Ski/Snowboard Goggles for Cycling?

[zoom-zoom]

My hubby often wears a pair of old ski goggles when he rides in the Winter. I'm thinking that's probably a good idea for me, too. Any suggestions on models that would work well for cycling...perhaps something I could even wear sunglasses under, for brighter, cold days? I have a pretty small face, so I'm guessing I'd want women-specifc ones.

[pll]

That is so tempting, it must make the use of balaclavas easier (no fogging of glasses). I am curious about the answers. Anyone using motorcycle goggles?

[ridebikeme]

I too, have a small face, but there are definitely lots of models out there that are NOT women specific... Oakley and Smith are two of the premier models that offer such goggles. The other thing to consider is where you will ride and what types of light would you see? Will you see mostly snow? Is it overcast/sunny alot in your area? There are some really great lenses out there and simply wanted you to think about your area... and get the appropriate lense. I've sold tons of goggles in my time, and if you're able to get what fits and the type of lens you'll need then you'll have a great time.

Also, depending on your helmet, you mgiht want to take that with you when you start looking for goggles...the shape of some helmets interferes with the fit of the goggle and could potentially push the goggle down on your nose.

Good luck in your search!



http://chasecyclery.blogspot.com

[zoom-zoom]

The other thing to consider is where you will ride and what types of light would you see? Will you see mostly snow? Is it overcast/sunny alot in your area? There are some really great lenses out there and simply wanted you to think about your area... and get the appropriate lense. I've sold tons of goggles in my time, and if you're able to get what fits and the type of lens you'll need then you'll have a great time.

Also, depending on your helmet, you mgiht want to take that with you when you start looking for goggles...the shape of some helmets interferes with the fit of the goggle and could potentially push the goggle down on your nose.

Odds are that I'd mostly be wearing them when it's overcast and snowy (especially if the weather guys are right about the current seasonal models), so I'm guessing a lighter orange/red/amber sort of lens is what I'd be looking for...?

I'm guessing any taller goggle would not be compatible with my helmet. Too bad no one makes goggles specifically for use with a bike helmet. I'm sure there would be at least some demand for something like that.

[Becky]

I have a pair of Oakley A-frames (unisex) and Scott something or others that are WS. The Oakleys actually fit my small face better. I tried on a pair of Smith WS googles once, and they were positively tiny and uncomfortable. Your best bet is to try them on and not rule out unisex goggles, IME.

[ridebikeme]

Zoom-Zoom,

What I've learned about overcast days is that there is very little light... especially if you happen to be riding in the woods. Most companies make a blue iridum lens that lets in way more light and you can actually"SEE". What I mean by that is that on an overcast day it is very hard to see "definition" in snow or the woods... sometimes hard to know whether you are about to hit a hole or not. The blue iridium lens by Smith and Gyro will give you much better visibility for these types of conditions. Oakley has a 'yellow"(have forgotton the name of the lens) that does the same thing... essentially you are looking for a lens to let in more light.

Becky, I own several types of goggles and have found that the Oakley A-frame fits me the best as well... although it does depend on which helmet I wear.


http://chasecyclery.blogspot.com

[moderncyclista]

I totally use ski goggles during the winter. Clear lens, OTG (over-the-glasses) by Smith Optics. Cost me 15 bucks on amazon. Anti-fog lenses. Value in the bitter winds of the midwest? Priceless. :D

(Note: I also have a small face and the Smith OTG goggles are great for me. Adjustable strap and all. :) )

[macski]

There are ski goggles that are made specifically to allow people to wear glasses underneath but I have a friend who has them and the glasses still fog up from the heat generated by your face.

You mentioned that you wish there were goggles designed to be worn with a bike helmet - many ski goggles are designed to be worn with ski helmets. My ski helmet sits around about the same place on my forehead as my bike helmet so you should be able to find ski goggles that are compatible with a bike helmet. With ski helmets the crucial part is that the goggles have to fit between the sides of the helmet, which wouldn't be an issue with most bike helmets.

Good luck with finding suitable goggles. Oh, and I'd go for yellow or rose lenses. As a skier I find that I can use them even on sunny days and it gives good definition in the shade or when it's overcast.

[climbergirl]

Re: fogging. Some ski goggles are made with a little venting system that allows a little more cool air to circulate and keep the fogging down. It's one more feature to look for if you're really interested.

Also, if you wear prescription glasses, you can always purchase a pair of "sport" goggle/glasses with your scrip built in. I don't have any, by my bf and last bf both had them. Convenient, to say the least!