This season is said to be a warm winter, but it still snows, and when it falls, you can enjoy powder. I'm so glad it was born in Japan! I've been feeling this recently.
Now winter sports. In particular, what would you imagine if you were told that this is the most important tool for enjoying skiing and snowboarding?
Of course, it's the boards and boards you need to slide!
Of course, it's the boots that act as a connecting part to the board and board!
Appearance is the most important thing after all! It's clothing!
There are probably many different opinions, but the most important gear I think is "goggles."
It is said that humans get 90% of information from their field of vision, or eyes. If you blindfold it, 90% of the information will be gone. That's why I think goggles are the most important item to look at!
With that in mind, I have been using SMITH
The trigger was this word tweeted by a color blind senior patrol.
"I tried a lot, but I can only see this lens color from SMIT
Before that, I used to use OAKLEY I started using SMITH I have been using SMITH In other words, before I started this review, I was completely SMITH party.
, looking at recent SMITH
"Is the quality really different from cheap goggles?"
"Is it really worth the price?"
"The other brands say the same thing, but which one is really better?"
It is also true that this question is rising.
So this time, we've picked out three major popular brands and one benchmark company, and compared the latest lens technology, high contrast lens goggles!
table of contents
table of contents
- About the items we compared and tested this time
- Test results and spec comparison table
- What if I had to choose one? My recommendation
- Other recommended models for specific preferences
- Summary: Tips for choosing the perfect goggles for you, as we learned from the test
This time we have compared goggles for skiing and snowboarding
Here are the goggles I used to compare this time. *The lens type and visible light transmittance (hereinafter referred to as VLT)
- SMITH Squad XL (Cromapop Storm Rose Flash lenz 50%)
- OAKLEY Line Miner XM (Prizm Rose 26%)
- POC Retina Big Clarity (Spektris Rose Gold 35% *Included lens is Spectris Orange 22%)
- (Benchmark) SWANS RIDGELINE-U (ULTRA lens 35%)
When choosing these four models, the following three prerequisites were the first to try.
- You must wear a high contrast lens
- It must be a flat lens type
- Being a major domestic brand
Why did you choose a high contrast lens?
This "high contrast lens" is one of the cutting edge technology that has become particularly popular these days. To put it very simply, the technology that makes it clearer and clearer (reference: SMITH "Chromapop" ) makes it easier to see uneven snow and other unevenness on each stage.
How much has the latest lenses evolved? As a gear lover, I can't help but try it. There is another reason why I chose the latest technology high contrast lenses. That's the price.
As product technology levels increase, the prices of goggles have been increasing recently. But is it really worth the price? I've been changing shoes that I've been unhappy about up until now, so do I always need to use expensive models with high contrast lenses now? You won't be able to understand such questions until you try them out.
Why did you choose to compare with a flat lens?
First and foremost, it's cool (lol).
I think that the latest trend is simply flat lenses (lol).
But that's not the only reason. I learned that that person and this person who compete in the Olympics, X games, etc.
When asked why, it was said that flat surfaces had less distortion. As far as I've tried it myself, I've changed it many times and compared it, but I'm sure there's a difference in the edges of my vision. That's the difference, but it's true that flat surfaces have less distortion and provide a more natural vision. I was very convinced in the sense that in a world where delicate and accurate movements are required at an instant, we want to choose the correct one for external information.
It is said that spherical lenses generally have the advantages of having a wider field of view than flat lenses, but in the end, some of them have a wider field of view. That's why I chose a flat lens this time, including the latest lens.
Why did you choose these three brands?
First of all SMITH and OAKLEY are definitely the top brands worldwide. Both support high-level riders, and for those riders, you SMITH or OAKLEY . Apparently some people have said that.
Another thing POCs are often used by foreign tourists who have recently been seen on slopes and backcountry skiers! I have been selected as a candidate (as Fullmarks, who is good at both discerning and branding, will serve as a domestic agent, so I actually want to confirm his abilities).
As it is used in Japan and is a domestic brand, I would SWANS , but there was no suitable flat lens model, so this time we've picked out the high-end models in the lineup and used them as comparisons.
also DRAGON , and there were many candidates I wanted to include, but from here on, I and the editor-in-chief discussed it, and ultimately narrowed down the comparison model to the above four models. By the way, I am a telemark skier who loves powder, so I make the decision based on the assumption that it will be used in the backcountry.
