Helmet mask of a skier. How to choose ski goggles or a mask. Which ski mask did you like?

Correctly chosen equipment for a ski resort is the key to a pleasant and comfortable active holiday. Glasses play a very minor role. The glare of light reflected from the snow can be so harsh and bright that it can turn skiing into agony. Snow and wind also cause a lot of inconvenience, which can end ski trips early.

You need to select glasses individually, based on:

possible weather conditions,
desired service life,
selected time of day for riding,
own preferences.

It is important that the glasses have 100% protection from ultraviolet rays - this is, first of all, your health. Let's look at the top 10 mining ratings ski goggles.

The American manufacturer has long established itself in the market for the sale of ski equipment, in particular goggles. The company's specialists constantly surprise sports fans and athletes with new designs and additional functions. Availability interchangeable lenses allows you to provide maximum comfort in any weather conditions. Double lenses of the models and their treatment with antifog reduce fogging of the glass.

Gorno ski goggles Oakley

Optical lenses produced by Oakley are popular not only among professional athletes, but are also widely used in the military and space industries. Additional lenses can be purchased without the slightest difficulty, as they fit any model of this brand.

The main advantages are:

Possibility of replacing the filter as operating conditions change.
The use of high-quality material allows us to ensure perfect fit and compatibility with .
Wide view, thanks to spherical lenses.
Using a 3-layer fleece seal.

Among all the advantages of this brand, perhaps one can be noted possible disadvantage- This individual feature, lens intolerance.

You can buy Oakley ski goggles at price range from 6 to 10 thousand rubles.

Ski goggles (masks) Salice

If your goal is not only to wear high-quality, but also stylish glasses, the best assortment is presented by the Italian manufacturer Salice. All details are thought out in such a way as to make it as comfortable and beautiful as possible.

Ski goggles Salice

Main advantages:

The design of the frame allows you to change the temples to elastic bands.
The inside of the frame is covered with a double layer of velvet, which provides good shock absorption and increases comfort.
Double filter and special anti-glare coating.

Flaws: Polarized lenses are not suitable for everyone due to individual eye sensitivity.

The price ranges from 3–6 thousand rubles.

Ski goggles (masks) Uvex

The production of glasses for the ski resort brand Uvex is carried out in Germany. The main goal is to provide professional athletes and simply outdoor enthusiasts with safe equipment parts.

Ski goggles Uvex

Advantages:

The ability of lenses to create the appearance of space with a clear relief without distortion.
Good tolerance to large temperature fluctuations.
The presence of a special coating that prevents damage to the surface of the lenses.
Automatically changes lens darkening in different lighting conditions.
Quick lens replacement thanks to magnetic base.

Flaws:

Not everyone can find a comfortable fit.
Insufficient lateral visibility.

You can buy Uvex ski goggles from 4.5 thousand rubles. up to 12 thousand rubles, this is the average price of the most popular models.

Ski goggles (masks) Carrera

These are universal optical glasses, which are suitable for both relaxation and sports. A wide range will allow you to choose a model for different ages and your own preferences.

Carrera ski goggles

Main advantages of the brand:

Polarizing filters prevent glare from penetrating. Mirroring gives a stylish look.
The comfortable strap buckle allows for a good fit for people with glasses to improve their vision.
The use of a special ventilation system that regulates air flow prevents glasses from fogging up.
Thanks to the spherical shape of the lenses, the view is transmitted as distortion-free as possible.

Flaws:

Not all models are suitable for use with helmets.
Carrera flexible goggles with a soft fit can only be used with a helmet from this manufacturer.

Cost from 1.5 to 3.5 thousand rubles.

Ski goggles (masks) Alpina

The range of ski goggles from the German manufacturer Alpina received feedback from users high level trust. Lenses have high degree UV protection and infrared radiation. Well suited for extreme sports.

Alpina ski goggles

Advantages:

Turbo ventilation is resistant to temperature changes, prevents lenses from fogging and protects from moisture on the inside.
Diamond coating provides good protection against lens scratches and condensation.
The use of special orange filters ensures good visibility in fog.
Due to the bending of the lenses, panoramic visibility and excellent lateral visibility are ensured.

Flaws: perhaps a high price, as for amateur skiers.

The average price of ski goggles is 6 - 15 thousand rubles.

