Gearhead: Smith Optics a must for spring skiing

When playing in high-mountain snow, it’s important to give your eyes the best protection possible. According to the World Health Organization, every 1000-meter increase in altitude increases ultra-violet (UV)levels by 10 to 12 percent. In addition, while boarding or skiing, your eyes must deal with wind and the sun’s extremely bright reflection on snow.

That’s why it’s a good idea to choose high-quality skiing/boarding goggles. Considered one of the best makers of such goggles, Smith Optics was founded in Sun Valley in 1965. It developed the first sealed thermal lens and breathable vent foam goggles and has continued to innovate ever since. Among the features available in the company’s large goggle selection: interchangeable lenses, a quick-release change system, bright/low light mirror lenses, 5X anti-fog inner lens, a patented filter to prevent optical distortion during elevation changes, maximum ventilation, helmet compatibility - and much more.

Smith goggles come in different sizes to fit men and women, and the selection ranges in price - depending on features - from $75 to $240. Here are two goggles from either end of that price spectrum:

The top-of-the-line Smith I/O MAG offers a lens change system that includes bright/low light performance lenses; spherical carbonic-x lens; TLT lens technology for clear vision; quick-fit adjustment system with clip buckle; 3-layer DriWix face foam; 5X anti-fog inner lens; a dual-axis outrigger position system; and other features. It comes with a microfiber goggle bag with a replacement lens sleeve, a lifetime warranty, and is available in a large number of frame and lens colors. $240. smithoptics.com

The Smith Range offers a cylindrical carbonic-x lens, fog-X anti-fog inner lens, TLT lens technology, dual-side strap adjustment system, 2-layer DriWix face foam; and other features. It comes with a microfiber goggle bag, and is available in 3 frame colors and one lens color (Ignitor Mirror). $75. smithoptics.com

According to the Smith Optics website, its products are widely available in Sonoma County: Sonoma Outfitters, Dr. Hollis Stavn Optometry, Sports Basement, Cambria Bicycle Center, West Marine, Mike’s Bikes of Petaluma, Sebastopol Hardware Center, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Play it Again Sports, Santa Rosa Ski & Sports and REI.