Test environment
The test situation was conducted in January to February at ski resorts and backcountry areas, using clear, cloudy, morning to evening, and examining how it looks and feel. We also tested detailed considerations such as the difficulty of clouding in the indoor environment.
In addition, the following five items were evaluated for each model, loads were allocated according to their importance, and the graded items for each model were set as follows.
- Ease of viewing... Not only is the high contrast lens that inspired this time easy to see in the snow, but also how comfortable it can achieve, including the wider vision. Check from various perspectives.
- Not cloudy... Don't fog up goggles are very important when enjoying powder in the backcountry.
- Comfort: Check overall fit, cushioning, breathability, and more.
- Ease of use: Compare the detailed satisfaction you will feel when using, such as ease of attaching and detaching the belt, adjusting the belt, ease of changing the lenses, and good construction.
- Cost performance: We evaluate the balance between the above-mentioned features and performance and price.
What are your predictions before the test?
My prediction before the test was that I am SMITH follower, so the top spot was definitely the classic " SMITH ."
How will
OAKLEY another well-established brand, come into the process And what about the new Nordic brand POC ?
SWANS benchmarks be better?
If it goes well, I think it would be SMITH > OAKLEY > POC, but what was the actual situation? We'll announce the results right away!
Test results and spec comparison table
If you find it difficult to see the table because it is lightweight for smartphones, click here
| comprehensive evaluation | AAA | AA | AA | A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| item |  |
 |
 |
![[Domestic brand] SWANS Ski Snowboard Goggles Anti-fog Premium Anti-fog Mirror Water-repellent Glasses Can be used RIDGELINE](https://images-fe.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61AKD4c3YcL._SS300_.jpg) |
| Reference price | 17,280 yen | 27,000 yen | 24,840 yen | 27,000 yen |
| This is ◎ |
|
|
|
|
| This is △ |
|
|
|
|
| Ease of viewing | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Not cloudy | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Ease of use | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Cost Performance | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Specs | ||||
| lens | Prizm lens | Clarity lens | Cromapop | ULTRA lenses |
| Lens color | Prizm Rose | Spectris Orange (Reviewed by Spektris Rose Gold) | Storm Rose Flash | Ice Mirror x ULTRA Light Purple |
| Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) | 26% | 22% (35% according to review) | 50% | 35% |
| accessories |
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What if I had to choose one? My recommendation
All of the products we chose this time are famous brands, so there were no major issues with basic performance, and there were no major drawbacks in terms of ease of viewing and difficulty in clouding.
However, when using it in powder or backcountry, the basic performance plus alpha is very important. For this reason, we have compared and checked the details. After comprehensively observing the performance, fit, fog resistance, good construction, and cost-effectiveness of the lens, the recommended goggles I choose now the OAKLEY Line Miner XM !
To be honest, all of the lens performances are generally satisfied and difficult to match, but this model provides the most contrasting field of vision, and there are no gaps in other lens performance and fit, making it safe to use in the backcountry. Another thing that made me choose this was the good construction and high quality.
I felt that the installation of pads, attaching lenses, making foam, and making lenses are all of the quality, and were worth the price, all of which were of high quality, even down to the smallest details. For example, if we explain the attachment of the lens as an example, we can see that the two lenses are glued together neatly, with almost no slippage, protruding or wrinkles.
The whole thing is glued neatly, with almost no slipping, protruding or wrinkles.
Although it seems obvious, there are only a few manufacturers who have a neat finish to these invisible parts. By the way, I'm also quite concerned about the protruding adhesives with SMITH
You can see how well it is made by comparing the details. The adhesion misalignment shown in the photo has a small effect on performance and durability.
However, I will purchase a different lens color. The Prizm Rose lens (VLT26%) used in this test is a little too dark, so it's sunny, but in light cloudy or snowy conditions it felt more difficult to see than other bright lenses.
The colour is dark so I don't notice any sunny days, but even with this light cloudy level, it was quite red and stressful.
So I felt that the VLT would be a little brighter (about 35-50%) and would be easier to see overall with lighter lenses, which could be used from sunny to lighter cloudy.
