Expert Comparison: Smith Squad XL Goggles vs Smith I/O MAG XL Goggles

Published on 02/05/2024 · 5 min readCompare Smith Squad XL Goggles and Smith I/O MAG XL Goggles. Get expert insight below!
Mac MacKinnon, Snowboarding Expert
Bill Mangum, Ski Expert
Johnny Sheffler, Snowboarding Expert
Contributed By Snowboarding Expert Mac MacKinnon, Bill Mangum, Johnny Sheffler, Mari Malin, Claire Rogers and others

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Side by side comparison

Best seller
Smith Squad XL Goggles
Smith I/O MAG XL Goggles
Price
$105.00
30% off
$192.50
30% off
Color options
+ 8
+ 3
User rating
4.25(4)
4.73(491)
The Curated Take

Best for those who prefer larger fit and enhanced peripheral vision.

Best for skiers and snowboarders who need enhanced visibility in variable weather conditions.

Frame size
Large
Large, OTG (Over The Glasses)
Lens type
Cylindrical
Spherical

In the world of snow goggles, the Smith Squad XL and Smith I/O MAG XL are two top contenders. Both offer exceptional clarity, versatility, and comfort, but they each have their unique strengths. The Smith Squad XL is praised for its ChromaPop lens technology, anti-fog film, and interchangeable lenses. On the other hand, the Smith I/O MAG XL stands out with its photochromatic lenses, magnetic lens change system, and OTG compatibility. While both goggles are excellent choices, the Smith Squad XL is a more budget-friendly option, while the Smith I/O MAG XL offers more advanced features for a higher price.

The Smith Squad XL Goggles are a game-changer in the world of snow goggles. The first thing that stands out is the ChromaPop lens technology. This feature allows for a higher definition of colors, providing unrivaled clarity that is second to none. The lens is also equipped with a five times anti-fog film, ensuring that your vision remains clear even in the most challenging conditions.

The Smith Squad XL Goggles also come with an additional lens, making them versatile for different weather conditions. The strap has a silicone backing, ensuring that the goggles stay in place, whether you're wearing a helmet or a beanie. The Dry X foam adds to the comfort and practicality of these goggles, as it doesn't hold moisture, even when completely soaked.

The goggles also come with a bag that has an internal sleeve, keeping the replacement lens separate from the goggles. This thoughtful design ensures that your field of vision remains unblemished.

The Smith Squad XL Goggles are tailored for those seeking exceptional clarity and protection on the slopes. The ChromaPop lens technology delivers vivid and sharp visuals, enhancing the overall skiing or snowboarding experience.

Mac MacKinnon
Snowboarding Expert
Best seller

Smith Squad XL Goggles

$105.00$150.00
30% off
  • We price match
  • Returnable

The Smith I/O MAG XL Goggles are another top contender in the snow goggles market. These goggles are unique due to their photochromatic lenses, which change with the light. This means that on a sunny day, the lenses will darken, and on a cloudy day, they will lighten, providing optimal visibility in all conditions.

The magnetic feature of these goggles makes changing lenses a breeze. With a simple push, you can pop the lenses out and the magnetic feature will clip them back in. This makes it easy to adapt to changing weather conditions on the slopes.

The Smith I/O MAG XL Goggles also feature ChromaPop technology, which enhances contrast and color, providing a better view of the terrain. These goggles are also OTG compatible, meaning they can comfortably fit over glasses.

The Smith I/O Mag is one of the latest lenses with all of the great no fog treatments, the Chromo Pop for visibility in the most difficult conditions, and a magnetic lens that is supper easy to swap out. There are two lenses included with the purchase. One for very low light and one for all the other conditions.

Bill Mangum
Ski Expert

Similarities

Both the Smith Squad XL and Smith I/O MAG XL goggles are designed with the user's comfort and visibility in mind. They both feature ChromaPop technology, which enhances contrast and color, providing a better view of the terrain. Both goggles also come with an additional lens, making them versatile for different weather conditions.

Both goggles are designed to fit comfortably, whether you're wearing a helmet or a beanie. They also both have anti-fog features, ensuring that your vision remains clear even in the most challenging conditions.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both goggles are excellent choices, they cater to different needs and budgets. The Smith Squad XL is a more budget-friendly option, making it a great choice for beginners or those who don't want to splurge on goggles. It offers excellent clarity and versatility, with features like the ChromaPop lens and anti-fog film.

On the other hand, the Smith I/O MAG XL offers more advanced features for a higher price. Its photochromatic lenses and magnetic lens change system make it a top choice for serious skiers and snowboarders who are willing to invest in high-quality equipment. It's also a great option for those who wear glasses, thanks to its OTG compatibility.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to clarity, both goggles perform exceptionally well, thanks to the ChromaPop technology. However, the Smith I/O MAG XL takes the lead with its photochromatic lenses, which adapt to changing light conditions.

In terms of versatility, both goggles come with an additional lens, making them adaptable to different weather conditions. But the Smith I/O MAG XL's magnetic lens change system makes swapping lenses quicker and easier.

As for comfort, both goggles are designed to fit comfortably, whether you're wearing a helmet or a beanie. But the Smith I/O MAG XL's OTG compatibility makes it a more comfortable option for those who wear glasses.

Finally, in terms of price, the Smith Squad XL is the clear winner. It offers excellent features at a more affordable price, making it a great choice for those on a budget.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Smith Squad XL and Smith I/O MAG XL goggles are top contenders in the world of snow goggles. They both offer exceptional clarity, versatility, and comfort. The Smith Squad XL is a more budget-friendly option, while the Smith I/O MAG XL offers more advanced features for a higher price.

If you're a beginner or on a budget, the Smith Squad XL is a great choice. It offers excellent clarity and versatility, with features like the ChromaPop lens and anti-fog film.

On the other hand, if you're a serious skier or snowboarder willing to invest in high-quality equipment, the Smith I/O MAG XL is the way to go. Its photochromatic lenses, magnetic lens change system, and OTG compatibility make it a top choice.

In the end, the choice between the Smith Squad XL and Smith I/O MAG XL depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. But no matter which one you choose, you're sure to have a great time on the slopes!

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Shop Goggles on Curated

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Smith Squad Goggles
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