Ski goggles (masks) Smith

Smith ski goggles

Pros of Smith ski goggles:

The use of a special membrane between the filters ensures leveling atmospheric pressure at high elevations and prevents terrain distortion and condensation.
Protection from ultraviolet and infrared radiation.
Frame flexibility to fit perfectly with helmet.
Possibility of changing lenses.
Applying a special anti-scratch coating.

Flaws: Lenses are not universal, they should be selected for each specific model.

Average price 5–10 thousand rubles.

Ski goggles (masks) Dragon

Dragon glasses take pride of place among lovers of active skiing and extreme sports. The American company uses the latest technologies in the production of equipment elements. A frameless, modern design model has been created for its customers. It is very stylish and also provides a good side viewing angle. A modern anti-fog lens coating technology has been developed, which allows you to maintain crystal clarity for as long as possible, even in extreme conditions.

Dragon ski goggles

Advantages:

Using a hypoallergenic microfleece lining with two layers of foam, which provides good grip on any type of helmet and fits snugly to the face.
High technology lens coatings ensure long-term use of glasses.
The use of cylindrical double filters provides good visibility and a wide overview.
Special anti-fog coating.
Polyurethane elastic frame.

The disadvantages of a brand can be identified during operation, when the capabilities of the glasses are not met with the conditions of use, or the correct model is chosen.

Average price 4 - 8 thousand rubles.

Less popular among athletes, but they have found their fans, are the models of ski goggles represented by the following brands.

Ski goggles (masks) Scott

A company with an American brand positions itself as a worthy participant in the competitive sporting goods market.

Scott ski goggles

Advantages of ski goggles from the American brand Scott:

Use of hypoallergenic foam seal.
Anti-fog double lenses made of polycarbonate.
100% UV protection.
Convenient lower frame fastening that does not create pressure on the bridge of the nose.

Flaws: Replacement lenses are not always available.

The average price of such an item of equipment is 5 - 9 thousand rubles.

Ski goggles (masks) Bolle

The French ski goggles company provides a wide range of products for men, women and children. Bolle produces a variety of eyewear designs and colors that can highlight the style of any athlete. The product has the ability to successfully combine cost with needs. This is exactly the option when the glasses are both high quality and comfortable.

Ski goggles Bolle

Advantages:

100% protection from ultraviolet rays.
Using bright, fun prints.
Comfortable soft elastic bands that allow you to easily adjust the fit of your glasses.
Acceptable prices.

Flaws. It is unlikely that such ski goggles should be chosen for professional athletes and fans of extreme sports. They quickly lose their protective properties under frequent use. Usage bright colors lenses and their combination can cause pain in the eyes due to different refraction of light.

Among the prices for the most popular models are from 1.5–4 thousand rubles.

Ski goggles (masks) Sinner

Sinner glasses are a Dutch brand that cares about quality and design along with affordable prices. In its technology, the company uses lightweight carbon lenses, rubberized clips to prevent slipping, and UV protection.

Ski goggles Sinner

Main positive characteristics:

Nice design.
Good technical characteristics that meet the necessary requirements.
Due to the increased space behind the lenses and easy mounting, it is convenient to use with glasses.
A special membrane does not create pressure on the temples.

Flaw. Not very durable. The coating wears off during the first 2–3 years of use. The result is scratches and insufficient protection from sun glare.

You can buy it for an average of 2–3 thousand rubles.

When choosing ski goggles, you need to remember the following:

If you purchase a ski set with goggles, check whether additional lenses are available. It is better to purchase all the components at once, since it is unknown how long the manufacturer will complete and offer this model of glasses for sale.
If equipment is purchased for use on an ongoing basis, stability will be an important factor technical characteristics. As practice shows, cheaper options quickly lose their protective properties: the transmission of ultraviolet rays increases, scratches and abrasions form on the lenses.

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 glasses is for skiing cuts off part of the color spectrum, so the snow no longer seems like 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. Shape of concrete mining ski mask or your 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 cloudiness, ultraviolet radiation in the mountains still affects the eyes, so ski mask must be. 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. Blue color, predominant in the spectrum, conceals 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 - enhances depth perception in the most sunny days, 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. Other important factors in choosing glasses include 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 clamped together to prevent fogging, glasses with anti-fog ultraviolet radiation 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. General rule, the further the face shield mask 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 chameleon lenses that adjust 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 emphasize the 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 glass 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 latest and greatest offering to date is the 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 production safety 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 the average size and a cylindrical lens with sufficient visibility, characterized by a 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. Large size face frame that is suitable for men and will provide good compatibility with a 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 features durability and a spherical shaped lens to provide an overall, distortion-free appearance. The strap fasteners 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 your 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 sides. If the object disappears from the field of view, such a mask is unlikely to provide good review 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 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 has high cost and is used in a variety of 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.
While riding, do not raise the mask to your forehead to avoid contact with inner side sweat.
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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Any athlete with minimal skiing experience will confidently say that 50% of successful skiing depends on the selection of equipment. And here we are talking not only about the selection of skis and poles, but also about the purchase of a ski mask. There are also some nuances of choice and purchasing features. Which goggles or masks for skiing are considered the best, and which models should you refrain from purchasing?