However, if you have not used authentic quality goggles yet, I recommend the SMITH Squad XL The assembly quality is OAKLEY , but the fit is particularly high, and the high cost performance of a set of two lenses is a plus for this first model.
Products at this level are in line with performance, so the quality of the fitting → the lens that meets your needs will be determined. Having two lenses is equivalent to having two goggles, so if one lens is no longer usable, you can somehow cover it with one more lens.
When you think about it that way, SMITH is so popular.
Next page: Go to recommended models based on specific preferences
From here, we will introduce recommended models based on specific points from various perspectives. Please use this if you want to judge your favorite model yourself based on the test results. He's quite a maniac, so if you like it, please try it.
High brightness and contrast lens: OAKLEY
Here is a comparison of the performance of the high contrast lenses that caught my eye the most. To be honest, this is the part that we are focusing on the brand's most emphasis, and all of them have subtle pros and cons, and overall there are no models that stand out the best overall, making it a very troublesome choice .
First of all, in terms of the strength of the rumored high contrast (how clearly the shadows become easier to see), OAKLEY was the most obvious. It's clear on the slopes, but it's amazing how clear it is even in the city. Primary colors in particular look like fluorescent colors. SMITH has a strong contrast, even though the lens is bright. of POC and SWANS also appeared more clearly on the snow, but when looking at them in a complex environment, including in the city, they were slightly milder than the other two.
Next, in terms of lens brightness, the VLT is different so there is no exact difference, but in terms of a bright lens, the OAKLEY 's appearance in the sunny weather is the best, and the contrast is clear, making it brighter. Incidentally, SMITH is excellent in total brightness, and it looks bright, especially when it's dim. It feels brighter than your naked eyes. POCs and SWANS are basically bright and easy to see, and SWANS visible in colours that are close to the naked eye, so there is the least discomfort when worn.
High resolution and wide visibility: POC
On the other hand, when I put it on, my vision looked sharp and sharp . I can't explain the reason, but the lens made by CARL ZEISS, a camera lens manufacturer, certainly looked more clearly than the others. It feels like I've adjusted the image quality on my smartphone.
Finally, the wider view. The shape of the goggles and the shape of the frame have a major impact on the visible area. Naturally, it is easier to see if your vision is wider, but the easier it is to see the parts you need, the easier it is to use goggles. With this in mind, despite the flat lens, it was the POC The drooping shape, like teardrop sunglasses, gives a wide view of the left and right bottom parts, and also makes it easier to get a wide view in terms of the shape and size of the frame.
Cost performance: SMITH
It is easy to see, does not fog, and fit at a high standard, and the price (23,000 yen) for two lenses is simply good value for money. I've never bought goggles, or I can't use the goggles I'm currently using anymore. In such cases, I definitely recommend SMITH
Also, if you already have goggles that can be used, I recommend OAKLEY for the next one because of the careful construction.
Cloudy not easy: SMITH, OAKLEY
I think that not fogs are very important for enjoying powder in the backcountry. Therefore, this "cloudiness is not easy" was a consideration that I was particularly interested in.
Not only do they actually ski, but also leave it in the bath or spray it on, so there's no problem with either "SMITH or OAKLEY" as to whether it's not cloudy! It is not cloudy and absorbs and releases water very quickly, and even if it falls and snows get in, if you ride a single lift, it will recover to a level that is not a problem to watch. The POC was also not a problem with the fog on the inside. However, when I ride the gondola, I felt that the outside of the lens would be slightly cloudy.
If the lens is not easily fogged, the lens will adsorb if it is slightly fogged, and even if you spray water with a spray bottle, it will absorb and dissipate the moisture immediately (photo is SMITH).
Regarding SWANS. I had no good impression of SWANS in the first place. However, following the results this time, my impression changed and I bought Swans goggles for my child. I had such a good impression of SWANS, but when it comes to using it in backcountry, I wouldn't recommend SWANS.
SWANS can cause snow to enter the inside, and when water droplets get on, the lens absorbs moisture and expands, making it difficult to see. Furthermore, once water is contained, it recovers slowly and the lens becomes distorted during this time. In this case, sub-goggles are essential.
If moisture is adhered to the inside of the lens, the inside surface of the lens will become uneven like a crater. Of course, the vision is distorted. It takes a few minutes or even a few minutes to recover from this point.
