What To Look For
Oakley has a full line of goggles for skiing and snowboarding, from entry-level models to their signature series, endorsed by top performers like Shaun White. Some of Oakley's goggles, like the Proven OTG, are designed to fit over prescription eyewear. Most have polarized lenses for bright sun, and also come with an anti-fog treatment to help reduce fogging on the inside of the lens. The high-end Oakley goggles, like the Polarized A Frame, have a special liquid infusion process for better clarity and reduced glare by binding the polarizing filter to the lens on a molecular level.
Common Pitfalls
Oakley offers multiple lenses for all their goggles, and each lens has different levels of light protection. Choosing the right one can be confusing, and it requires care and time--don't just grab a pair of goggles and go. Take the goggles outside (if the shop will allow it) and see how they look in natural light. In general, get clear lenses for night skiing, rose lenses for all-around, amber lenses for low light, and darker lenses for bright days.
People have different head and face shapes, so goggles will fit people differently. Try on the goggles to see how they fit; don't just take the shop person's recommendation and assume they will work for your needs.
Where To Buy
Oakley goggles are available in most ski shops, as well as at online retailers like Backcountry.com and Trails.com.
Cost
Oakley goggles in 2009 vary in cost between $30 for lower-end models to $170 for the high-end Polarized Crowbar model. Additionally, using different lenses will increase the cost of the model. The signature models all start at $105, except for the Terje Haakonsen signature, which starts at $135. The Ambush Snow varies between $75 and $105.
Accessories
Oakley offers replacement lenses for their goggles, as well as a carry case. You can also get multiple lens tints for different conditions. For instance, the Black Iridium is ideal for very bright days, while the Clear is ideal for night skiing and very low light.
