It’s natural that everyone wants their child to stay safe and have a good time skiing. To do this, reliable ski equipment is necessary. One thing that every skier needs, large or small, is a pair of great ski and snowboard goggles. They protect your child’s eyes from harmful UV rays, wind, and debris, allowing them to see clearly while conquering the slopes.
But when there are so many models to choose from, how do you find the right one? Well, much like adult goggles, you need a pair that is easily adjustable and fits comfortably on your child’s face. However, perhaps the most important thing is the lens and the protection it gives.
We created this article to make your job of equipping your child for a ski trip easier. Our buying guide will teach you all you need to know about the best ski goggles for kids, and how to select the right ones. But before we dive into that, take a look at the goggle selection we made for you.
EDITORS CHOICE
OutdoorMaster Helmet Compatible
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Two pairs in the package
- Dual-layer lens with anti-fog coating
- OTG compatible
- Soft frame
Age Range: 6+
Lens Color: Grey and Clear
Lens material: Polycarbonate
Frame material: TPU
UV Protection: 100%, UV400
VLT%: 10% (Grey), 99% (Clear)
Dimensions: 6.7” (W) x 3.5” (H) x 3.2” (D)
BEST VALUE
LJDJ Pack of 4 UV400 Protective
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Four pairs in the package
- Carry pouch and cleaning cloth included
- Anti-scratch UV resistant lens
Lens Color: Multicolor/Clear
Lens material: Polycarbonate
Frame material: ABS Plastic
UV Protection: UV400
Dimensions: 7.0” (W) x 3.1” (H)
Bolle AMP
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Excellent for smaller children
- Flow-Tech venting to prevent fogging
- Double-layer lens
- Comfortable strap
Age Range: 3 to 8 years
Lens Color: Vermillon
Lens material: Polycarbonate
UV Protection: Yes
Dimensions: 6.7” (W) x 3” (H) x 3” (D)
RNGEO Pack of 2 UV400 Anti-Glare
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Two pairs in the package
- Excellent value for money
- Wide-veiw anti-glare lens
- Detachable strap
Lens Color: Multicolor
Lens material: Polycarbonate
Frame material: ABS plastic
UV Protection: UV400
Dimensions: 9.0” (W) x 2.9 (H)
VELAZZIO OTG
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Anti-fog lens technology
- Strap with silicone
- Helmet-compatible
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Age Range: 8 to 16 years
Lens Color: Grey with Revo Red coating
Lens material: Polycarbonate
Frame material: TPU
UV Protection: 100%
VLT%: 15%
Yidomto Pack of 3
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Three pairs in the package
- Thick comfortable face foam
- Anti-glare anti-UV lens
Age Range: 8+ years
Lens Color: Multicolor
Lens material: Polycarbonate
Frame material: ABS plastic
UV Protection: UV400
COPOZZ Helmet Compatible OTG
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- OTG compatible
- Non-slip strap with silicone
- Two-way venting system
Age Range: 2 to 12 years
Lens Color: Gold, mirror lens
Lens material: Polycarbonate
Frame material: TPU
UV Protection: 100%
VLT%: 18.4%
Scott Sports Agent Mini
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Hypoallergenic materials used
- Snug and comfortable fit
- Anti-fog coated lens
Age Range: 3 to 6 years
Lens Color: Clear
Giro Chico
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Numerous frame colors and strap designs
- Fully compatible with Giro kids ski helmets
- Wide view lens
Age Range: 2 to 5 years
Lens Color: Amber Rose
Lens: Cylindrical thermoformed lens
UV Protection: Yes
VLT%: 39%
How To Choose Kids Ski Goggles – Buying Guide
As long as you know what to look for, finding the best ski goggles for kids won’t be that difficult. Things like the age of your child, fit, lens type, and design all play a significant role here. Since these are kids goggles, we’ll try to keep things brief. If you want to learn more, be sure to read our in-depth guide on how to choose the best youth goggles.
Related Post: How To Choose Ski Goggles
Size and Fit
Sizing your child’s goggles properly is important for their performance. Most manufacturers will specify the age range for a pair of goggles (toddlers to youth), as well as their dimensions so you can check if they will fit well. Almost all goggles come with adjustable straps, which is a big plus because you can tighten or loosen accordingly.
It’s an added bonus if the frame is flexible too because it can then adapt to your little one’s face and create a better seal. While a pair of ski and snowboard goggles will usually last a few seasons, keep in mind that your child’s head grows and that they will become too small at one point.
Lens and UV Rating
The lens is the most important part of any ski and snowboard goggles, in terms of protection at least. When buying goggles for kids, make sure the lens has UV protection to shield their eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays. All of the models we reviewed have UV protection, and most have UV400 rating meaning they eliminate almost 100% of harmful rays.