General information about glasses and masks

A ski mask protects a person not only from bright sun rays that can interfere with successful skiing, but also from pieces of snow, ice and strong wind. It will help preserve your vision and avoid injury due to loss of visibility.

Many beginners try to save money on buying glasses by purchasing the cheapest models, which not only have questionable quality, break quickly, but can also cause eye disease, since they will not protect against UVA and UVB radiation. This is why professionals immediately purchase good, expensive glasses that will serve their owner for as long as possible.

Which is better, glasses or a mask? Glasses are becoming increasingly popular these days, but there can be one serious problem with them. The fact is that it is problematic to choose glasses that fit perfectly without causing discomfort in the bridge of the nose. But the visibility with a mask is much better and can be worn with regular glasses.

Another serious question that most often arises among novice athletes is the difference between goggles for snowboarding and a model for skiing.

The main difference lies in the fact that snowboard masks give a maximum viewing angle, since this is very important in the sport itself. And if ski masks sometimes provide minimal visibility, then this is not a problem, because when skiing, the most important thing is to see what is in front of the athlete. In the case of a snowboard, a person must have the widest possible viewing angle to avoid the possibility of injury.

Now there are many categories by which masks and glasses are chosen. First, you need to list these categories, and then you should focus on the most important of them. How to choose a mask or goggles for snowboarding? What to look for Special attention when choosing a mask for alpine skiing?

On the quality of the lenses, and this is perhaps the most important criterion.
For size, shape and frame.
On the quality of fit to the face.
Check for ventilation and compatibility with the helmet.
Lens and filter selection

Lenses

There are masks on the market now with one and two lenses, fastened to each other. Masks with two lenses are much more practical and reliable, because they help reduce fogging of the model, improving visibility.

It's great if the lenses have coating antifog, since this is what helps prevent the mask from fogging.

Lens shape. Good lenses usually have a spherical shape, that is, they are concave not only horizontally, but also vertically. This allows for much less distortion of the visible image. To reduce distortion, lenses are often made different sizes, resulting in them being thicker in the center and thinner on the sides.

Filters

The color of the lenses is also important - the filter. For example, models with black lenses are ideal for riding in sunny weather, but models with blue or clear lenses are suitable for cloudy days or evening riding.

Special polarized lenses are considered one of the best. They have a small grating on the surface that allows only vertical light waves to pass through, which reduces the amount of glare from snow and ice.

Particular attention should be paid to filter type. What kind of filters are there?

Transparent, suitable for night skiing, transmits up to 98% of sunlight.
Dark brown version, transmits up to 10% of light.
Pink filter allows 59% of light to pass through, improving depth of field.
The yellow filter, best suited for bad weather, transmits 68% of light.
Gray, improves depth perception even in the sunniest weather, transmits 25% of light.

Antifog

It was already mentioned above that many manufacturers to reduce fogging glasses, a special liquid called antifog is applied to the lenses. It absorbs moisture so quickly that it does not have time to condense on the lens.

This anti-fogging system is considered very effective, but with it Do not wipe lenses from the inside, otherwise this very coating can be damaged. If a person accidentally damages the antifog coating, the glasses will quickly become unusable.

Ventilation

Very important characteristic when choosing a mask, it is the presence of ventilation. It will be great if the ventilation is regulated, which means that a person will be able to remove accumulated excess moisture outside. Now there is a simple ventilation option, which is holes in the mask, with the help of which air circulation is carried out. This system is a little inconvenient, because too large holes let in a lot of cold air, and therefore, using a mask brings discomfort to skating.

And yet, much more popular are the models in which it operates small fan on batteries. Its operation can be adjusted, thus creating ideal wearing conditions. With high-quality ventilation, a person may be pleasantly surprised by the complete absence of fogging.

