Photo courtesy of Fullmarks
On snowy mountains, where visibility can be poor due to snowfall or blizzards, and where light can obscure the unevenness of the slopes, goggles are essential for safely enjoying skiing and snowboarding. Important features include anti-fogging and lenses that provide clear visibility. Each manufacturer has released models that utilize a variety of technologies, and we've taken a look at these and introduced some of the goggles selected by the STEEP editorial team for the 2022-23 season
Evolved goggles equipped with high-performance lenses and anti-fog
Sweet Protection | Clockwork
It has many fans thanks to its innovative RIG lens that reduces eye fatigue
The Clockwork features high strength and Sweet Protection's signature RIG lens. The RIG lens minimizes color distortion and reduces eye fatigue with excellent contrast. The 2.8mm thick premium toric sculpted lens provides exceptional impact resistance, ensuring a wide field of view while maintaining a low volume and snug fit in a compact design. The double lens is equipped with GORE® Protective Vents, which prevent deformation of the inner lens due to changes in air pressure, creating an optimal environment for your eyes
*Bonus lens set includes Rig Light Amethyst lens (¥37,400). World Cup version includes race cover (¥38,500)
◆Official Website:https://sputnikshop.jp/pages/sweetprotection-toppage
Sweet Protection｜DURDEN
Wide frame with cylindrical lenses and lightweight design!
This model debuted in the 2022-23 season. Featuring a wide frame and cylindrical flat lens, it offers a relatively wide field of view compared to other Sweet Protection goggles. It utilizes innovative RIG lenses that minimize color distortion with superior contrast, reducing eye strain. Designed
for all-mountain use, it's suitable for a wide range of conditions, from groomed slopes to the backcountry. The model available in Japan features a low-bridge Asian fit with added padding on the nose bridge, minimizing air gaps and providing a secure fit even for those with a low nose bridge. Furthermore, the lens has a hydrophobic and oleophobic coating on the outside, preventing snow and water droplets from sticking to the goggles, even in Japan's wet snow.
◆Official Website:https://sputnikshop.jp/pages/sweetprotection-toppage
POC | NEXAL Clarity
A new flat type goggle with ventilation that can be opened and closed at the top
POC's new model "NEXAL Clarity," released for the 2022-2023 season, is attracting a lot of attention. Its distinctive feature is the soft outrigger frame, which fits comfortably around the edge of the helmet. What's striking about the design is that the frame protrudes slightly in the cheekbone area, widening the surface to fit snugly around the cheekbones, improving the fit. Another attractive feature is the sliding ventilation underneath the inner sponge to keep out the cold air. When it snows, snow can accumulate here and cause condensation, but this is an excellent product that prevents this
◆Official Website:https://www.full-marks.com/poc/
DRAGON｜R1
This frameless model makes it easy to remove snow from the goggles, provides a wide field of view, and provides an excellent fit
¥25,850
A frameless model with a true medium fit that offers an excellent balance of wide field of view and fitting size has been created. It is equipped with "Hydro Armored Vents," which have breathable covers on the ventilation parts to make it easier to remove snow that has accumulated and to prevent damage to the sponge part. Durability has also been improved by considering moisture drainage.
It is equipped with Super Anti-Fog 2.0, an ultra-strong anti-fog technology also used by NASA. Japan Fit that is tailored to the facial structure of Japanese people. The "JAPAN LUMALENS" has a visible light transmittance of 55% and has the optimal brightness and color for Japanese people, so it is also highly reliable. Compatible with eyeglasses. Scheduled for release in September 2022.
◆Official Website:http://www.dragonalliance.jp/
SPY | RAIDER
A model that is incredibly reliable and powerful in the backcountry
Made from a special polyurethane fabric that offers both flexibility and durability, and featuring a SCOOP® ventilation system, these sunglasses create airflow to eliminate sweat and moisture that cause fogging. Their high anti-fog effect makes them especially reliable and powerful in the backcountry. SPY's proprietary "HAPPY lens technology" is utilized in the cylinder dual lenses (with anti-fog), which provide clearer color and contrast perception, enhancing both safety and the enjoyment of skiing.
