Goggles protect your eyes from wind, snow, and UV — and they help you see terrain definition on flat-light days when everything looks the same. The right lens can turn a whiteout into a rideable day. Here's how to choose.
Lens colour and VLT
VLT (Visible Light Transmission) is the percentage of light that passes through the lens. Lower VLT = darker lens = less light. Higher VLT = lighter lens = more light.
| VLT | Lens type | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 5–20% | Dark, mirror | Bright sun, bluebird days |
| 20–40% | Amber, rose, copper | Variable light, overcast |
| 40–60% | Yellow, pink, light amber | Low light, flat light, storm days |
| 60%+ | Clear, light yellow | Night skiing, very dark conditions |
Low light / flat light: Yellow, rose, amber, or pink lenses. They boost contrast and help you see bumps and terrain when everything looks flat. Essential for cloudy days and storm skiing.
Bright / sunny: Dark or mirror lenses. They cut glare and reduce eye strain. Great for bluebird days and high-altitude sun.
All-around: If you only want one lens, aim for 30–50% VLT — amber, rose, or copper. It won't be perfect in extreme conditions, but it'll work most of the time. Many riders also opt for photochromic lenses that adjust to light conditions automatically.
Fit with helmet
Goggles and helmets are designed to work together. The goggle strap should sit against the back of the helmet without gaps. The frame should seal against your face — no gap at the top where snow or wind can get in.
Try them together. If you already have a helmet, bring it when you buy goggles. Some goggle brands design frames to pair with specific helmet shapes (e.g. Oakley with POC). You don't need a matching set, but compatibility matters.
OTG (Over-the-Glasses): If you wear glasses, look for OTG goggles with extra space in the frame. Some goggles have a cutout or deeper frame to accommodate glasses. Alternatively, consider prescription inserts that clip inside the goggle.
Frame size and shape
Goggles come in different sizes — small, medium, large — and shapes. A frame that's too small can pinch your nose or cheeks; too large can let in wind and snow. Try a few on. The frame should sit comfortably without pressure points and create a seal around your face.
Cylindrical vs spherical lenses
- Cylindrical: Curved in one direction. Lighter and cheaper. Fine for most riders.
- Spherical: Curved in two directions, like a bubble. Reduces distortion at the edges and can improve peripheral vision. Often found in higher-end goggles.
Both work. Spherical is a nice upgrade if you're willing to pay for it, but cylindrical is perfectly adequate for most people.
Interchangeable lenses
Many goggles let you swap lenses. Buy a second lens for different conditions — e.g. a dark lens for sunny days and a yellow lens for flat light. It's cheaper than buying two pairs of goggles and lets you adapt to the weather.
Find the right goggles
Browse helmets and goggles on Boardom. Every listing includes condition details and buyer protection. Pair them with a helmet that fits — and you're set for the season.