It’s a thing we all dread and often a thing that many people are unsure how to handle. Goggle fog.
Older goggles, newer goggles, more expensive or more budget, most people experience the dreaded fog at least once in their mountain sport career.
What Tech is Used to Prevent Goggle Fog?
Almost all reputable goggle brands have their own way of dispersing the moisture particles that create the mist on the inside of goggles.
Most opt for micro pores that absorb and divert moisture, alongside vents on the top and bottom that allow water vapor created from body heat to escape and let cool air come in too.
This technology has its faults though, as many have found out. Unfortunately, the manufacturing process that is used means that the anti-fog micro pores are fragile and susceptible to damage when cared for improperly.
How Does it Work?
As far as my knowledge goes, and to keep it fairly simple without giving the wrong information. The process involves baking the micro pores onto the inner layer of the goggles.
This means that the micro pores are in some ways like a big sticker on the inside of your goggles. However they’re so thin that it’s not possible to re-do the micro pores after the manufacturing process is complete.
It’s also so thin that if you wipe the inside of your goggles with almost everything, you are bound to destroy them. This is step one to avoiding goggle fog.
Step One
Never wipe the inside of your goggles. N E V E R. Under no circumstances!
More Tips and Tricks to Avoid Goggle Fog
To start my advice, follow the questions below to try and diagnose where the issue may lie;
- Are you too warm while skiing?
- Are the vents on top of your goggles wet or blocked?
- Have you allowed the goggles to dry adequately before use?
- Is it raining or snowing?
If you answered yes to any of the above, there may be an easy solution to your fog problem!
If you are too warm, try a helmet with more vents or adjusting your layering; sweat is a big foggy factor.
Similarly if the vents on your goggles or helmet are blocked, the heat may not be escaping well and could solve the problem.
If you skied the previous day and left your goggles somewhere they might not have dried very well (Like the back of a truck or a cold entry way) then the pores may not have had time to empty and will still be saturated. Never apply heat to your goggles as you can melt the glue that holds them together, but separate the lens from the frame where possible and leave at room temperature overnight; this should dry them enough.
Finally, if it’s raining or snowing and you left your goggles on top of your head while walking to the lifts, you may have negated the effects of drying! Try keeping your goggles in your pocket or on your face to hide them from unnecessary moisture.
What More Can I do?
- Have you bought a reputable set of goggles?
If yes, continue with the most important question below.
If not, it may be time to invest. Start by heading to your local ski shop or checking out reviews online; I am personally a fan of Oakley and Spy after personal testing. Other good brands include Anon, Smith and more. Generally if you’re spending less than $150 on your goggles you may be getting less technology meaning you may fog up more if spending lots of time on the hill.
- Have you wiped the inside of your goggles previously?
As mentioned above, the inside technology is super fragile and can be wiped off with ease. If you have wiped the inside of your goggles then unfortunately they may be ruined if you find that they subsequently fog up more often.
So, what are the best ways to get rid of moisture when it does occur in an unavoidable circumstance?
Bring a spare lens – if you have another you can switch out in a pinch, this is your best bet.
Dab don’t wipe – If absolutely necessary, dab the inside with a microfibre cloth as gently as possible. Generally this won’t eliminate all moisture but may make it easier to ski short term.
Take a lunch break – Head down to a nice warm cafe or restaurant, separate your lens from your frame and try and dry them for as long as you can, an hour should be good enough.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully these tips and tricks will help your goggles stay crystal clear!
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