Other features include a scratch-resistant coating for impact resistance, a 100% UV protection shield to shield eyes from strong sunlight, and moisture-wicking Dryforce fleece and polyurethane foam that wicks away sweat from the face, preventing lens fogging and maintaining comfort. And yet, they are priced in the 10,000 yen range, offering excellent value for money.
SWANS｜RIDGELINE-MDH-CU-LG
NEW! Photochromic Lens "PHOTOCHROMIC ULTRA LIGHT GRAY"
¥33,000
SWANS' popular "RIGELINE" model now features a new lens for the 2022-2023 season. The lens transmittance changes from a clear appearance to the darkness of a deep smoke lens, making it incredibly suitable for all weather conditions. Visible light transmittance ranges from 15% to 55%, providing natural visibility in all situations, from sunny days to snowy days and night skiing. The gray-based lens clearly highlights shadows on the snow surface. This lens will be featured in the "RIDGELINE," "RACAN," and "ROVO" series
◆Official Website:https://www.swans.co.jp
SMITH｜Squad MAG™
The MAG lens change stem allows for instant lens changes
The Squad MAG is a Smith iconic model, the Squad, equipped with the MAG lens change stem.
The MAG lens change system uses a unique technology where N52 magnets magnetically attach to secure the lens. Lenses can be easily removed by simply pressing the locks on either side, allowing for instant lens changes in response to changing weather or conditions. It also features the brand's first 5X™ anti-fog technology on a flat lens.
The glasses also feature SMITH's proprietary ChromaPop lens technology, which controls the three primary colors of light to provide a clearer field of view. The lenses are highly acclaimed for their outstanding clarity of even the smallest details. The fact that two ChromaPop lenses are included as standard (excluding photochromic models) is a welcome addition
◆Official Website:https://smithjapan.co.jp/
SMITH｜4D MAG S
The S version of "4D MAG" is suitable for both men with small faces and women
The 4D MAG goggles, with a design that covers the lenses all the way to the bottom of the goggles, offer a wide field of view in front of you and a clear view down to your feet. For the 2022-2023 season, a smaller version, the 4D MAG S, has been added to the lineup. The 4DMAG™ functions and system remain the same, but in a smaller size. It fits everyone, from men with small faces to women and young adults
The downward field of view is increased by 25%, providing unprecedented visibility. The lens features SMITH's ChromaPop lens and 5X™ anti-fog technology. Two high-contrast ChromaPop lenses ensure clear visibility in any weather. The AirEvac™ function ensures an excellent fit with your helmet
◆Official Website:https://smithjapan.co.jp/
ELECTRIC | ROTECK
Conveniently adjusts the light to be gentle on the eyes. The widest field of view in ELECTRIC history
For the 22-23 season, ELECTRIC is introducing the groundbreaking "TUNED LENS." The name "TUNED LENS" comes from the fact that it removes certain wavelengths of light that can strain the eyes, such as blue light, or cause glare that makes it difficult to see the contours of the snow surface. It tunes the light that enters your eyes to be gentle and convenient. As a result, the ever-changing snow surface conditions and the contours of the terrain are clearly visible. Another
advantage is the wide field of view, thanks to the outrigger design which eliminates the side frames. This wide field of view is the largest in ELECTRIC's history! Made from TPU (Thermo Plastic Urethane) material that does not harden even at low temperatures, it remains soft and conforms to the face even in the extremely cold weather conditions of the snowy mountains. A slit in the nose bridge ensures a fit for any face shape. This is a confident new product from ELECTRIC, a brand popular with connoisseurs, and definitely worth trying.