The color of the lens also plays a role. Lighter lenses allow more light to go through, making them better for low-light conditions. Darker lenses allow less light through, so they are a great choice for bright blue sunny days. The amount of light that goes through is shown with VLT (visible light transmission) percentage, where a lower % means darker color, and a higher % means that more light comes through, making it better for cloudy days or night skiing.
Related Review: Night Ski Goggles
The materials used for making the lens are also important, with polycarbonate being a standard today. In addition, some models come with a double layer lens, which gives added protection and prevents condensation. Some also have glare protection and anti-fog layers.
Ventilation
Air circulation through the goggles prevents them from fogging up. Goggles that have vents both up and down (or on both sides) allow better circulation, and the size of the vent also plays a role. Vents allow moisture to escape instead of condensing on the inner side of the lens. Additionally, some models come with the mentioned anti-fog coating on the lens’ inner side, keeping the lens clear.
Comfort
If your child is going to wear them all day, the goggles must be comfortable to wear and not press on the head too much. When you’ve picked the right size, you need to check whether it fits properly on the face. The best ski goggles for kids come with a triple-layer foam that sits gently on the face and adapts to the facial structures, giving optimal comfort. On the opposite, thinner foam equals less comfort.
Protection
When talking about the protection, we’re not talking only about light. Physical protection is important too, especially from wind and flying debris that can get into the eyes. The goggles should be tough and not break easily, because breaking could potentially injure your child. The models we featured in our goggles for children reviews are made of tough materials that will give sufficient protection in all standard circumstances.
Design
Children like cute designs on their gear, and goggles are no exception. This is why many models come with colorful frames and have straps with prints of cartoon characters. From the functionality standpoint, kids goggles often have the same design features as adult models. For example, buying a pair with magnetic interchangeable lenses may be very convenient for different weather conditions. Also, if your child wears glasses, you should look for OTG goggles (over the glasses).
You might also be interested in:
Durability
Even though they will need to be replaced at some point, you want a pair that is able to last for a few seasons. They shouldn’t scratch or break easily, which is why you need to pay attention to materials used for both the lens and the frame. It’s desirable to keep the goggles in a pouch (usually provided) to prevent them from getting damaged. Also, it’s a big plus if the goggles come with some type of warranty in case something happens.
FAQs
Q: How To Measure For Children’s Ski Goggles?
A good thing is that kids goggles are pretty universal and adjustable (within an age range). However, you can always measure the child’s head to see if they will fit. Using a measuring tape, you should measure the circumference of the head at eye level. Manufacturers usually provide the dimensions of the frame (it sits on the outer edges of eye sockets) and the circumference (with the strap stretched) so you can compare the information.
Q: Are The Straps Adjustable?
Yes. They are also elastic, so they stretch a bit and sit nicely on your child’s head. The best kids ski goggles have easily adjustable straps with silicone on the inner side to prevent slipping and improve fit. This being said, all of them have an adjustability a limit, so make sure the goggles are appropriate for the age of your child.
Q: How Long Can A Child Use These Goggles?
Your child can use them as long as they fit and aren’t damaged. Because kids goggles are made with smaller frames and shorter straps, you will have to buy a new pair at one point.
Q: How To Clean Ski Goggles?
It’s recommended to wipe them with a microfiber cloth, usually just the outer surface. You should note that the best ski goggles for kids have an anti-fog coating on the inner side. If this is the case, be sure to never wipe the coated surface with anything as it will damage the coating. If goggles are wet, leave them to dry before wiping. In some cases, you can use a lens cleaning solution, but this usually isn’t necessary.
Q: Are Ski Goggles Necessary For Kids?
Yes, they are. There are many reasons why you need goggles, with protection being the main one. However, like other kids' winter clothes, keep in mind that goggles for children need to be replaced every few years, so it’s not a bad idea to look at some more affordable options too.
Globo Surf Overview
The best youth goggles must be on the list when packing the ski gear for your little one. The goggles will protect their eyes and allow them to fully enjoy themselves in the snow, regardless of whether they are experienced little skiers or you’re just teaching your kids to ski. With this information, we’re sure you’ll find a great pair, and your kids will love wearing them.
More Snow Ski Gear Reviews:
- Cameras For Skiing
- Ski And Snowboard Waxes
- Ski Bindings
- Ski Glove Liners
- Ski Knee Braces
- Ski & Snowboard Backpacks
- Ski Hats
- Cross Country Skis
- Ski Goggles
- Ski Poles
- Ski Helmets
- Women’s Ski Jackets
- Ski Gloves
- All Mountain Skis
- Womens Ski Gloves