Face fit and perfect fit

During the purchasing process it is important try on a mask, securing it correctly. If the model does not pinch anywhere, does not put pressure on the bridge of the nose, then you can purchase it, because it fits perfectly in size.

You also need to pay attention to the shape of the mask, because it must provide viewing angle at least 120 degrees.

It is very important that the mask fit tightly to the face, there were no gaps between the surface of the model itself and the skin. If there are such gaps, the mask will allow cold gusts of wind to pass through, and this will also cause discomfort. It is especially worth checking whether the nose slot does not interfere with normal breathing. If a person feels discomfort, it is better to refuse to buy a mask.

Shape and frame

Now they allocate three frame options:

Children's with adaptation to children's face shape and size.
Women's are slightly smaller in size than the general ones, which take into account the average size of a woman's head.
General is perhaps the most popular option for masks.

The frame itself on masks should be thin, but the lenses must be attached securely. This is why frames are usually made from practical polyurethane terpolyurethane. This material retains flexibility and strength even with large temperature changes.

The mask itself usually has a slightly rounded shape, and also involves the use of a well-stretchable strap. Strap It should be perfectly adjustable, fit snugly to the head and not cause discomfort. The inside of the mask should have a soft layer, usually foam rubber, which improves the fit of the model and softens the impact of a fall.

Helmet compatibility

It is important that the mask also fits perfectly with the helmet. That's why you can take a helmet with you to the store to actually check the quality of compatibility.

The mask should fit snugly to the helmet, not dangle or fall off. The safety of the mask and its condition often depend on this. If the model does not attach well to the helmet, if it does not lock onto it, then it is better to refuse the purchase.

If a person wears glasses that improve vision, then he should purchase special masks that allow him to wear them over his glasses. Such models are usually more expensive, but they are very convenient to use.

Mask care and instructions for use

Since the ventilation system and especially the lenses in such ski masks are sensitive, it is important to know rules, helping to extend the life of any model.

Wipe both internal and outer surface lenses can only be removed using a special optical cloth included in the kit.
After use, the mask should always be thoroughly cleaned of snow and ice, dried, and then stored warm.
The mask should always be stored in a special case, as this prevents the risk of mechanical damage models.
It is very important to thoroughly clear the ventilation system of snow and ice before they harden, otherwise the mask itself will begin to fog up heavily, which will increase the risk of injury when skiing.
Many experienced skiers advise always having two masks with you. If one becomes unusable during the ride, a person can always continue the journey without risk to his health.

The most important The rule here is to always wipe the lenses with the cloth included in the kit, do not try to clear them of snow with anything you can get your hands on. Lenses are very sensitive to external influences, and when improper care, the mask can quickly fail.

Top 5 best mask manufacturers

Of course, when selecting models, experienced skiers also pay attention to the manufacturer, knowing which of them have proven themselves well on the market. So, which manufacturers are considered the best, and which masks will meet all customer requirements?

Ski goggles from the brand have proven themselves to be excellent Uvex. (average price 2000-3000 rubles)
Masks are popular Dragon.(average price 5-8 thousand rubles)
Ski goggles from the manufacturer will also be an excellent choice. Oakley. (average cost 3-6 thousand rubles)
Masks Anon are relatively affordable (average cost 3-6 thousand rubles)
Marker- another popular manufacturer quality masks. (average cost 5-8 thousand rubles)

How to choose a mask - video

Let's now watch a video where they will tell you how to choose the right ski mask, what filter to use and how to care for it.

Optical glasses are one of the oldest inventions of mankind. Glasses on a skier's eyes are a problem that requires, at a minimum, attention. Of course, there are a number radical solutions- from surgery to all kinds of contact lenses. The trouble is that many don't care various reasons, these solutions are not suitable: surgery is expensive and scary, lenses are not always comfortable, require excessive attention, can cause allergies, and in some cases do not help. In the end, someone is simply not too young, is used to wearing glasses and does not want to change anything - a person has a lot of fundamental rights that no one is inclined to forget about.

And more from personal experience: I consider an appropriate helmet as a mandatory part of equipment when any skating. This, of course, creates some additional difficulties in selection, but health, as they say, is more expensive.

What glasses are suitable for wearing under a mask?

Frame

The title photo clearly shows that, compared to the size of the face, the glasses are quite small. From an aesthetic point of view, it is quite doubtful. From the point of view of selecting a mask, it is optimal - there is a minimum of problems with combining dimensions. The frame is made of titanium wire - minimum weight with maximum strength and flexibility. Not a single sharp corner. The frame completely covers the lenses - this design minimizes the risk of impact. The funny thing is that it was bought on sale at one of the network opticians for absolutely ridiculous money.

