First Impressions of Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles
The Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles promise a seamless blend of optical clarity and facial comfort for those of us with lower nose bridges and wider cheekbones, a persistent challenge in the world of winter sports eyewear. Smith has been a trusted name in eyewear for years, and the combination of their MAG lens change system with a design specifically tailored for a low bridge fit immediately caught my attention.
As someone who’s spent countless hours on the slopes and in the backcountry, finding goggles that don’t pinch my nose or constantly fog up has been an ongoing quest. The promise of the Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles solving these issues felt like a potential game-changer.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the sleek, frameless design and the seemingly robust magnetic lens attachment system. The goggles felt lightweight yet solid, inspiring confidence in their build quality.
Compared to my older pair of Anon M2 goggles (also with a magnetic lens system) and a traditional pair of Oakley Flight Decks, the Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles immediately felt more streamlined and less bulky. I ultimately chose the Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles because of the specialized fit, hoping to finally conquer the dreaded goggle gap. My first impression was one of cautious optimism – I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles to the test during a week-long backcountry ski trip in the Tetons. Conditions ranged from sunny bluebird days to snowy, whiteout conditions, providing a comprehensive testing ground. The goggles were tested during long ascents, fast descents, and even during some post-holing navigation when we got off-course.
The bright light ChromaPop lens performed exceptionally well on the sunny days, providing excellent contrast and allowing me to pick out subtle variations in the snow surface. The low light lens was equally impressive during the whiteout, offering surprisingly clear vision despite the flat light. Swapping lenses was surprisingly easy, even with gloved hands – the magnetic system lived up to its promise. My initial concern about ease of use quickly vanished.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles have proven to be remarkably durable. There are no noticeable scratches on either lens, and the frame shows no signs of stress or cracking.
Cleaning the lenses is straightforward, using a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner. The foam around the frame has maintained its shape and continues to provide a comfortable seal. Compared to my previous experiences with other goggles that quickly degraded after heavy use, the Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles have been a significant improvement.
Breaking Down the Features of Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles
Specifications
The Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles features a Cylindrical Carbonic-x lens for clarity and impact resistance. The cylindrical lens design offers a wide field of view, enhancing peripheral vision.
Smith’s 5X anti-fog inner lens provides advanced fog-free performance. This significantly reduces fogging, even during high-exertion activities.
ChromaPop lens technology enhances contrast and natural color, making details pop. This translates to better depth perception and improved visual acuity in various lighting conditions.
The Smith MAG lens change system uses magnets for quick, easy lens changes. Six magnetic contact points and two locking mechanisms provide a secure and reliable lens attachment.
Designed for ultimate integration with Smith helmets for maximum comfort, venting, and fog-free performance. This ensures optimal airflow and compatibility with Smith helmets.
A QuickFit strap adjustment system allows you to find the right fit fast. This makes adjusting the strap, even with gloves, effortless.
The Ultra-wide, silicone-backed strap stays put. This prevents the goggles from slipping on your helmet or head.
Three-layer DriWix face foam wicks moisture for a fog-free fit. This keeps your face dry and comfortable, even during intense activity.
A Responsive Fit frame adjusts to your face for a precise, comfortable fit. This ensures the goggles conform to your facial contours for maximum comfort.
Medium / Large fit; Low Bridge Fit for faces with a lower nose bridge and/or a wide or high cheekbone shape. This is a crucial design feature for those who struggle with standard goggle fit.
These specifications are key to the Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles’ performance. The combination of features results in a comfortable, high-performing goggle that’s suitable for a wide range of winter conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles perform exceptionally well in terms of both vision and comfort. The ChromaPop lenses provide excellent clarity and contrast, making it easier to see in varying light conditions.
The goggles have a very minor weakness in extreme flat light. However, the included low light lens mitigated this issue almost completely. Overall, the goggles meet and exceed expectations, particularly regarding fit and fog resistance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles is impressive. The materials feel durable and well-constructed.
The ergonomic design makes these goggles comfortable to wear for extended periods, and the low bridge fit is a game-changer for those who typically struggle with goggle fit. The learning curve is minimal, making them accessible to both experienced and novice skiers and snowboarders.
Durability & Maintenance
The Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles are built to last. The Carbonic-x lens is highly resistant to scratches and impacts.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner. The overall design and materials suggest that these goggles will provide years of reliable performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles come with two interchangeable ChromaPop lenses: one for bright light conditions and one for low light conditions. A microfiber goggle bag is also included for storage and cleaning.
While there are no specific customization options directly from Smith beyond lens choices, the goggles are compatible with a wide range of Smith helmets. This allows for a streamlined and integrated system that enhances both comfort and performance.
Pros and Cons of Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles
Pros
- Excellent lens clarity and contrast thanks to ChromaPop technology.
- Quick and easy lens changes with the MAG magnetic system.
- Comfortable low bridge fit prevents pinching and gapping.
- Effective anti-fog coating ensures clear vision in varying conditions.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Can be expensive compared to other goggles on the market.
- While effective, the magnetic lens system requires careful handling to avoid scratches during lens swaps.
Who Should Buy Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles?
The Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles are perfect for skiers and snowboarders with low nose bridges and/or wide cheekbones who struggle to find goggles that fit properly. These goggles are also ideal for those who frequently encounter varying light conditions and need to be able to quickly and easily swap lenses.
Those on a tight budget or those who rarely experience fogging issues might want to consider a less expensive alternative. A Smith helmet is a must-have accessory to maximize the goggles’ venting and integration.
Conclusion on Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles
The Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles deliver on their promise of exceptional optical clarity and a comfortable, customized fit. The price is certainly an investment, but the performance, durability, and convenience of the MAG lens change system justify the cost for those who demand the best.
I would highly recommend the Smith Squad Mag Low Bridge Fit Googles to anyone seeking a premium goggle that addresses the fit challenges faced by those with lower nose bridges. If you’re tired of ill-fitting goggles and want to elevate your winter sports experience, look no further. Upgrade your vision and your comfort on the slopes – you won’t regret it!