Professional Skiers Swear By These Goggles When They're Hitting The Slopes

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Whether you just took up skiing or are already a vet to the slopes, it’s pretty much a given that having the right gear is essential to a smooth experience—the most necessary being a great pair of women's ski goggles. After all, being able to see clearly is a must for keeping safe.

“Goggles are the unsung heroes of the slopes,” says two-time Olympian Kaylin Richardson, who is now a big-mountain skier. “You might have the most dialed ski and boot combo, but if you can't see, you can't ski.” Trust, getting snow into your eyes isn't pleasant. “Ski goggles prevent your eyes from watering when skiing and affecting your visibility,” adds Marc Bromhall, certified PSIA ski instructor and founder of Beginner Surf Gear.

Yep! Just like the snow boots you wear to protect your feet or the ski pants you throw on to keep warm, goggles are just one of those things you should research before you buy so that you make the best possible purchase for you. So before you hit the big slopes, read on to shop the best women's ski goggles, per professional skiers, customer reviews, and editor faves.

Line Miner

The Oakley Line Miner is made with three layers of pliable foam and moisture-wicking fleece, which is perfect for all-day comfort on the slopes. Because of the added layers, these goggles are also compatible with prescription eyewear.

"Oakley Line Miner goggles are an excellent option for their price," says Mike Humphrey, a certified Level 3 ski instructor and race coach based in Japan. "They're comfortable, and the prism lenses provide clarity across a wide range of light conditions." He adds that a possible caveat is that they're prone to fogging during wet and snowy conditions.

Rave Review: “These keep your head warm and protected. The goggles also fit great on my helmet. I do like the lenses as well, so that was a huge plus. They fit well on my face and don’t fog up, even when I’m sweating on a warmer day.”

I/O MAG ChromaPop Goggles

If you’re looking for HD quality vision, Smith’s I/O Mag is one of the best. It comes with an extra lens, so that you have one for bright and low light. The lenses also repel moisture and don’t fog up. Sounds like a winner to me.

"These goggles have some of the best contrast on the market," says Humphrey. "They are excellent for low-light conditions, and the quick magnetic change-outs are a big bonus." Other testers agree, adding that the optics are great and the lenses are easy to change out.

Rave Review: “Amazing goggles! The low visibility lenses are so useful and easy to change. Even in the hardest conditions, my lenses stay great without any fog."

Blok Adult Snow Goggles

Christine Wang, a veteran skier and founder of theskigirl.com, likes these ski goggles because they're simple but “have everything you need,” she says. They are super comfortable and come in a wide selection of fun, bright colors, like Green Cosmo Slime and Pink Neon, which all add a pop of color to whatever you’re wearing.

Testers say these goggles are great quality for a budget-friendly price. Many users also note that they don't experience fogging while they're skiing. Some testers say that these are particularly helpful when the weather is partially cloudy.

Rave Review: "Excellent product! No problems with fogging and good vision in all riding conditions."

Pipeline Ski Goggles

These unisex, wide-view ski and snowboard goggles fit snug on the face and use magnets to make flipping the lenses fast and easy. A reviewer on Amazon claims they’re strong, so she doesn’t worry about them falling off.

Other testers say that the lenses are a breeze to swap out and love how well the goggles fit over a helmet without adding too much pressure to the face. Many also love how modern the design is.

Rave Review: “These look awesome and fit over my glasses without being uncomfortable. I like that they have swappable lenses for different conditions and that they didn't fog up at all during my six hours on the mountain.”

RVX Mag OTG

The RVX Mag OTG goggles have a lens that’s easy to change thanks to their convenient design. They're augmented with magnetic contact points that connect to a one-sided release lever for quick lens changes. The goggles, a fave of fitness editor Jennifer Nied's, are also made with an impressive anti-fog treatment.

"The swiftlock lens-changing mechanism is so easy, I can confidently change a lens in the gondola or on the lift even when conditions shift," Nied says. She's also especially fond of the black lenses which are "ideal for bright, bluebird days," Nied adds.

Rave Review: "The lens clarity is outstanding in both high and low light. It's the simplest and most secure lens change I've ever used, and even though they are rimless, with the magnets, change can be done without touching the lens surface."

