Endless mountain expanses, insane speed and endless adrenaline - all this is familiar to every person who is a true fan of snowboarding. But in order to feel the whole gamut of impressions from such an activity, a thoughtful approach to the selection of equipment is required. In this material we will try to figure out how to choose a mask for a snowboard, because it is precisely on its qualities that the comfort during skiing largely depends.
Appointment
Why do I need a snowboard mask? Such products have built-in lenses that increase visibility in certain weather conditions. The main purpose of the device is to protect the face from the effects of the mechanical plan, in particular, dirt, sand, chips, small stones getting into the eyes. Among other things, a snowboard mask protects the retina from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, which is amplified several times in the mountains.
Types
Currently, there are several varieties of snowboard masks available to users:
- Cylindrical - represented by products of the budget price category, designed for the average user. The filters are made of solid plastic, which is reflected in the reduction in the cost of finished products. Such lenses create some visual distortion. At the same time, a cylindrical snowboard mask is able to 100% protect the eyes from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.
- Spherical - made from polycarbonate (thermoplastic). They have good optical correctness. In other words, products of this category do not distort the terrain and allow you to correctly evaluate the distance of cat objects. The spherical mask for snowboarding is an excellent solution for experienced athletes, as it has maximum impact resistance and provides reliable protection against UV rays.
Light filters
How to choose a mask for a snowboard? First of all, you should focus on the nature of the installed filters. Of decisive importance are the conditions under which it is planned to snowboard.
Most mask models have the ability to change filters. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase products of various colors in the right quantity in advance. The hue of the lenses not only determines their aesthetic appeal, but also affects the quality of the review:
- transparent filters - protect the face from mechanical damage, but do not protect against the harmful effects of sunlight on the retina;
- yellow - increase the level of contrast in insufficiently bright natural light;
- pink - create a sense of volume of the surrounding space;
- black - soften bright light;
- SLR - eliminate glare;
- green - reduce contrast;
- filters with the effect of a chameleon - adjust to a particular lighting intensity.
When choosing filters, it is important to have anti-fog protection. Attention should be paid to products with double lenses. Due to the presence of an air gap and special ventilation openings, air flows are regulated when they pass through the mask.
Strap
The choice of a mask for a snowboard should be carried out, paying attention to the nature of the strap used. The latter should be long enough for comfortable operation and be as wide as possible.
Significantly simplifies the operation of the mask along with the helmet, the choice of a latch strap. If preference is given to the standard version in the form of a regular gum, it is necessary to check whether there are silicone inserts in its structure that improve friction in contact with smooth surfaces.
Frame
Not sure how to choose a snowboard mask? Of decisive importance is the selection of the appropriate frame. To determine this parameter, you should pay attention to the following points:
- the mask should fit as tightly as possible to the skin around the entire perimeter, but at the same time not cause discomfort, exerting excessive pressure on the face;
- determining the shape of the nasal cuts, it is necessary to dwell on models that do not create extra gaps, but also do not interfere with breathing freely;
- if riding in a helmet is supposed, the frame of the mask should be selected in accordance with its shape;
- the best snowboard masks fit securely both on the helmet and on the cap (if a comfortable tight fit of the product cannot be adjusted by changing the length of the strap, it is worth considering more practical options).
Polarization
When choosing a mask for a snowboard, you should rely on such a concept as the level of polarization of the filter - the ability to reflect all kinds of glare. The lenses that have this effect make the review deeper, sharper, and do not make the eyes tired.
The polarizing ability is realized by applying microscopic notches to the light filter. In professional masks, the operation is done through the use of laser technology. In the manufacture of simple models, the effect is created by chemical surface treatment of materials. In the latter case, the regular use of the mask leads to rather rapid abrasion of the notches, which causes a deterioration in the polarization properties of the lens.
As for the models, Adidas Pinner, Anon M2, Dragon Advanced Projects X2, Dye T1 Bjorn Leines Pro, Dye T1 Bjorn Leines Pro, Nike Command Transition, Smith I / OX Snowboard Goggles are considered the best.
Care Tips
Having picked up a mask for a snowboard, relying on the above parameters, it is important to keep it in a functional state as long as possible. To do this, avoid wiping the lens with elements of outer clothing, which can lead to microscopic scratches on the surface of the filter.
To care for the lenses, it is recommended to use the lining of the soft cover that comes with the mask, or a special cloth designed for these purposes.
It is better to store the product away from direct sources of heat and open sun. There is a whole mass of functional backpacks, where there is a special mask compartment that contains a soft, harmless to light filters coating.
Taking into account the above tips, you can significantly extend the life of the mask for snowboarding without compromising its functionality and reducing the quality of the review.