When skiing or snowboarding, the goggles protect your eyes from ultraviolet rays while securing your field of view on the pure white snowy mountains. It is one of the important items to protect your safety, such as preventing getting lost due to poor visibility and preventing collisions with other people and trees. That's why I want to know the basics again. Frame shape, fit, ventilation and anti-fog technology, and lens technology. In addition to the points to check when choosing goggles, let's introduce the lens technology that each manufacturer is competing to develop. Use it as a reference when choosing your next goggles.
Functions of each goggle
flame
The frame is there to define the contours of the goggles and protect your face. For this reason, the main material used is TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), which is easy to process, durable, and lightweight. Some brands use carbon or plant-derived plastics. This is used to further increase strength and protect the face, and is used to make products that are considerate of the global environment.
Japan fit
Many goggle brands originated overseas. For that reason, they are made to fit the face shape of Westerners, and the roundness of the forehead and the height of the nose do not suit Japanese people. If you use something that does not fit your face, snow and wind will enter through the gap between the goggles and your face, causing the lenses to fog up. The Asian Fit and Japan Fit models solve this problem. The amount of sponge used adjusts the height of the forehead and nose to match the Japanese face.
Of course, there are things that suit Japanese people even if they are not Japanese fit, and each person has a different face shape, so I would like to add that not all Japanese fit suits all Japanese people. When considering the purchase of goggles, there are many things that you will not know until you actually put them on.
ventilation
Ventilation, that is, the ventilation system.
If the lens fogs up, your visibility will be poor and you won't be able to ski with confidence. Many goggles have vents on the bottom and top of the lens to allow air circulation. Some of the holes are simply covered with sponge, while others are covered with a high-strength material. From the shape of the vents to the cover material, each manufacturer has elaborated various technologies and developments. Also, there are technologies other than ventilation to prevent the lenses from fogging up. The lens itself absorbs moisture to prevent the vapor inside the goggles from saturating. Manufacturers are competing to completely eliminate the "fogging" of lenses, which is the natural enemy of skiers and snowboarders.
sponge
A sponge that enhances cushioning on the face. Different types of sponges are used, and many of them have a 2-layer or 3-layer structure. The sponge on the side closer to the frame is hard and strong, and the sponge on the side that touches the face is soft and has high shock absorption.
lens shape
Lenses are broadly divided into two types: flat lenses and spherical lenses.
Flat lenses have less distortion during lens processing and maintain a clear field of view. Spherical lenses, on the other hand, have the advantage that the curvature of the lens is close to the roundness of the eyeball, so the field of view is close to reality no matter what direction you look at, and the space volume between the lens and the face is less likely to fog up. As mentioned in the section, most people think that there is no big difference because anti-fog technology has improved recently.
band
A band that prevents the goggles from slipping and secures them to the head. Most are made of rubber. In recent years, there are many models that use large frames to expand the field of vision, and as the frames get larger, the weight increases, so there are also types with thicker bands to match. Some models have non-slip silicone on the inside, and some have silicone bands themselves.
lens technology
About double lens
Most people know that most goggles have double lenses.
If there is only one lens, the inside of the lens is warmed by body temperature, while the outside is exposed to the outside air, so the water vapor in the area near the lens inside the goggles is saturated, and the inner lens becomes fine. It becomes water droplets and sticks together. It's the same principle that the windshield fogs up when you get in a car in winter. The reason for sticking two lenses together is to reduce the temperature difference between the outside air and the inside air and prevent fogging.
The outer lens is made of polycarbonate, which has excellent thermoplastic properties.
It has characteristics such as easy mirror coating. Many brands use a material called Lexan Butrate for the inner lens. This is because processing such as anti-fogging is easier.
Difference in appearance due to lens color
The difference in color coating leads to improved visibility by using it properly depending on the weather. It also has the effect of increasing the unevenness of the slope and the contrast. The usage of the main lens colors is as follows.
[Orange]
Easy to see from sunny to cloudy weather
[Yellow]
Ideal for snowfall and cloudy days
[Blue]
Easy to see from sunny to cloudy days.
[Pink type]
Easy to use on slightly sunny to cloudy days
[Black and gray]
to see on sunny days, and the natural color looks as it
Clear ]
Dark with little light such as night games in the situation
"Visible light transmittance" that determines the brightness of goggles」
The higher the altitude of the snowy mountains, the stronger the sunlight. The reflection from the snow surface is also strong. Snow reflects 80% of UV rays compared to 10% of asphalt. In addition to being dazzling, it also has an undesirable effect on the eyes. So the lenses also act like sunglasses, regulating the amount of light.
"Visible light transmittance" is a guideline when adjusting the amount of light that reaches the eye with a lens. The numerical value is adjusted by applying color coating and mirror coating to the lens. 100% for the naked eye and 0% for no light. 10% to 20% on sunny days because the glare is strong. 20% to 40% will be easy to use on snowy days. 60% is recommended for night games.
What is a high contrast lens?
