Lead Photo Credit: Smith Optics
Finding the right ski goggles can be tricky. Get them too big and you will look like you belong in a Daft Punk video. Too small and you’re more apt to resemble Stuart the Minion (he’s the one with one eye) or even worse, you’ll sport a gaper gap.
Nobody wants that.
So what is someone to do if no pair seems to fit the way you want them to? You can certainly keep trying in the hopes that one day you’ll find the right pair for you. But what if there was a simpler way to get goggles that perfectly fit your face without all of the guesswork? It turns out there is.
Smith Optics 3D Print Technology offers a simple process that eliminates the guesswork and delivers a custom snow goggle built to the individualized features of a person’s face.
The Process is Simple
From the sharp views that their Chromapop lenses offer to their magnetic interchangeability, Smith has long been a leader in the snow goggle world. The 3D Print Technology is now the most recent example of Smith’s goggle prowess and a game-changer for anyone looking for better-fitting goggles.
The process itself is rather simple. Jump onto the Smith website and purchase the I/O Mag Imprint 3D Goggle. After completing your purchase, you will receive an email with a link to the Apple App Store to download the Smith App directly. The App is also available in the App Store and can be found by searching “Smith Optics.” This is the one caveat, you must have an Apple iPhone or iPad to complete the face scan (a list of compatible devices can be found here).
From there you will be prompted to enter your email address and the App code. Once completed you will be taken to the face scan screen. At this point, make sure your face is completely clear of your hair, glasses, face coverings, etc. and scan away.
Based on my personal experience, I suggest going through the scan more than once just for learning curve purposes. Then, review your scan and submit. Your goggles will be constructed, shipped and on your face within 14 days.
The End Result is Well Worth It
Photo Credit: Smith Optics
Historically, I have never been one to have issues finding goggles that fit my face. However, I have been using my Imprint 3D Goggles now for over a month and they are superior to the one size fits all approach from my past!
There is something to be said for the benefits of a custom fit. My view of the mountain and trails is greater than that of a standard goggle. There are no annoying gaps between my skin and the foam fit thereby preventing cold air from sneaking in. However, where the Imprint 3D really excels is in the category of comfort. At times, I barely even realize they are there. Unrivaled comfort is hard to surpass and goes a long way when spending hours on the slopes.
Just like other Smith goggles, your custom 3D Imprint goggles come complete with two of their trademark Chromapop lenses that are interchangeable via Smith’s Mag Technology.
One Size Fits All is a Game of Chance
The one-size-fits all approach to finding snow goggles can be a bit of a crap shoot. It’s very much a game of chance. You can roll the dice and hope you get a pair that will work with your face. However, there is always the chance that they may not. Over time this can become an expensive series of investments. The other option is to invest one time in Smith’s I/O Mag Imprint 3D Goggle. At $450 the price is not inexpensive, but the investment is worth it. You’ll get a custom fitting snow goggle that is functional, comfortable and you’ll only pay the cost once.
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après, and the co-host of the Beyond the Après podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres