When it comes to winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, having the right goggles is vital. It can be difficult to find a pair of over-the-glasses (OTG) goggles that fit comfortably and provide adequate protection if you wear glasses. But with a bit of research and paying attention to certain key factors, you can find a pair that perfectly fits your needs. Keep reading to make sure that you buy the right over-the-glasses (OTG) for snowboarding.
Look For A Wide Frame
When you’re looking for a pair of over-the-glasses (OTG) goggles for skiing or snowboarding, make sure to go for a pair with a wide frame. This will give you enough room to comfortably fit your glasses and also provide proper ventilation to prevent fogging. You don’t want your goggles squeezing your glasses too tight, which can be uncomfortable and cause fogging. A wide frame allows you to wear your glasses comfortably, and also keep the goggles securely in place, with no pressure points.
Invest In Quality Lenses
The lens is one of the most important components of any pair of goggles, so choose a pair with high-quality lenses that provide good visibility and protection. Look for lenses that are coated with anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings. And consider the type of lens that best suits your needs. Here are several types of lenses that can be used for over-the-glasses (OTG) ski goggles, each with its own benefits and characteristics.
- Spherical lenses: Curved in both vertical and horizontal directions, these provide a wider field of vision. Spherical lenses are also more comfortable to wear and provide better ventilation than cylindrical lenses.
- Cylindrical lenses: Cylindrical lenses are curved in only one direction, providing a more narrow field of vision. They are generally less comfortable to wear and provide less ventilation than spherical lenses.
- Photochromic lenses: These lenses automatically adjust to the level of light they are exposed to, getting darker in bright light and lighter in low light. They would be a good option for changing weather conditions and can save you from carrying multiple lenses.
- Mirror lenses: Mirror lenses have a reflective coating on the outside surface that reduces glare and enhances contrast. They are a better choice for sunny conditions and can help with eye fatigue.
- Polarized lenses: These types of lenses have a special filter that blocks glare caused by light reflecting off surfaces like snow and water. They are ideal for bright conditions and can help with eye strain, fatigue and snow blindness.
- Low Light lenses: These lenses have a yellow or rose tint that enhances contrast and improves visibility in flat light or low light conditions. They are good for overcast or cloudy days, or early morning and late afternoon skiing
- Other types include infrared lenses and cat-eye lenses, but these are not commonly used.
Choose A Comfortable And Secure Strap
When you’re on the hunt for a pair of over-the-glasses (OTG) goggles, don’t forget to pay attention to the straps. They play a big part in making sure that the goggles fit well and stay in place while you’re on the slopes. You’d want to look for straps that are adjustable, so you can get the perfect fit over your glasses and keep the goggles from sliding around or falling off.
Also, keep in mind that using straps made from durable and flexible materials like silicone or neoprene is a good idea, as they tend to last longer and give you a more comfortable and secure fit.
It’s Better to Try On The Goggles Before Buying
When you’re buying over-the-glasses (OTG) goggles, it’s a smart move to try them on with your glasses to make sure they fit comfortably and securely. It’s important to check the fit around your nose and temples, as well as the fit of the straps around your head. Make sure the goggles seal well around your face so no snow or wind can get in. Another important thing to consider when trying on OTG goggles is the field of view. The goggles should give you a wide, unobstructed view without any distortion or warping around the edges of the lens. This will ensure that you have a clear and accurate perception of the terrain while you’re snowboarding.
Maintenance Tips for OTG Goggles
Proper care and maintenance of over-the-glass (OTG) goggles ensures they last a long time and continue to provide the best protection, visibility and comfort while snowboarding. It is recommended to clean your goggles regularly because they can accumulate dirt and grime over time, which can affect visibility and ventilation. To clean the goggles, use a soft cloth or microfiber to gently wipe down the lens and frame. Avoid using any abrasive materials or chemicals as they can scratch the lens or damage the frame.
Brand
Brand reputation is an important factor to consider when purchasing any product, and OTG goggles are no exception. Choosing a reputable brand that has a good track record of producing high-quality and durable products will give you peace of mind that you’re getting a product that is made to a high standard. Some popular brands include Zeal Optics, Smith Optics, Oakley, Giro and UVEX.
Price
Goggles can vary greatly in price, with some being relatively affordable, while others can be quite expensive. While it’s always tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a high-quality, durable pair of goggles may be more expensive in the short term, but they will last longer and provide better protection and visibility. Some brands also offer sales or discounts at certain times of the year, which could be a good opportunity to get a high-quality pair of goggles at a reasonable price.
What are the benefits of using OTG goggles?
OTG goggles provide protection, better visibility as and are made for a specific purpose in mind.
What should I look for when choosing OTG goggles?
Look for a comfortable and secure fit, a lens that will provide the best visibility in different weather and light conditions, proper ventilation to prevent fogging, and durable materials that will withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
Can I wear prescription lenses with OTG goggles?
Yes, you can wear prescription lenses with OTG goggles, eliminating the need to wear glasses underneath the goggles, which can be uncomfortable. However, they make more sense for people who do snowboarding on a regular basis because they cost more than non-prescription OTG goggles.
Conclusion
Over-the-glass (OTG) goggles are a great option for snowboarders and skiers who wear glasses. When choosing OTG goggles, it’s important to consider factors such as fit, lens and visibility, ventilation, durability, and quality. It’s also important to try on the goggles with your glasses to ensure a comfortable and secure fit, and to take proper care and maintenance to ensure they last a long time. Ski goggles provide a lot of benefits, with the right pair of OTG goggles, you’ll be able to enjoy your time on the snow-capped mountains with clear vision and feeling safe.