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How to Choose the Right Goggle Lens

How to Choose the Right Goggle Lens

Published

October 2, 2023

Article info

Guides and Technology

Lens Guide

The key factor in achieving optimal vision on the mountain is selecting the right lens and its lens technology. At Sweet Protection, we have created our own proprietary lens technology, known as RIG® Lens Technology, developed in Norway to deal with the most difficult light conditions. The technology focuses on providing superior contrast enhancing vision, minimum color distortion and reduced eye fatigue.

The significance of choosing the correct lens for the weather cannot be overstated. RIG® Lens Technology is available in all our sunglasses and goggle models, so you can enjoy Class 1 optics through whichever eyewear best suits your needs. This guide will help you choose the right lens for you.

The Myth:

What Color Lens Should I Have?

We get it, you're probably thinking, 'What's the deal with goggle lens colors?' Well, here's the scoop: while color does add some style points, it's not what makes it or breaks it.

What really matters are factors such as weather conditions, VLT, and lens category. Keep reading, and we'll break it down for you!

FAQ - Good to Know

Our RIG® Lens overview categoriezes all lenses based on different weather conditions. We offer lenses designed to perform optimally in various weather conditions, ensuring you have the best vision for your days on the slopes.

How many lenses should I have?

We recommend having at least two to three lenses; one for low-light and flat conditions, another for sunny days, and ideally our versatile all-round Bixbite lens. While all our goggle models allow for lens change, avid skiers may find it beneficial to invest in multiple goggles, each equipped with different lenses.

I only want one lens, which one should I have?

We highly recommend RIG® Bixbite and RIG® Malaia as versatile lenses. However, it's essential to recognize that no single lens can excel in both flat light and strong sunlight conditions. Ideally, you should consider having two options for these scenarios.

What is VLT?

VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission, which measures the amount of light a lens allows through. A higher VLT is ideal for overcast conditions and flat light, while a lower VLT is better suited for sunny conditions.

What is a lens category?

The lens category (S1, S2, S3, S4) is directly linked to the percentage of VLT, and does also indicate the amount of light a lens lets through.

What about sport performance sunglasses?

Our sport performance sunglasses have a slightly different VLT. We recommend checking out our specific guide for sport performance sunglasses on the product you are looking at.

What Lens should I have based on Weather Condition?

All our goggles are available with lenses from our overview, giving you the flexibility to select the perfect goggle frame that suits your needs and then choose lenses accordingly. While we strongly recommend using our lens guide for guidance, here are our suggestions for your convenience:

See all lenses

Who are you on the Slopes?

Depending on how frequent you ski or snowboard, your lens kit should resemble you. Great vision enhances the thrill of being in the mountains. It not only prevents eye fatigue but also makes it more enjoyable and easier to push your limits when you can see clearly.

As we say in Norway, “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing”, the same applies to lenses. Here are our suggestions:

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What lens should I have for Night Skiing?

A clear spare lens with a high VLT (75%) is the perfect choice for skiing under artificial lights. Hitting the slopes after the sun goes down offers a totally different riding experience. A challenge that often appears is maintaining visibility once the sun sets. Investing in a clear lens with a high VLT can significantly enhance the enjoyment and safety of your night skiing adventures.

Lens Guide

Goggle Lenses for Night skiing

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59 GBP

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“The first time I used a RIG® lens I couldn’t believe what I was actually seeing, or maybe what I had been missing before using RIG®. I never realized how hard I had to focus on simply seeing what was in front of me.”

— Marcus Caston, big mountain freeskier

Lens Technology

What really is RIG®?

RIG® ( Retina Illumination Grading) is our own proprietary lens technology that we at Sweet Protection developed ourselves here in Norway. The technology focuses on providing superior contrast enhancing vision, minimum color distortion and reduced eye fatigue.

The construction of a lens is complex. The image below illustrates the numerous layers and features found in a Sweet Protection lens*. Some of our goggles and lenses offers additional features to further enhance your experience. These features are included in our models with a thicker toric lens. If you'd like to learn more about the technology and features, we recommend clicking on the specific goggle model to read about its unique technology.

*The image applies to our Clockwork, Interstellar and Connor lenses. The rest of our goggles have a slightly different construction.

Triple the Anti-Fog Effectiveness

Clear A-F

The ‘Clear A-F’ inner lens is made from a high-grade cellulose triacetate and offers triple the anti-fog effectiveness compared to a standard inner lens. The high-grade material is more durable and offers superior clarity. With the ‘Clear A-F’ inner lens technology you will have the best vision possible in demanding conditions.

‘Clear A-F’ is included on our Interstellar, Clockwork, Connor and Boondock Goggles.

Equalize the Internal Pressure

GORE® Protective Vents

GORE® Protective Vents is used to equalize the pressure between the outer lens and the inner lens, preventing deformation of the lens in different altitudes to maintain perfect optical properties in all conditions. By including GORE® Protective Vents, we can equalize the pressure with no risk of condensation inside of the lens.

Our Interstellar, Clockwork and Connor lenses comes with GORE® Protective Vents.

Chemical Vapour Deposition

Super Olephobic & Hydrophobic Coating

Super Oleophobic & Hydrophobic Coating is a protective layer on the lenses that prevents water, dirt, and grime from adhering, making them easy to maintain cleanliness.

You can find this coating on all of our lenses.

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