Goggles Galore: An Epic Guide to Smith Goggle Lenses


Photo courtesy of Smith
TL;DR: Looking for the perfect Smith goggle lens color and tint? Dive into our guide to understand the nuances, ask the right questions, and make an informed decision. Whether you're hitting the slopes, cruising on your bike, or exploring the trails, your vision matters. Let's ensure you pick the perfect lens for your next adventure.
Hey there, adventure seekers! I'm Branin, your trusty guide in the vast wilderness of outdoor gear. With more than 20 years under my belt, conquering everything from snow-capped peaks to untamed trails, I've become somewhat of an expert in picking the right gear to elevate my outdoor experience. Today, I'm sharing some of my wisdom on why nailing the Smith goggle lens color is more crucial than deciding what trail to blaze next.
What's the Hype About Smith Goggle Lens Color and Tint?
Ever wondered why Smith goggle lenses have a spectrum of colors and tints? Copper base tints, red sensor mirror, universal lens tint. What does it all mean? Well, buckle up because each hue is crafted for specific lighting conditions and activities. Smith has got it all covered, from depth perception to eye fatigue and even glare protection. It's like having a personalized visual superhero for every adventure. From dawn patrol to sunset shredding, understanding these variations is your ticket to an epic visual journey.
Smith offers three different goggle lens shapes:
- Cylindrical Lenses: These lenses curve only on the horizontal axis, meaning they curve from left to right across your face but not up and down.
- Spherical Lenses: Spherical lenses curve in both the horizontal and vertical axis. The left to right curve, as well as the up and down curve, increases your peripheral view, while the increased surface area helps to prevent fogging.
- BirdsEye Vision: The BirdsEye Vision design is found exclusively on the 4D MAG and the 4D MAG S. With this lens, the bottom portion of the lens curves downward toward the face, giving you a 25% increased view when compared to other spherical lenses.
What to Consider when Buying Smith Goggle Lenses
If you’re looking for some new eye protection, there are a few things more to consider than just how cool they look on your face. Make sure to ask yourself the following questions.
Where Will You Be Using Them?
Imagine choosing your lens color like you're casting a spell for the perfect adventure. Different terrains and lighting conditions demand specific lens colors. Whether you're carving up bright snow, ripping through the park in variable weather, or venturing into cloudy low-light backcountry, your lens choice matters.
What Light Conditions Do You Ride in Most?
Let's talk about the mood lighting for your adventure. The amount of light that reaches your eyes is called VLT or visible light transmission. Each lens tint has its own VLT performance in various light conditions – from different levels of low-light conditions to the harsh glare of high elevation sun. It's like picking the soundtrack for your outdoor escapade.
What Types of Snow Activities Are You Into?
Tailor your choice to the activity like a bespoke suit. The light wavelengths will differ when boarding on a bluebird day or conquering heavy snow and cloudy conditions during a backcountry tour. Your adventure needs the right gear, and your goggles are no exception.
Will These New Lenses Fit?
Not all lenses fit every goggle model. Before committing to a lens, make sure it's a match made in outdoor heaven with your specific Smith goggles. Compatibility is key – you wouldn't want a square peg in a round hole, right? Smith also offers MAG Snow Goggles, which use magnets to guide the lens into a secure placement, allowing you to swap lenses on the go.
What is My Budget?
Money talks, especially when it comes to goggles. Figure out your budget and ask, "How much should a Smith goggle lens cost?" Unravel the mysteries of common price points and the magical features each level unveils.
Different Types of Smith Goggle Lenses
Smith dazzles us with a range of lens options, each a maestro in its own light. Most Smith lenses combine a tinted outer lens with a photochromic inner lens. Let's break down the vibrant types of color confusion:
Photo courtesy of Smith
1. ChromaPop Everyday:
Photo courtesy of Smith
ChromaPop Everyday is Smith’s version of the all-around everyday use lens. With a huge range of color options within the ChromaPop Everyday family, you’ll find the right look for your style and the frames you like.
Benefits:
- Enhanced color and clarity – like upgrading from regular vision to HD.
- Many color options - With over eight color options to choose from, you’ll be styling.
Be Aware:
- Ideal for various conditions, but might not be the superhero in extreme brightness.
2. ChromaPop Sun:
Photo courtesy of Smith
ChromaPop Sun is best used for those extra sunny conditions when eye protection is most needed.
Benefits:
- Maximum polarization for protection from harmful UVA rays on those days when the sun is throwing its best.
- Huge range of color options.
Be Aware:
- Not the go-to for low-light conditions – save it for the spotlight moments.
3. ChromaPop Storm:
Photo courtesy of Smith
ChromaPop Storm lenses are for the days when the snow won’t let up or when the clouds just won’t part. ChromaPop Storm allows more light to filter in, giving you sharper vision in low-light conditions.
Benefits:
- Increased contrast and visibility, perfect for when Mother Nature dims the lights.
- Huge range of color options
Be Aware:
- Might not be the Rockstar in blindingly bright conditions – think of it as your nighttime goggles.
Features to Geek Out About When Buying Smith Goggle Lenses
Anti-Fog Coating:
Like having a magical defogging spell, look for lenses with anti-fog coatings for crystal-clear vision in various conditions.
UV Protection:
Shield your eyes from the sun's rays – ensure the lens provides adequate UV protection for your peepers.
Impact Resistance:
For the daredevils among us, consider the durability of the lens, especially if your idea of fun involves high-impact activities.
For more geeking out, check out this video from SportRx For an in-depth look.
Choosing Your Perfect Match: Real Stories, Real Lenses
Over the years, I've played matchmaker for friends, family, and even new friends I met on the trail. Let me share the tales of three riders and the lenses that became their trusty sidekicks.
Allen: The Snowboard Noob
Allen is a friend of mine who occasionally dips into the snowboarding world. Destined to be stuck forever at the “Noob” level. He needed a versatile lens tint in his go-to goggle that would work in a range of conditions.
Features Allen should look for:
- Enhanced color and clarity help Allen navigate the slopes with confidence.
Lens Match: ChromaPop Everyday Rose Gold Mirror Frame Match: Smith Squad S Goggles
Austin: The Ski Patrol Hero
Austin is on the mountain four days a week throughout the snowy season. When he’s not carting out the occasional overdone rider, he’s cruising around looking for danger spots. He needed a few lens options to keep his vision sharp.
Features Allen should look for:
- Maximum polarization ensures Austin's vision is as sharp as his avalanche skills on those bright and sunny days.
Lens Match: ChromaPop Sun Red Mirror, ChromaPop Storm Rose Flash Frame Match: 4D MAG
Kel: The First-Time Explorer:
Kel is a first-time snowboarder at nine years old. He and his dad usually head up the mountain in favorable conditions, which leads me to recommend Smith’s ChromaPop Sun.
Features Allen should look for:
- Increased contrast and visibility make Kel feel like a seasoned explorer, even in low-light conditions.
Lens Match: ChromaPop Sun Platinum Mirror Coating Frame Match: Smith Daredevil Goggles Kids’
Find Your Visual Nirvana
Your choice of Smith goggle lens color is the secret sauce to elevate your outdoor escapades. Consider the environment, lighting, and your specific activity to find the lens that vibes with your adventure spirit. Need a guiding hand in this kaleidoscopic journey? Reach out here on Curated – there are many Snowboarding & Ski Experts who have got your back, or rather, your eyes!