Ski Goggle Buying Guide

It's great to have fun on the slopes. It's even better to be able to see where you're going. Turns out there are some things you want — and don't want — when buying your next pair of winter goggles.

Single of Multiple Lenses?

The most inexpensive goggles have a single lens, but multiple layers of lenses help to reduce fogging. If you do opt for a single lens, you might want to consider goggles that have vents. Small holes at the tope and bottom of your goggles can keep moisture from fogging up the inside — a major headache you'll want to avoid.

Polycarbonate lenses are generally the most durable. Make sure your lenses come with an anti-scratch/anti-fog coating.

Generally, the better quality lenses come with a matching price tag.

Lens Color

• Yellow/Amber/Gold — These colors are great for filtering out blue light, which helps to illuminate shadows. Amber is good in almost any light condition except dusk or heavy cloud cover, while yellow and gold are very good for overcast days but might be too bright for full sun.
• Black — Just like you'd expect, black lenses are best on extremely bright and sunny days. But they deepen shadows, and can be tricky if the sun goes in.
• Green/Silver — These are best for brighter conditions because they help to enhance the contrast between light and dark areas.
• Purple/Rose — Good in low light and at dusk because they tend to enhance shadows and contrasts.
• Clear — Best in dark conditions such as late dusk, heavy clouds, or nighttime.

Lens Shape

Cylindrical shaped lenses provide great optics at a good price. Spherical lenses, though, give you the best optics. You'll want to be sure no matter what kind of goggle you buy, it provides full, 180-degree vision so you can see everything you need to.

Lens Features

Consider these features when looking at goggles:

• Padded Interior — You don't want your goggles to cut into your face if you happen to land directly on it.
• Flexible Exterior — You obviously want goggles than can flex and bend on impact.
• Vents — Vents help to prevent fogging and moderate temperature.
• Lens Material — Better materials are not only more durable, but provide better optics as well. You'll notice that the best materials don't come cheap.

Lens Fit

So how to ensure a good fit when you can't try them on? Here are some tips for online buying:

• If you wear a helmet, be sure your goggles are compatible with it.
• An easily adjustable strap is a must to keep your goggles snug on your face.
• Women's and kids goggles are designed for smaller faces.