Snowboard Helmets & Goggles

Think about where you ride and how much weight matters: in-mold helmets use a thin polycarbonate shell bonded to EPS foam and often weigh under 1 lb for resort and touring use, while injection-molded ABS shells offer tougher abrasion resistance for everyday resort knocks. Hybrids combine an ABS upper with a lighter in-mold lower to balance durability and weight, and look for CE-EN1077 or ASTM F-2040 certification plus optional MIPS if you want added rotational protection.

Spherical lenses, which curve both horizontally and vertically, reduce distortion and give better peripheral clarity for steep, technical runs compared with cylindrical shapes suited to consistent light. Models like the Giro Owen Spherical show how pairing a spherical lens with decent venting can improve visibility in mixed terrain.

A snug helmet seal with no goggle gap is essential—use adjustable fit systems, detachable moisture-wicking liners, and proper ear coverage so the goggle frame sits flush without obstructing vision. Also check for helmets with Stack Vent or aligned goggle ports and adjustable airflow channels to help reduce fogging between the helmet and lens.

Yes, lightweight in-mold constructions are a good choice for touring when ventilation and low weight matter; many in-mold styles offer ultralight ventilation and can weigh under 1 lb while remaining breathable. Certain Salomon in-mold helmets are designed specifically for touring, and some ultralight models even meet EN 12492 climbing standards for alpine use.

Magnetic systems make fast swaps on the hill and are ideal if you need to change lenses quickly, while clip-in designs can feel more secure in very cold or rough conditions. Pair either system with photochromic adaptive tints or carry a spare lens in bright and low-light options to manage rapidly changing weather.