©Lotus International CO.,Ltd.
In recent years, manufacturers have been focusing on the development of "high-contrast lenses." It's a new technology that has become standard in every brand's level of goggles. This technology emphasizes unevenness and shadows on the snow surface by emphasizing, reducing, or intensifying shadows of specific colored rays that enter through the lens. Even in cloudy weather with little light or when it is snowing, the unevenness of the slope can be seen more clearly, making it easier to slip.
For example, as a function of the human eye, it is easier to see the shape and depth of objects in red and green colors than in blue light. Therefore, by cutting blue light and amplifying red and green light, the unevenness of the snow surface and terrain can be seen clearly. Depending on the manufacturer, there are various methods such as which colored light beams are adjusted and how. There are various processing methods for high-contrast lenses.
What is a photochromic lens?
Photochromic lenses are lenses that change color in response to the amount of ultraviolet light or visible light. It is characterized by a darker color when exposed to strong light or ultraviolet rays, and a lighter color when indoors. The lens is coated with a light-modulating film, or a coating containing a photosensitive substance that changes color when exposed to ultraviolet rays or when the temperature rises. Therefore, when you look at the dazzling snow surface under the sun, the color becomes darker, making it easier to see the unevenness of the slope. It is convenient because there is no need to change goggles or lenses according to the brightness.
What are polarized lenses?
"Polarized lenses" are lenses that eliminate glare by cutting diffused reflection of light. A film called a polarizing film sandwiched in the lens cuts only the reflection of light and improves the field of vision. When it's sunny on the snow, it's very dazzling due to the reflection of light. Photochromic lenses do not have a function to suppress diffused reflection, so this is the major difference between photochromic lenses and polarized lenses.
Lens technology boasted by a goggle maker
The decisive factor in the quality of goggles is still the lens. Lens technology continues to evolve as each manufacturer competes to develop lens technology. Let's take a look at the lens technology each manufacturer boasts about.
VIVID lens
GIRO and ZEISS, a world authority in the field of optics, jointly developed the "VIVID lens". It is an excellent lens with the ability to skillfully control blue light, which is generally said to make things difficult to see, and to clarify the contrast. "Skillfully controlled" means that blue light is effectively manipulated by letting in blue light, which enhances contrast in blue light, and blocking harmful UV light.
VIVID lenses also have the advantage of eliminating blurry vision and reducing eye fatigue. By giving an accurate vision without color saturation, the field of view becomes clearer, and you can see the running line firmly and enjoy a comfortable ride.
▼Explanatory video of VIVID lens technology
Model with VIVID lens | REVOLT
Popular model equipped with GIRO's VIVID lens. She has a clear and wide field of vision, an Asian fit that is comfortable to wear, and in addition to being highly designed, the price range is very reasonable. The 2023-2024 season's new "REVOLT" has a novel design inspired by motocross, and there are 16 unique design variations with attention to detail.
The lens uses ZEISS VIVID flat double lenses unique to GIRO, and spare lenses are also available in 5 colors (¥12,100), so you can arrange them according to the weather and your vision. The EXV+ technology ensures a wide field of vision without being conscious of the frame.
◆Official HP／ //giro-japan.com/
Chromapop Lens
It can be seen clearly by increasing the color contrast and making the color clear
Smith is proud of "Chromapop lens technology".
This technology controls the areas where the wavelengths of the three primary colors of light (red, green, and blue) cross over, and expresses vivid colors to make objects appear clearer. By increasing the color contrast and sharpening the colors, the object can be expressed clearly and stand out. The difference between the normal state here and the state seen with the chromapop lens is clear.
Another advantage is that the range of coverage is wider than that of a normal lens. When the weather suddenly changes in the mountains, or when you spend long hours from morning to evening, the tone of the light changes constantly depending on the position of the sun. Being able to maintain a wide range of good visibility is easy to use and provides a high sense of security.
▼ Commentary video of chroma pop lens technology (you can understand it better by watching with subtitles set to "Japanese" from about 1 minute)
Chromapop lens equipped model｜Squad MAG™
Squad XL, a large size flat lens model with a particularly wide field of view above and below. The Squad is a simple and compact model that is especially popular with the younger generation. The technology is equipped with SMITH's proprietary "ChomaPop Technology" that allows you to clearly see objects by controlling the areas where the wavelengths of the three primary colors of light, red, green, and blue, overlap to express vivid colors. The quality that can be handled is also perfect. Two chromapop lenses are standard equipment.
The photo is a collaboration model with THE NORTH FACE that appeared in the 2023-2024 season. In addition to shifting to a more affordable price range, this season's featured item is full of great deals that come with THE NORTH FACE bag.
◆ Official HP / https://smithjapan.co.jp/
RIG® Lens Technology
Innovative lenses that reduce eye fatigue
RIG lenses are excellent because they increase contrast for better visibility and reduce eye fatigue by blocking harmful rays. All made with the same transmittance and curves, but optimized for different lighting conditions, from extreme flat light to extreme sunny weather.