Lenses

Obviously, to reduce weight, strength and safety, the lenses should be plastic. The most common lens material today is polycarbonate. It may have different brand names. Size matters. If you ride aggressively, especially if you “go the line”, the requirement for correct distance assessment and reading the terrain become paramount. Excessive lateral visibility in this case is rather harmful. The obvious benefit of lenses of a small area is that they can be quite thin without the use of special technologies, and their shape is relatively simple (biconvex, concave).

For the same reasons of optical correctness, I would not recommend all kinds of bifocal, progressive lenses for sports driving. There is nothing to read on the highway. Safety and safety again!

Alternative

Normal people not only “cutting down landmarks”. Sometimes they just go for a ride to beautiful places in companies, with friends and loved ones, with children, for whom, as you know, you never have enough eyes. In order to provide maximum visibility, large area lenses are needed. Obviously, problems with optical aberrations (distortions) begin at the edges of the field of view. To minimize them, special laboratory lenses with greater curvature are used. Obviously, such lenses (in case of myopia) will have fairly thick edges. They are quite durable. To reduce weight, it makes sense to use frames with lenses attached with a special fishing line. Their strength is more than enough (tested). The safety of the structure in case of impact is ensured by flexible nose supports.

Large glasses also require masks of sufficient volume.

Is it possible to do without a mask completely?

Of course. Especially if you ride slowly, on prepared slopes... Having done this once in a snowstorm, they usually begin to carry the mask with them - you can get a whole range of sensations...

Exception

For me personally, Oakley optics stand out completely. It would seem like a simple massive frame... which, as it feels on the face, weighs nothing, thanks to the peculiarity of the fit.

The sum of fantastic protection and absolute optical correctness is not easy to achieve. Both the frame and the lenses are strongly curved, fitting as closely as possible to the face. Aerodynamic elements direct air flow into the ventilation windows. Custom lenses are manufactured in the Oakley factory. Made from proprietary Plutonite plastic. Expensive. And no distortion.

Photochrome

Have you noticed that in one picture the lenses are almost black, and in the other they are transparent? This is a photochromic coating. In common parlance - a “chameleon” - changing shade depending on the level of UV radiation. A very convenient thing. If the lenses are not “left-handed”, in addition to the shade, the degree of light transmission actually changes. Having a photochromic filter on the glasses, we take a mask with minimal darkening - enough for conditions from night skiing in the Moscow region to spring skiing in the Elbrus region. Verified.

Flip-up System

Experience shows that the surface of lenses with a photochromic coating is scratched much more than a regular transparent one. And the cost often goes beyond reasonable limits. An alternative to photochrome is the Flip-up System. The tinted visor can be raised or removed completely.

OTG masks

Ski mask CEBE INFINITY OTG WHITE YELLOW top

Regardless of the brand, color, type of filter... a mask designed to be worn over glasses must have some additional volume in order to accommodate these same glasses. Externally, this is clearly visible; if you look at the mask from above, you will see a clearly angular shape. These "corners" are where the eyeglass frame hinges are placed. It is also obvious that compared to the standard one, the OTG will have a greater thickness, indented from the face.

Ski mask CEBE INFINITY OTG WHITE LIGHT ROSE

From small details: in the seal (seal) of the mask there will be special slots on the sides for the temples of glasses.

I categorically do not recommend, even with a small face volume, center-to-center distance... experimenting with putting on standard masks over glasses. The hinge of the frame will rest on the light filter and the pressure of the glasses on the nose will be in anyway.

Selection

You can wear optical glasses all the time, or you can wear them only for riding. In most cases, with the most in different forms and frame sizes, the OTG mask will fit normally over the glasses.

Much more important:

how the mask fits into the helmet;

Will the helmet move the mask with the goggles inside?

As a rule, by the time you select a mask, you already have optical glasses (at least everyday glasses) and a helmet. Even if you don’t have glasses when you try them on, it’s not a big problem. It turns out that the position of the lower edge of helmets varies. Since the helmet is not a soft cap, it is not always easy to adjust its position optimally. And in general, selecting and fitting a helmet to the head is akin to similar procedures with ski boots. True, boots can be adjusted to a wide extent using bootfitting methods... which cannot be done with a helmet.