◆Official Website:https://charlie-trading.co.jp/brands/electric/
A collaborative model that's sure to be a hot topic
GIRO | GIRO X FENDER
A stylish collaboration with the world's leading guitar manufacturer, FENDER
FENDER continues to captivate guitarists and bassists around the world. As you can see, the goggles designed by GIRO in collaboration with FENDER are a stylish flat-lens model. In addition to VIVID lenses that allow you to see gaps in the snow, EXV technology provides a wide field of view. The magnetic system allows for quick and easy lens changes. They are also compatible with eyeglasses (depending on the size of your glasses), and come with one ZEISS VIVID lens for sunny days and one for cloudy days, making them convenient for a variety of situations
◆Official Website:http://giro-japan.com/
GIRO｜GIRO×POW
Collaborative goggles with POW that allow you to participate in environmental efforts
This is a collaboration model between GIRO and POW (Protect of Winter). A portion of the sales will be donated to POW's climate change activities. By using GIRO x POW collaboration goggles, you are participating in environmental efforts.
In addition to its message, it also has high value in terms of functionality. The CONTOUR is a high-spec, high-performance model among GIRO goggles. With a sleek and unconventional toric lens shape and cutting-edge EXV+ technology, it achieves a wide field of view at the same level as what you see with the naked eye. Equipped with a quick-change lens system, lenses can be changed instantly.
One VIVID Infrared lens (for cloudy days) is included.
◆Official Website:http://giro-japan.com/
OAKLEY｜LINE MINER
Invincible goggles that won glory on the stage of the 2022 Beijing Olympics
The LINE MINER is a model equipped with revolutionary lenses that utilize the world's first technology to prevent the mirror from peeling off. The unique pop-up lens ventilation system also provides excellent anti-fog protection, making these highly functional goggles ideal for a wide range of situations, from tough mountain conditions to competitions
At the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, snowboarder Ayumu Hirano, who won the gold medal in the most difficult run in human history in the halfpipe, also wore the LINE MINER. That model sold out immediately, but there's no doubt the popularity of the LINE MINER will continue in the 2022-23 season
◆Official Website:https://www.oakley.com/ja-jp
A unique new model
OUT OF｜Bio Project
All materials except for the lenses are recycled or sustainable. Profits from sales go to support activities
OUTOF's brand message for the 2022-2023 season is the "BIO Project," an environmental initiative in which all materials except for the lenses are made from recycled or sustainable materials. Everything from the frames made from resin made from castor oil, to the straps and goggle cases made from recycled waste materials, is created in an environmentally friendly manner
In addition, profits from the sale of these goggles will be donated to a charity called "SHADES OF LOVE." Purchasing these BIO goggles in Japan will help people living in the high mountains of Tibet and the Himalayas who are struggling with eye health and living conditions. By enjoying skiing using OUT OF goggles, you can contribute to society
You can choose between two types of lenses: instant-dimming Electronic lenses and Zeiss lenses, and there are two strap designs: Leaf and Snow. The Electronic lenses are super lenses, so they are in the high-end price range, but the Zeiss lenses are very reasonably priced
◆Official website/URL:https://out-of.com
SWANS｜RACAN-XED
"XED Series" model equipped with a heat lens on "RACAN"
The "XED Series" model, which is compatible with large glasses, is now available with a heat lens. The lenses, which have a visible light transmittance of 29%, generate heat and are anti-fogging even in harsh environments. They are ideal for backcountry skiing, hiking, and other activities where you sweat or experience bad weather. The device comes with a battery, and the lenses heat up when you press the switch. It can also be used on its own
◆Official Website:https://www.swans.co.jp
ABOM｜HEET
A special built-in sensor measures the humidity inside the goggles, effectively eliminating fogging
GOLD RUSH MIRROR Color: 9 colors available ¥46,200
ABOM's unique, revolutionary anti-fog technology, which uses an electrically heated film to keep the lenses from fogging up, has now been further improved. A special sensor is built into the goggles to measure fogging and humidity levels, actively and efficiently eliminating fogging. This active anti-fog technology, utilizing electronics, truly feels like a new generation of goggles
It can operate continuously for 6 hours with a maximum charging time of 3 hours. The lenses are made of polycarbonate on both the inside and outside, and are highly reliable Carl Zeiss lenses that are scratch-resistant and have a coating that will not peel off even when wiped. There are 9 types of optional lenses, and lens replacement is easy. It is no exaggeration to say that goggles are now electronic products. It is a product that you will want to try out to experience their power
◆Official website:https://www.hasco.co.jp/abom/