Released as a quick-change variation of the classic I/O, the goggle features superb optics with an expansive field of view, comes with two lenses, has an extremely comfortable fit, and is one of the best ventilators we’ve tested. A lens made for snowy and overcast days will amplify what light there is, increasing contrast, helping you to see more of the terrain around you. With big players like Anon (Burton), Smith, and Oakley dominating the goggle scene, it’s a tough place to break through.

But if you match it with a Scott helmet and aren’t as picky about your optics, the rest of the LCG Evo’s performance and build quality stack up well to the class leaders.

The large, angled brim on the Bern Watts is one of the worst offenders and limits its compatibility to mostly medium-sized goggles. With their very refined style, these women ski goggles come with a dual spherical lens and an anti-fog treatment for an unlimited field of view. The advantage of a toric lens is largely aesthetic, and it will appeal to folks that don’t like the bug-eye look of a spherical lens but still want the rounded shape. This carrier is not currently accepted in-network online, please refer to the information below on how to submit an out-of-network claim for reimbursement from your insurance. If there is too much gap between the two it can cause air to get through making it very cold and uncomfortable, or even lead to a very embarrassing sun tan line.

Optics fall towards the middle of the pack—in favorable conditions and for night skiing, the two included lenses covered the bases, but we found the mirrored option (LumaLens Red Ion) was rather dull and made it hard to pull out small bumps and details in shadowed sections on the hill.

It’s important to remember that wearing goggles or sunglasses will protect the eyes against both short-term and long-term damage caused by the sun, in a similar way that sun cream protects the skin. For those who put a premium on maximum field of vision—such as riders who spend a lot of time in difficult terrain off-piste or in the bumps—the 4D Mag is a nice option. With a triple layer moulded foam seal, the Summit ski goggles will provide unrivalled comfort, whilst the flexing side clip ensures that they are fully helmet compatible. Spherical lenses do give the goggle a taller profile with its bubble-like shape, and while it’s a matter of personal preference, we like the look most of the time when it’s paired with a ski helmet. For hard chargers or those that hit the slopes without regard to the weather report, this adaptability is a big upside.

Most purchases from business sellers are protected by the Consumer Contract Regulations 2013 which give you the right to cancel the purchase within 14 days after the day you receive the item. But if you can get a good fit, the Julbo’s combination of versatile optics and truly impressive ventilation makes it a great do-it-all resort and backcountry option.

Wearing ski goggles for hours on end can result in big marks around the eyes, which can be avoided if you choose a pair with additional padding at the front.

For the best levels of comfort and warmth, there should only be a small gap between your helmet and goggles to keep your forehead from getting cold. The Quattroflex Lite technology clearly emphasises contours in the snow and makes it easier to recognise ice sheets.

The OTG goggles are also deeper than your classic goggles and feature extra spaces to allow you to fit your glasses inside. And a frameless goggle like the Oakley Flight Deck admittedly does have expansive views (at the compromise of a little more vulnerability to damage at the edges).