Expert Comparison: Smith I/O MAG Goggles vs Oakley Flight Deck L Goggles

Published on 02/13/2024 · 5 min readCompare Smith I/O MAG Goggles and Oakley Flight Deck L Goggles. Get expert insight below!
max pilling, Ski Expert
Clint Hobbs, Snowboarding Expert
Chris D., Ski Expert
Contributed By Ski Expert max pilling, Clint Hobbs, Chris D., Scott Odle, Grant K and others

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Side by side comparison

Smith I/O MAG Goggles
Out of stock
Oakley Flight Deck L Goggles
Price
$192.50
30% off
$216.00
Color options
+ 7
+ 6
User rating
4.5(4)
5(1)
The Curated Take

Best for those who want a wide field of view and high contrast vision in any light condition.

Best for those needing maximum field of view and peripheral vision.

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

In the world of snow goggles, the Smith I/O MAG and Oakley Flight Deck L are two top contenders. Both offer high-quality lenses, excellent fit, and innovative features that enhance your experience on the slopes. The Smith I/O MAG stands out with its magnetic lens system, ChromaPop technology, and excellent fit with Smith helmets. On the other hand, the Oakley Flight Deck L impresses with its wide field of view, Prizm lens technology, and seamless helmet compatibility. While both goggles are excellent choices, the Smith I/O MAG may be the better option for those who frequently face variable light conditions and want the convenience of a magnetic lens system. However, the Oakley Flight Deck L is a solid choice for those who prioritize a wide field of view and high-contrast vision.

The Smith I/O MAG Goggles are a marvel of design and technology. They come in three different sizes (I/O, iOS, and io Excel), ensuring a perfect fit for any face shape or size. The strap is thick and features two silicone bands to prevent slippage on your helmet or head. Smith has also incorporated a convenient buckle at the back, allowing you to easily clip the goggles into position.

One of the standout features of the Smith I/O MAG Goggles is the magnetic lens system. With a simple click of a tab, you can pop out the lens and replace it with another. This is particularly useful when dealing with changing light conditions on the slopes. The goggles come with two lenses: a low-light lens featuring Smith's ChromaPop technology and a photochromic lens that changes tint based on the amount of light it's exposed to.

The ChromaPop technology enhances your visual experience by providing high contrast and vivid colors. The goggles also have multiple layers of foam to block out wind and snow, ensuring your lenses stay clear and your vision unobstructed.

These lenses will last you for ages. Smith has been known to make some of the best lenses on the market. The chroma pop lens allows you to see a lot more details and contrast on stormy days, so you can see every bump and jump in your way.

max pilling
Ski Expert

Smith I/O MAG Goggles

$192.50$275.00
30% off
  • We price match
  • Returnable

The Oakley Flight Deck L Goggles are another top-tier option for snow enthusiasts. They feature a large fit that maximizes your field of view, ensuring you won't miss a single detail on the slopes. The goggles are helmet compatible and have a rimless design for unparalleled peripheral vision.

The lenses of the Oakley Flight Deck L Goggles are impact resistant and feature an anti-fog coating. They also boast Oakley's Prizm technology, which enhances color and contrast for improved vision in all conditions. The goggles have a Ridgelock Technology that allows for quick and easy lens changes while maintaining a complete lens seal to keep out harsh conditions.

While the Oakley Flight Deck L Goggles only come with one lens, the quality and performance of the lens make them a good value for the price. They also offer 100% UV filtering, providing protection against harmful rays.

The Oakley Flight Deck L is a great choice for people who do not want to pay extra for spare lenses. They have a price point of right around two hundred dollars, which is a very good deal for these goggles. The Prizm lens technology is a high-contrast lens that helps to make things pop and provide an enhanced viewing experience.

Clint Hobbs
Snowboarding Expert

Similarities

Both the Smith I/O MAG and Oakley Flight Deck L Goggles are high-quality options designed to enhance your experience on the slopes. They both offer excellent field of view, helmet compatibility, and high-contrast lenses that improve vision in various light conditions. Both goggles also feature anti-fog technology and impact-resistant lenses for durability and clear vision. Additionally, both goggles have interchangeable lenses, allowing you to adapt to changing weather conditions.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both goggles are top-tier options, they cater to slightly different needs. The Smith I/O MAG Goggles are ideal for those who frequently face variable light conditions and want the convenience of a magnetic lens system. The included ChromaPop technology enhances color and contrast, providing a superior visual experience. These goggles are also a great fit for those who use Smith helmets, as they are designed to fit seamlessly.

On the other hand, the Oakley Flight Deck L Goggles are perfect for those who prioritize a wide field of view and high-contrast vision. The Prizm technology in the lens improves vision in all conditions, and the Ridgelock Technology allows for easy lens changes. These goggles are also a good choice for those on a budget, as they offer high-quality features at a lower price point since they only come with one lens.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to lens quality, both goggles offer high-contrast lenses that enhance vision. However, the Smith I/O MAG Goggles edge out with their ChromaPop technology and the inclusion of two lenses, one of which is photochromic.

In terms of fit and comfort, both goggles are designed to fit seamlessly with helmets and offer excellent comfort. However, the Smith I/O MAG Goggles offer three different sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for any face shape or size.

For lens changing convenience, the Smith I/O MAG Goggles take the lead with their magnetic lens system, which allows for quick and easy lens changes.

Finally, in terms of price, the Oakley Flight Deck L Goggles are the winner. They offer high-quality features at a lower price point, making them a great value for the price.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Smith I/O MAG and Oakley Flight Deck L Goggles are excellent choices for snow enthusiasts. They both offer high-quality lenses, excellent fit, and innovative features that enhance your experience on the slopes. However, the Smith I/O MAG Goggles may be the better option for those who frequently face variable light conditions and want the convenience of a magnetic lens system. On the other hand, the Oakley Flight Deck L Goggles are a solid choice for those who prioritize a wide field of view and high-contrast vision, and are on a budget. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences. So, whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner hitting the slopes for the first time, both these goggles are sure to elevate your snow game!

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