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

Published on 02/11/2024 · 5 min readCompare Smith Squad MAG Goggles and Smith I/O MAG XL Goggles. Get expert insight below!
Lucia L, Ski Expert
Gunnar O, Ski Expert
Clint Hobbs, Snowboarding Expert
Contributed By Ski Expert Lucia L, Gunnar O, Clint Hobbs, Mari Malin, Austin W and others

VS

 

Side by side comparison

Smith Squad MAG Goggles
Smith I/O MAG XL Goggles
Price
$171.50
30% off
$192.50
30% off
Color options
+ 8
+ 3
User rating
4.71(299)
4.73(491)
The Curated Take

Best for skiers who want fog-free goggles with easy lens interchangeability.

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

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

In the world of winter sports, goggles are a crucial piece of gear. Today, we're comparing two top-tier options from Smith: the Squad MAG Goggles and the I/O MAG XL Goggles. Both goggles are packed with advanced features, but they cater to different needs and preferences. The Squad MAG Goggles are known for their quick lens change system, anti-fog capabilities, and seamless fit with Smith helmets. On the other hand, the I/O MAG XL Goggles offer a wider field of view, ChromaPop technology for enhanced contrast, and are also compatible with glasses. While both goggles are excellent choices, the Squad MAG might be better for those who prioritize a seamless helmet fit and anti-fog features, while the I/O MAG XL could be the go-to for those needing a wider field of view and glasses compatibility.

The Smith Squad MAG Goggles are a game-changer in the world of winter sports. These goggles are equipped with a magnetic lens system, allowing for quick and easy lens changes. Just push in on the two tabs at the bottom, pull the lens out, and pop the new one in. The goggles come in a variety of styles and offer the option to order a spare lens.

The Squad MAG Goggles feature cylindrical Carbonic X lenses, which eliminate distortion and provide enhanced impact protection. This is a great feature for those adventurous skiers or snowboarders who love ripping through the glades and need that extra protection from branches.

The goggles also boast ChromaPop lens technology, which enhances color and contrast, refocusing the eye back onto the RGB spectrum and eliminating confusing colors. This technology is present in both the normal lens and the spare lens.

The Squad MAG Goggles are designed with a five times anti-fog coating on the inner lens and three layers of dry Wicks foam on the back. This combination helps to wick moisture off your face, further enhancing the anti-fog capabilities. The goggles also have an extra thick strap for security, with silicone on the inside for added grip.

The thing I love most about these goggles is that I have never had problems with them fogging up. This made it all worth it to me.

Lucia L
Ski Expert

The Smith I/O MAG XL Goggles are another top-tier option for winter sports enthusiasts. These goggles are unique due to their photochromatic lenses, which change with the light. On a sunny day, the lenses darken, and on a cloudy day, they lighten. This feature is a game-changer for those who ski or snowboard in variable weather conditions.

The I/O MAG XL Goggles also feature a magnetic lens system, similar to the Squad MAG. This system allows for quick and easy lens changes, making it a breeze to adapt to changing light conditions.

The goggles are designed with a spherical Carbonic X lens, which offers a wide, distortion-free field of view and incredible impact resistance. The goggles also feature ChromaPop technology, which enhances contrast and natural color, making it easier to see in low visibility conditions.

The I/O MAG XL Goggles are also OTG (over the glasses) compatible, making them a versatile option for those who wear glasses.

The Smith I/O Mag XL is like switching from regular to extra-wide screen. Made for users with larger faces or those looking for the widest field of view.

Gunnar O
Ski Expert

Similarities

Both the Smith Squad MAG Goggles and the Smith I/O MAG XL Goggles are high-quality options packed with advanced features. They both feature Smith's MAG system, which uses magnets to allow for quick and easy lens changes. This is a great feature for those who often find themselves in changing light conditions.

Both goggles also feature ChromaPop technology, which enhances contrast and natural color, making it easier to see in low visibility conditions. They also both have Carbonic X lenses, which offer a wide, distortion-free field of view and incredible impact resistance.

Both goggles are designed to integrate well with helmets, reducing fogging and ensuring a comfortable fit. They also both come with two lenses - one for bright light and one for low light - providing unmatched clarity and detail in any alpine condition.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While the Smith Squad MAG Goggles and the Smith I/O MAG XL Goggles share many similarities, they also have key differences that make them suitable for different types of users.

The Squad MAG Goggles are known for their anti-fog capabilities, thanks to the five times anti-fog coating on the inner lens and three layers of dry Wicks foam on the back. This makes them a great choice for those who often find themselves in humid or sweaty conditions. They also have a seamless fit with Smith helmets, making them a great choice for those who already own or plan to buy a Smith helmet.

On the other hand, the I/O MAG XL Goggles offer a wider field of view, making them a great choice for those who want to see as much of the mountain as possible. They also have photochromatic lenses, which change with the light, making them a great choice for those who often ski or snowboard in variable weather conditions. Additionally, the I/O MAG XL Goggles are OTG compatible, making them a versatile option for those who wear glasses.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to lens change system, both goggles are winners as they both feature Smith's MAG system, which allows for quick and easy lens changes.

In terms of anti-fog capabilities, the Squad MAG Goggles take the lead with their five times anti-fog coating and three layers of dry Wicks foam.

For field of view, the I/O MAG XL Goggles are the clear winner with their wider field of view and photochromatic lenses that adapt to changing light conditions.

Finally, in terms of compatibility with glasses, the I/O MAG XL Goggles are the winners as they are OTG compatible, making them a versatile option for those who wear glasses.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Smith Squad MAG Goggles and the Smith I/O MAG XL Goggles are top-tier options packed with advanced features. The right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a seamless helmet fit and anti-fog features, the Squad MAG might be the better choice for you. If you need a wider field of view and glasses compatibility, the I/O MAG XL could be your go-to. Either way, you can't go wrong with either of these high-quality goggles from Smith. Happy skiing and snowboarding!

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Shop Winter Sports on Curated

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