Different brands use different terms to describe their ski goggles, we will try and summarise and simplify to help when deciding which is the best ski goggle for you or your children.
Weather Conditions and Lens Colours
The lens colour affects how much light is allowed through the ski goggles, known as Visible Light Transmission (VLT). Here’s a breakdown of lens colours and their suitability for different weather conditions:
Sunny Conditions
*Dark Lenses: Black, grey, dark brown, dark green, mirrored lenses
*VLT: 5-20%
*Features: Reduces glare and eye strain
*Best for: Bright, sunny days
Partly Cloudy/Variable Conditions:
*Medium Lenses: Amber, rose, yellow, light brown
*VLT: 20-50%
*Features: Offers versatility for changing light conditions
*Best for: Overcast days with occasional sun
Low Light/Cloudy Conditions:
*Light Lenses: Yellow, light rose, light blue, clear
*VLT: 50-100%
*Features: Maximizes light entry, enhances contrast
*Best for: Overcast, snowy, foggy days, or night skiing
Lens Technologies
Polarized Lenses: Reduce glare from reflective surfaces like snow
Best for: Bright, sunny days with lots of reflective glare
Photochromic Lenses: Automatically adjust tint based on lighting conditions
Best for: Variable light conditions
Mirrored Lenses: Have a reflective coating to reduce glare
Best for: Bright sunny days
Prizm/ChromaPop/HD Lenses: Enhances contrast and colour
Best for: Offering a clearer and more vivid view
VLT Ratings and Lens Types
0-19% (Dark Lens): Bright, sunny days
20-40% (Medium Lens): Partly cloudy to sunny conditions
41-60% (Light Lens): Cloudy or overcast days
60%+ (Very Light Lens): Low light or night skiing
Lens Shape
Spherical Lenses: Curved both horizontally and vertically
Benefits: Offers better peripheral vision and reduces distortion
Cylindrical Lenses: Curved horizontally but flat vertically
Benefits: More affordable but may have some distortion
Additional Features Worth Considering
Anti-Fog Coating: Essential for maintaining clear vision in varying temperatures and moisture levels.
Ventilation: Proper airflow helps prevent fogging.
UV Protection: Protects eyes from harmful UV rays.
So to conclude:
For Sunny Days, look for darker tints like black, gray, polarized or mirrored lenses to reduce glare
For Overcast Days, a lens colour of amber, rose, or yellow with a medium VLT to enhance contrast is best.
For Night Skiing, a clear or light yellow with a high VLT for maximum light transmission
For Variable Conditions, investing in photochromic lenses are brilliant as they automatically adjusts to the changes in light.