The eyes are one of the most important organs of perception, but for all their importance, they remain one of the most vulnerable to the external environment. Therefore, they can’t do without additional protection, especially during skiing or snowboarding. In mountainous conditions, this problem is extremely urgent, and indeed, in winter, snowboard masks are a mandatory attribute for an athlete.
First you need to identify the main indicators of protection that a mask should have, that is, what it should prevent:
- radiation like UVB and UVA;
- Sun rays;
- wind;
- particles of ice and snow;
- injuries from falls.
But, in addition to its practicality, snowboard masks should have some ergonomics and not interfere with the review of the athlete.
Shape and size
Each of us has an individual facial structure. But these differences, fortunately, are not so great, so we are not talking about any custom-made masks. Most self-respecting brands and manufacturers made sure that on the shelves of shops flaunted a lot of different designs and models for every taste and size.
Snowboard masks differ in size by only one indicator - the width of the face. There are several basic types of frames that are recognized throughout the world - general, women and children.
The general type is a universal option and has the largest assortment of models both in shape and size, coupled with design. Female models are notable for their small range of products, and the main indicator in this case will be female designs and a reduced width of models. Children's snowboard masks copy the design of general models, but taking into account the anatomy of the child’s head.
Peripheral review
This is one of the critical factors of choice. A significant difference between ski masks and snowboard masks is precisely the angle of the peripheral view. Snowboarders need a wide view, while skiers only need to see events ahead of them. This is due solely to the specifics of the sport, and not to the physical characteristics of each person.
Let's try to identify the best snowboard masks from different manufacturers, taking into account the opinions of experts in this field and the reviews of ordinary owners of this kind of sports equipment.
Electric EG3
The model is distinguished by the presence of a unique fastening system that separates the lens from the main structure and works as a lockable package. You can see two quality lenses as standard. After the athlete has fixed the lens, the mask can be deformed in all directions, without worrying about the safety of the structure.
All parts firmly sit in place without any backlash or gaps. Owners quite warmly respond about the model, considering it convenient and extremely practical. The price of a mask adds a fly in the ointment, but given that the previous lines of the brand are still leading in sports exhibitions in many respects, the cost can be called justified.
Dragon APX2
Snowboard masks Dragon perfectly showed themselves in the last series of ARCH1. And she still enjoys wildly popular, especially among the young generation of athletes. ARX2 has become even more ergonomic and versatile thanks to high-quality interchangeable lenses and their huge selection.
The model uses the new SwiftLock technology, which allows replacing the lens in a matter of seconds - just pull the small lever and in a moment the interchangeable lens will be in place.
Many snowboarders leave positive feedback about the Dragon, noting the simplicity and convenience of the model, as well as an instant change of lenses. The experienced athletes are a little frightened by the clumsy design, but this is a matter of taste, therefore this item cannot be called a defect. It can also be noted that in the basic configuration there is a beautiful cover for a snowboard mask, and this is at least a little, but pleasing.
Smith I / O7
The brand did not stop at the release of the popular and well-proven I / O and I / OX models and moved even further. The new line differs in that the lens change takes place even without touching it. It is enough to feel the small switch from above and with an easy movement replace the old lens with a new one, which avoids unpleasant fingerprints on the glass.
At specialized forums there are a lot of positive reviews about the new model: the snowboard face masks from Smith turned out to be not only thin and comfortable, but also compatible with all known helmets. Some complain about the too strict design of the masks, however, as in other cases, this is a matter of taste.
Oakley flight deck
Oakley snowboard masks have a price level and have always been considered an expensive treat for the elite. But the brand set the high cost of models for a reason - the masks have the largest visibility, and this is a critical factor for a snowboarder.
In addition, the models have a great view both outside and inside. The Flydeck design is equipped with the latest brand lens technology. The kit includes two lenses and a beautiful case, which also pleases.
Although many owners in their reviews complain about the high price of the lineup, experts and experienced snowboarders say that you get what you pay for, so Oakley products can be called a kind of (albeit very expensive) benchmark in this area.
Zeal HD2
If you want to record everything that is happening around you during sports, but there is no desire to carry an additional camera with you, then this model is just your option.
In addition to easy lens replacement, the mask is equipped with a small camera to capture all the interesting points. The new version of HD2 has a smaller version of the camera and more convenient control functionality, unlike the previous line. A new and quite powerful battery will allow for continuous shooting, and the camera, according to the designers, is able to shoot even in poor lighting conditions.
But that’s not all, there is a Wi-Fi in the mask, with which you can easily share the pictures or video taken with friends. There are, of course, a lot of navigations for the model, and therefore its price is appropriate - not every amateur can buy such a “toy”.
In any case, judging by the reviews of the mask owners, the model turned out to be successful: ergonomic, lightweight, understandable and beautiful. Naturally, many are confused by the price, but this is another matter. In technical terms, the mask is perfectly balanced and, along with the rich photo and video capabilities, has a number of other non-sports chips, such as games and Skype. Some note too obvious the conservativeness of the model and the scarcity of design, but again this is a matter of taste, and this indicator does not affect the sporting characteristics.