Crystal Clear on the Slopes: Anti Fog Spray for Snow Goggles

Keeping Your Snow Goggles Free from Fogging

Snow goggles are an essential protective piece of equipment for skiers, snowboarders and any other kind of snow-sport enthusiast. Whether you're out in the snow for a few hours or a few days, having your vision constantly impaired by fogging can be dangerous and very inconvenient.

During activities in cold climates, snow goggles act as a lens for your face, which prevents your eyes from direct contact with cold air and strong winds. However, when you start moving, your body's temperature will rise and warm your face, choking the lens with condensation and fog that would obstruct your vision. This makes it hard to see anything around, and thus, react to it. In order to keep up safe and confident while on the snow, it's important to have a fog-free view.

Most snow goggles today are handed in pre-equipped with anti-fog technology, which can be divided into three main scenarios:

  • Ventilations strong winds are the most effective way to keep the snow goggles' lens cold, preventing condensation. Although not the most efficient in cold temperatures, frame ventilations can help reduce the impact of warm air.
  • Coating many specialized snow goggles come with an extra layer over the lenses that create a nano-layer of air with certain properties to produce anti-fog effects.
  • Heat Shedding this is a rather expensive technology that conducts warm air away from the lenses.

Fogging isn't a problem exclusive to the cold season, and there are several easy solutions you can prepare to take into account at any time:

  • Anti-fog sprays there are several commercial anti-fog sprays you can buy with quick-dry effects that work with different materials and will coat your lenses and keep the fog away;
  • Toothpaste rubbing a small amount of toothpaste on your lenses can also help to keep them fog-free;
  • Dishwashing liquid putting your snow goggles in a hot soapy water solution, comparable to what you would get with your dishes, is an easy and relatively cheap DIY solution you can use.

Just as with any piece of equipment, regular maintenance is important in order to make sure your snow goggles keep up their performance;

  • Cleaning wipe your lenses off with a soft cloth after every use, and make sure to use the special cleaning cloths specifically designed for snow goggles.
  • Storage it's advised to store your snow goggles in a ventilated and shielded case, to make sure the lenses and frames don't suffer any physical alteration.

If you are looking for new snow goggles, it's important to make sure you pick one that fits your face correctly, as tight goggles at the bridge of your nose and forehead can help keep fog away. Additionally, look for snow goggles that feature helix ventilation, designed to move air in a circular motion while you ski down the slope.

Most snow goggles are available with anti-fog technology, which might influence your choice of product. Choose the one that best fits your needs:

FeatureDescription
VentilationMost snow goggles come with ventilation holes designed to draw cold air and expel the warm air, but this may be less effective in colder climates.
CoatingSome goggles include an extra anti-fog coating, producing a nano-layer of air that keeps the threat of fog away.
Heat SheddingA more expensive technology, heat shedding employs special membranes to surround the lens, conducting the warm air outside.

You can find reviews online from both websites and stores, however, there are tips you should keep in mind when searching for the best snow goggles:

  • Match your needs though a certain piece of equipment may fit your eyes and other factors, it's best to make sure it comes with the anti-fog features you're looking for;
  • Consider the cost high-end anti-fog technologies are usually more expensive, but they come with the added benefit of a better view and higher durability.

No matter the maintenance and care routine you choose for your snow goggles, it's important to keep a close eye on any change in performance or malfunction. If you feel like your vision is impaired because of fogging, take the time and go to a more ventilated place. Diligently following a maintenance routine alongside proper anti-fog solutions can help you keep your performance on the slopes under control.

Fogging can be a serious hazard in all kinds of outdoor activities, from skiing to mountain climbing, and just like specialist gear, proper anti-fog solutions are available for snow goggles. Different features, such as ventilation, coating and heat shedding, all help to reduce the chances of fogging, as well as proper care and maintenance. As always, you should always make sure you follow safety considerations and pay attention to all equipment you use, as they can break down or malfunction unexpectedly.