacturers offer wide choose masks for every taste, which differ not only in design and color, but also in size, shape and degree of protection. For a specific case, you should choose a specific model in accordance with certain parameters.

Taking into account the filter color

Ski goggles should be selected in accordance with the likely weather, terrain and skiing characteristics. For different weather conditions, special lenses are selected that provide visibility in different conditions. The main thing is to choose the optimal filter, the shades of which will convey colors as efficiently as possible, protecting your eyes and preventing their fatigue. The more light that is blocked by the glasses, the less damage will be done to the eyes. In low light conditions, glasses should be of maximum capacity.

The main thing is to sit

Ski goggles should not only look beautiful, but also fit perfectly on your face. They should fit tightly to the skin so that the wind does not blow and the eyes do not water. There should also be no pressure on the cheekbones or pinched nose. That is why you should choose models that have a comfortable frame. To ensure a comfortable fit and reduce the risk of injury, the frame is supplemented with multi-layer anti-allergenic foam. It does not cause irritation to the skin, and at the same time serves as reliable protection from snow and wind.

The seat, that is, the slot for the nose, must correspond to the width of the nose. The main thing is that ski goggles do not make breathing difficult. The strap should be adjustable without putting pressure on your head or dangling around it. If you also wear a helmet, then you need to try on glasses with it.

Visibility - wide, ventilation - high quality

The actual parameter that plays a role when choosing glasses is the viewing angle, including the peripheral one. To choose the right glasses, you need to perform a series of simple movements: put on a mask, place your palms at eye level on the sides of your head. We look in front of us - if you can see your palms with your peripheral vision, then your visibility is sufficient. The peripheral viewing angle should be at least 120 0 - the most comfortable ski goggles meet this parameter.

How to choose a model in terms of its ventilation? This feature prevents the glass from fogging up due to temperature differences. To avoid the formation of moisture, a special composition is applied to the lenses. Sometimes double lenses are installed, complemented by an air gap between them. Another way to avoid the formation of condensation and fogging is special openings that are equipped with mini fans.

If an athlete's vision is impaired, special ski goggles are suitable for him. How to choose? Pay attention to diopter lenses - they are marked with the abbreviation OTG. These glasses either increase the internal volume or have an adapter for special lenses.

Types of lenses and materials

There are several types of lenses in shape: spherical, arc-shaped and straight. The latter are no longer produced, arc-shaped lenses are the cheapest, but distort the view, and the most popular are spherical lenses, which have a good optical view. Most often, lenses are made of polycarbonate, which attracts attention with its elasticity and strength, as well as resistance to impacts.

It is worth remembering that when changing height while skating under the influence of differences in atmospheric pressure, the glasses may become deformed. In order to avoid this, manufacturers use a special “porex filter” membrane - it equalizes the pressure. Modern ski goggles are classified according to their sun protection index.

Masks-glasses: what are the features?

Glasses for active winter sports must be chosen correctly, especially if you have vision problems. There are a number of requirements according to which you should choose glasses:

The presence of an anti-fog coating inside the mask.
Availability of replaceable lenses.
UV protection.
Flexible frames made of polymer materials that allow you to adapt to individual facial features while maintaining flexibility even at extremely low temperatures.
Compatibility with helmets: ski goggles must be chosen in combination with this attribute.

UVEX glasses

The products of this brand are known to many fans active species sports and is characterized by a combination of a high level of safety and excellent quality. Products are manufactured in Germany using modern equipment that meets international standards. The company offers a wide selection of sunglasses that will please even the most demanding customer. Uvex ski goggles have decentered lenses that provide clear, distortion-free vision.

To create lenses, polycarbonate is used, which can withstand high and low temperatures. A special coating is used to protect the front side of the lenses from scratches. The lens material does an excellent job of filtering out ultraviolet rays. The models implement the following technologies:

built-in filters providing 100% protection against UV radiation;
automatic lens tinting depending on lighting conditions;
anti-fog coating;
protection from glare and reflections;
ease of care and cleaning;
Innovative magnetic system that allows you to quickly change lenses.

Salice glasses

Salice ski goggles are produced by a popular Italian brand that focuses on creating high-quality products for athletes. The models attract attention with a frame made of chrome-plated plastic, the function of replacing the temples with an elastic band, a removable internal silicone frame, and an additional nose pad. Ski goggles of this brand are presented in a wide variety of models and an equally wide range of prices and prints. You can easily choose glasses and masks that will allow you to be stylish even in a sporty look.

Oakley

Oakley ski goggles offer a wide selection of models to suit every taste, equipped only with modern and advanced technologies. The glasses have triple glass protection to prevent fogging. In addition, there is a special antifog coating on the inside of the lens. Special double lenses are an opportunity to reduce fogging, because there is an air barrier between them. As a result, Oakley glasses are 100% protected from sun rays and impacts, the reliable urethane from which the glasses are made is plastic, so they will fit perfectly on your eyes. A special three-layer fleece absorbs all moisture, so the process of playing sports will give you only pleasure.

The company also specially developed lenses. Oakley's new lens features superior clarity and terrain-reading capabilities, and this technology is being implemented in all of the brand's masks and glasses. The company also offers goggle masks that can change the filter depending on the weather. Special photochromic filters ensure that the lenses change the degree of darkness depending on the specific situation.

You should choose glasses for skiing correctly, taking into account both the features and conditions of their use, and your own feelings and preferences in terms of color, design and shape. Modern manufacturers give you the opportunity to choose the perfect models so that your look, even in sportswear, is stylish and bright. But experts advise: do not choose cheap glasses. And take care of the health of your eyes, give preference to products made from quality materials. This is the only way you will choose a model that will meet your requirements.