Roca Snowboard & Ski Goggles

As the U.S. Ski Team’s official goggles, you can imagine these Roca goggles are a solid pick. The interchangeable lens come in seven different options, designed in a variety of colors and tints for all-day use. There’s also an easy side-clip locking system designed to hold the lens in place.

Users like the way these goggles easily fit over their helmets. They also appreciate how effortless it is to swap the lenses out when needed. For the price, testers say future buyers can expect great ventilation and minimal fogging.

Rave Review: “The airflow kept my eyes clear and well-ventilated, but also protected from the worst of the cold. They fit comfortably, but not too snug.”

No. 3 x Bode Miller

These goggles protect your eyes from UV light and are designed in collaboration with Olympic skier Bode Miller. Revo’s NASA-based lens technology has a light management system that keeps the views crystal clear.

Testers agree that these goggles work well in all kinds of lighting, but that they work best under direct sunlight or bright light in general. Users also say they experience great visibility with these goggles and appreciate the simple design.

Rave Review: “I love these goggles! I can see everything on the slopes so much more clearly with these lenses, way better than any other brands I've used.”

Facet Ski Goggles

Thanks to its refined silhouette, the Giro Facet goggles are designed with smaller faces in mind. The vivid lens technology boasts excellent contrast, which enhances your vision on the slopes. The pink lens is good for mixed conditions, ensuring a smooth ride no matter when you go.

Rave Review: “The lens is so clear and crisp that the details are very vivid through them. The cushioning feels good, and there’s no air gap anywhere. I have a smaller face shape, and it fits perfectly.”

Adapt 2

The award-winning Adapt 2 is Glade Optics' most-popular option that doesn’t sacrifice quality for style. These lenses automatically change tints based on your surrounding conditions. They're also anti-fog and extremely durable.

Rave Review: "I think these [goggles] may be the best I've ever put on! The clarity and contrast of the terrain is extraordinary. The changing of tint of the lens is unnoticeable while riding in different light conditions."

Perceive

These cylindrical lenses have both low light and sunlight options, which you can swap out in seconds through Anon’s magnetic system, and those low light lenses do come in handy. “For minor clouds, or even tree runs through shade, the low light lenses are the bomb,” says reviewer, Heather Keita.

Rave Review: “Love these! They are comfortable, chic, don't fog, have great visibility, and look great! I would purchase them again in another color. The side band with tiki pattern was an added bonus.”

Lightyear Goggles

If you’re sus of any goggles marked as “anti-fogging,” there’s no reason to be with Julbo’s Lightyear line. Its one-of-a-kind ventilation system pushes air away from the lens to keep your view crystal clear.

Rave Review: “I really appreciate that these goggles are extra protective against the sun. They leave my eyes feeling much better than with previous goggles."

Portal Goggles

It’s always a good deal when you can get an extra lens with your goggles. Sure, you might have to fork over a little extra cash for the Zeal Portal goggles, but you don’t have to go through buying an extra lens separately. The frameless design is also timeless.

Rave Review: “I have used these goggles skiing in various lighting conditions, and the visibility is excellent. I really like the magnetic connection to the frame that has an added bonus of better peripheral vision.”

Flight Deck L Snow Goggles

You can never go wrong with Oakley, and these Flight Deck goggles are no different. “Oakley has been setting the standard for all other goggles for the best part of a decade by creating ones with a wide field of view, perfect for navigating crowded ski slopes at resorts,” says Shawn Richards, professional climber, skier, and expedition co-ordinator at Ultimate Kilimanjaro.

All lenses use color and contrast-enhancing technology called Prizm, which ensures clearer vision so you can see everything that’s in front of you. Combined also with anti-fog lens coating and vented frames, your vision will be crystal clear, no matter the weather.

Rave Review: “I have several pairs of Oakley Flight Deck Prizm goggles, but was missing a lens for low visibility. These Prizm pink lenses are perfect for that situation. In low light, fog, or snowy conditions, they really excel to give you great visibility of the terrain.”