▼Explanatory video of RIG lens technology
▼ Video explaining the color lineup and performance features of RIG lenses
Model with RIG lens｜Connor RIG
In the 2023-2024 season, a new model named "Connor RIG" with the same size as "Clockwork", which features high strength and RIG lens, has a much wider field of view. It is frameless and finished in a design that is somewhat luxurious. The model sold in Japan has a low bridge fit with a foam pad added to the nose bridge, and the fit to the face is higher. This season's brand's most recommended item.
◆ Official HP / https://sputnikshop.jp/pages/sweetprotection-toppage
ULTRA LENS
Technology boasted by a long-established Japanese manufacturer
Yamamoto Kogaku is Japan's leading eyewear manufacturer with over 110 years of tradition.
We supply sunglasses, goggles, and helmets for various sports. We have the technology because we know everything about the Japanese mind and eyes from many years of research and development. SWANS' proud lens is the ULTRA LENS, which is effective in bad weather such as snow and rain. By emphasizing a specific color gamut according to the purpose and application, this lens has the function of making the subject appear sharper and improving visibility. If you watch the video below, it's obvious that it's much easier to see in a flat light.
▼ ULTRA LENS explanatory video
ULTRA PHOTOCHROMIC
Prevents glare while maintaining visibility
In addition, "ULTRA PHOTOCHROMIC", which is a combination of ULTRA LENS and a photochromic lens, is a popular SWANS standard lens.
This is a lens based on SWANS' unique concept that combines the function of changing color (dimming) according to changes in the environment and the function of ULTRA LENS' ability to withstand bad weather. In particular, it has features that have evolved from general photochromic lenses, such as "fast response to color change" and "response to even a small amount of ultraviolet light." It is the perfect lens for the snowy mountains of Japan, where the weather changes rapidly.
▼ ULTRA PHOTOCHROMIC rider impression video
Model with ULTRA PHOTOCHROMIC | PHOTOCHROMIC ULTRA LIGHT GRAY
¥33,000
"ULTRA PHOTOCHROMIC" appeared in the popular SWANS model "RIGELINE" in the 2022-23 season. It is an amazing all-weather lens that changes the transmittance of the lens from a clear appearance to a deep smoke lens-like darkness. Visible light transmittance ranges from 15% to 55%, and you can get natural vision in all situations, from fine weather to snowy days and night games. The gray-based lens makes the shadows of the snow surface stand out well. This lens will be installed in the "RIDGELINE", "RACAN" and "ROVO" series.
◆ Official HP / https://www.swans.co.jp
"THE ONE" LENS
Innovative super lens with dimming and polarization
In the 2021-2022 season, OUT OF attracted worldwide attention with its world's first high technology called "instantaneous dimming". The lens of "THE ONE", which can be said to be an icon model of OUT OF, is a super lens that boasts innovative technology that incorporates the functions of a polarized lens and a photochromic lens into the outer lens for the first time in the world.
When the light is weak, the color of the lens becomes light, and when the light is sunny and the light is strong, the lens changes to dark. With high-level dimming technology, you can always get a comfortable view by responding to all weather and brightness. In bad weather, the yellow light and high transmittance through a polarizing filter improve contrast and prevent whiteout.
THE ONE equipped model | VOID REVOLVE
Revolve
THE ONE FUOCO
Color: 3 colors ¥31,900
Equipped with a multi-purpose "THE ONE" LENS that combines polarization and dimming, it can be used in a variety of situations. It is a popular model that represents OUT OF. It seems to be a brand from Italy, and it looks stylish anyway. There are bands with stylish forms and graphics that look like art works, and they have a unique view of the world that combines functionality and fashion.
TUNED LENS
Tune the light conveniently and comfortably on your eyes
ELECTRIC is a top brand that is passionately supported by surfers, skaters and artists for its sophisticated design and brand image. The Kleveland and The Kleveland II models, named after legendary rider Marcus Kleveland, are very popular among snowboarders. It has become a high-grade brand.
The epoch-making lens "TUNED LENS" which came up from this ELECTRIC in the 2022-23 season. This lens removes certain colors from the wavelength of light that make your eyes tired like blue light or make it difficult to see irregularities on the snow surface due to diffuse reflection, making the light that enters your eyes easier and more convenient. It will tune you. Its excellent performance makes it easy to clearly see the ever-changing snow surface conditions and terrain irregularities. The appearance of new technology lenses from popular brands is attracting a lot of attention.
Model with TUNED LENS | ROTECK
Outriggers without side frames create a wide width in the horizontal direction, and the field of vision is overwhelmingly wide. The area is the largest level in the history of ELECTRIC! Made of TPU (Thermo Plastic Urethane) material that does not harden even at low temperatures, it is soft and adapts to the face even in the extremely cold weather conditions of snowy mountains. There is a slit in the nose bridge, so it fits any face shape.
◆ Official HP / https://charlie-trading.co.jp/brands/electric/