Comfort: SMITH
(SMITH, OAKLEY, POC, SWANS from right)
the SMITH was the most comfortable overall, considering the fit, cushioning, and breathability . It's easier to see if you remove the lens and attach it with just the frame, but while other brands start touching it from the sides of the pads and around the temples, SMITH starts from the center. In other words, gaps are likely to form in the nose, and the curves of the face are looser than Westerners, making it easier to fit Japanese people. The reasons are that the nose part of the Japan Fit has a strong volume, and the foam pads are tapered with different thicknesses in the center and sides.
From right, SMITH, OAKLEY, POC, SWANS
In addition, the OAKLEY is also very comfortable to wear due to its shape that is relatively easy for Japanese people to fit in, and the cushioning of the part that hits it. On the other hand, the POC is an Asian fit, the curve of the frame is still slightly tight, and the shape of the frame is likely to touch the cheeks, so there is a high chance that it will be a choice for someone to fit (although the nose pads are thick, so it's not a tight spot).
What about domestic SWANS Many people may think so. The SWANS has a loose curve, but the nose pads are actually thin. Because it is thin (especially in the nose), it may not suit some people.
From the right: SMITH, OAKLEY, POC, SWANS. The thickness of the nose pads made the fit feel quite different.
Summary: Tips for choosing the perfect goggles for you, as we learned from the test
SMITH, OAKLEY, POC, and SWANS were all great products as they are top brands! The discussion was also very fun.
Based on the results of this article, we can say when choosing goggles:
- fitting
- Lens selection
is important. Finally, I would like to share some tips on how to choose from that I learned through this review.
1: Fitting
As for fitting, it has been said that fitting is important when choosing goggles. However, you may be wondering, "Where should I look at the fitting?" I've only ever been conscious of the gap in my nose. However, after testing this time, I found out that there are some points in the fitting as well.
- Is the frame size and size suitable for me?
- Does the curves of the frame form fit your face?
- Can't there be a gap in the nose?
- Don't you feel uncomfortable with the hardness of the foam and the feel of the material?
When choosing goggles, try trying out a variety of items, from expensive to cheap. Even if it's high, it's pointless if the fitting doesn't work.
If you try out 5-6 brands and models, you'll probably get it somehow. Especially when it comes to frame size and size, even if large lenses are popular, they look too childish, and if you wear a helmet, they can go well with a helmet. If it's too big, the goggles will be lowered to the helmet and won't fit.
Do you like or dislike the model? I think the most important thing is, but I hope you will remember the results of this time when you think, "Both this and this one are good, what should I do?"
2: Lens selection
Personally, I recommend choosing a lighter lens. In terms of VLT, it's around 35% to 50%. Basically, the lens covers the sun and cloudiness.
There are individual differences, but at 25% the lens color is too dark, which makes it difficult to see. The lenses aimed at foreigners, especially Westerners, seem too dark for Japanese people.
Foreigners, especially Westerners, wear sunglasses. It's fashion, but it's simply dazzling. Westerners are more sensitive to glare because their eyes are lighter.
It also snows well in Japan. It often snows and clouds in January and February, so I don't think you need a very thick lens.
With this lens,
- SWANS RIDGELINE-U (ULTRA lens VLT 35%)
- POC Retina Big Clarity (Spektris Rose Gold VLT 35%)
It seems like it's easy to use.
Left: SWANS RIDGELINE-U (ULTRA lens VLT 35%), Right: POC Retina Big Clarity (Spektris Rose Gold VLT 35%)
Of course, there are individual differences, so there is no absolute. In fact, I'm fine with bright lenses, so I prefer the SMITH Cromapop Storm Rose Flash lenz 50% lens.
However, when it's sunny, it's so bright that it's dazzling and annoying! There are also opinions like this.
Too bright, it's not good for your eyes and can get tired, so considering the average lens color, I think about 35% is safe. If you have the budget, this model didn't have one, but now there are lenses that are high contrast and also have dimmable lenses, so that's probably the best!
I think the best goggles will vary depending on how you use them and the situation you use them as your main focus. If we talk about this from the perspective of a backcountry skier, we get the results like this one.
I hope this will help you choose your goggles!
Hamaguchi Makoto
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