Nevada Small

These goggles use Phatom, which is Bolle's unique photochromic lens that adjusts to just about any light condition you find yourself in. In other words, you'll be good to go whether your skiing under cloudy or blue skies. If these aren't your color, there are over a dozen more to choose from.

Rave Review: "I have sensitive eyes and am very happy how they reacted to the glare. Price is a little steep, but worth the money."

Ski Goggles PRO

Don't have hundreds to dish on goggles? This pick is for you. “The Master Pro Classic is a cost-effective model that offers a magnetic lens change system with scratch and fog-resistant lenses, and 20 different designs,” says Smith. Plus, it’s compatible with most helmet options.

Rave Review: “These Outdoor Masters are an awesome value. They look and perform way above the price and have comparable features to $200+ pairs." –Jennifer Nied, WH fitness editor

Kleveland Goggles

These sleek goggles, a fave pick of Bromhall, have anti-reflective technology and a cylindrical lens shape to reduce distortion and improve clarity. Plus, there’s use of photochromic technology, which will help the lens naturally transition when exposed to different light levels.

Rave Review: “These are amazing goggles that really get the job done. They're my favorite lenses, and they work great in all conditions.”

Marauder Snow Goggle

Bromhall likes these ski goggles by Spy Optic for their sweat-wicking properties, dual lens feature for clarity, anti-scratch and anti-fog abilities, and last but not least—their helmet compatibility.

Rave Review: "These goggles are awesome! I've been snowboarding for over 20 years, and these are my favorite goggles yet."

Unlimited II OTG Goggles

Worried about the sun getting in your eye while you hit the slopes? If so, you'll fall in love with these Unlimited II's from Scott. They provide 100 percent UV protection and were created using an anti-fog treatment.

Rave Review: "So glad I went back to Scott. They worked excellently, and they're comfortable over a helmet. Plus, they offer great visibility in sunshine or overcast light. "

Meet the experts

• Kaylin Richardson is a former American alpine ski racer and two-time Olympian.

• Marc Bromhall is a certified PSIA ski instructor and founder of Beginner Surf Gear.

• Mike Humphrey is a certified Level 3 ski instructor and race coach based in Japan.

• Christine Wang is the founder of theskigirl.com.

What should I look for in ski goggles?

When trying to figure out what ski goggles are best for you, here are some factors to keep in mind:

Shape

The lens shape dictates your field of view. “The more complete the view, the more control the rider has of the situation,” Richardson says. “Whether you are a seasoned pro or a complete newbie to the skiing and snowboarding game, awareness of your periphery allows for a more successful ride down the mountain.”

There are three common lens shapes out there: cylindrical, spherical, and toric. A cylindrical shape is flat and wraps around your face. A spherical is round both horizontally and vertically to mirror the shape of an eyeball. Toric is a blend of cylindrical and spherical. (More on these later!)

Figuring out which is best for you might take a little trial and error, but Richardson offers one tip regrading the ultra-cylindrical shape, which is becoming more popular. If you're a beginner, it may not be for you. "A frame that extends too far from the face to support a super curved lens actually inhibits peripheral view," she says.

Lenses

The type of lenses you get is important, as it determines if your vision will be clear atop the mountain. “Broadly speaking, you have a reflective lens for sunnier conditions and a yellow or clear lens for duller conditions where the light is flat,” Bromhall says. You will need both lenses if you’re an avid skier, so it’s a matter of picking one with both lenses included or buying two separate ski goggles to accommodate changes.

That’s why nearly every manufacturer makes goggles with interchangeable lenses. Some even sell extra lenses with your goggles, which is so clutch. “Changing lenses can be arduous,” Richardson notes. “Practice using your goggle bag over your hands, so that your fingers never touch the lens.” Or, look for lenses that have magnetic technology—a newer technology on the market—that allows the lenses to snap into place.

You’ll also want to make sure the goggles have anti-fogging technology and good ventilation. Some fogging is virtually impossible to prevent. “If your goggles fog on the inside lens, fight the urge to wipe it with a cloth,” Richardson says. “You could scratch the lens or unwittingly remove or disturb a helpful coating.” Instead, she recommends putting the goggles in your coat or long underwear because your body heat will warm up the lenses and get rid of the fogging.

Padding

Padding equates to comfort. “What's most important when buying ski goggles is finding a pair that fits flush against your entire face as well as how padded they are—the more padding, the better the fit and comfort of the goggles,” Bromhall says.

You might feel some pressure from the goggles in a particular area. Richardson says it often forms around the bridge of your nose. When choosing goggles, it’s important to find ones that alleviate that pressure with good padding, she advises.

“There should be a nice cushion around the entire frame gently held in place—snug enough to keep wind out, but never so tight that it leaves marks,” she explains. “Once the goggles are in place they should be comfortable enough that you forget about them.”

When it comes to cushioning, foam is out and elastogran is in, says Richardson. Gone are the days when the foam disintegrated by the end of the season. Elastogran is a flexible material that conforms to your face and wicks away sweat, and lucky for your wallet, is a lot more durable.

Style

One way to ensure you look good on the slopes is to get a goggle that is compatible with your helmet. Richardson says “goggle gap” —when a sliver of your forehead shows—is real. And while helmet compatibility is stylish, it also ensures comfort.

"Buying one system (a goggle and helmet from the same manufacturer) is a great way to do this, but not a necessity,” she adds. “Just bring your helmet with you if/when you set out to find new goggles.”

What are the different lens shapes?

There are three different kinds of goggle lenses: cylindrical, spherical, and toric. "The different shapes are designed to fit your face and match the shape of your eyes," says Humphrey. "The difference is [based on] how they curve horizontally and vertically." Here's a deeper breakdown of how the they all compare.

Cylindrical Lenses

These lenses curve horizontally, but are flat vertically. "Cylindrical lenses provide excellent peripheral vision, but you lose some clarity due to the distortion," says Humphrey.

Spherical Lenses

Spherical lenses are curved in both directions (think: the roundness of a basketball). Humphrey notes that these are likely to match the shape of your eyes and they're less likely to fog up. However, this style of lens can also limit you peripheral vision.

Toric Lenses

If you were to create the perfect mix of a cylindrical and spherical lens, it would be Toric. They're curved horizontally and have a bit of a vertical curve as well. "They offer better peripheral vision than a spherical lens and less distortion than a cylindrical lens."

Which is the best lens shape?

At the end of the day, the best lens shape is entirely subjective to your experience with each style. What works for one person might not work for someone else.

If you want to have solid peripheral vision, a cylindrical lens is your best bet. If distortion or fogging is a concern, opt for a spherical lens. And if you need a little bit from both, get goggles with a toric lens.

What are the best ski goggles for low light?

Low light, or flat light as they call it on the slopes, ”robs you of depth perception and doesn't allow you to see terrain changes or snow surface variability,” Richardson says. Flat light often occurs when it’s snowing or overcast. But lenses can help make some of the worst days of skiing conditions better.

The color of the lens will determine your visibility. Common lens colors for flat light include rose, yellow, or smoke-tinted, but it all depends on the manufacturer, Richardson says. Flat light and precipitation also go hand-in-hand, which means your goggles will have a higher chance of fogging up, Richardson notes. Be sure your goggles have anti-fog resistance and good ventilation.

What color lens should I get my ski goggles in?

Richardson tells every skier to have at least two lenses: one for sunny days and one for low-light days, and that is all determined by the color of the lens. The tints mentioned above are good for low-light, whereas you’ll go with a dark, grey-toned color when it’s super sunny out.

If you’re looking for an all-in-one lens, Richardson says you’ll end up compromising something depending on the weather. “If you're committed to one, though, I suggest making it a polarized lens,” she says. “They are a game-changer, since they absorb a maximum of dispersed light, thus providing a reflection/glare-free, more clearly defined view.”

How we chose

For the past few months, Women’s Health editors, including editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert and freelance writers Isadora Baum and Georgia Davis have been researching the most popular, Stop-rated ski goggles. Our team consulted other WH editors and ski experts including Kaylin Richardson, Marc Bromhall, Beginner Surf Gear, Mike Humphrey, and Christine Wang for the story.

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