I’ve gone through my fair share of goggles in the last 40+ years of snow skiing. I’ve been actively skiing since the mid 70’s, so you can imagine the wide scope of goggle technology that’s been pressed upon my face. As you may have assumed, technology has not skipped over the snow goggle. Advancements in optics, lens coatings, anti-fog measures, frames and foam padding have only improved this piece of equipment. And thus improved safety as well. With an ever growing list of goggle manufacturers, where do you start? It’s hard to go wrong these days in the US with companies like Oakley, Smith Optics and Anon offering a comprehensive line-up of snow goggles. But what happens when a newcomer from across the pond wants to join the party? Enter KOO Eyewear from Italy.
BORN IN ITALY, WORN AROUND THE WORLD
A weeklong trip to Steamboat Springs Colorado allowed me to test the new KOO Eclipse snow goggles in a variety of weather conditions. In the bright sunlight at over 10,000′ above sea level, KOO’s Iridium Mirror Lens (VLT – 15.62%) provided some of the best optical clarity I’ve ever experienced in a ski goggle. Additionally, the high performance cylindrical lens by ZEISS guaranteed total protection from UV rays (100% UVA, UVB and UVC). With maximum optical quality, distortions are eliminated, ensuring unparalleled quality of panoramic vision. This is important to safely bash your way through the iconic Aspen trees at Steamboat. You don’t want to underestimate your proximity to a tree at any speed.
KOO Eclipse Features:
- Cylindric Lens by Zeiss
- Slot-In Changing Lens System
- Ultimate Ventilation
- Panoramic view
- Optical Class 1
- No pressure design
- Silicone strap
- 3 Layer foam
- 100% UV protection
- Anti-fog
- MSRP $180
Later in the week, a storm system brought several feet of Champagne powder to the area. It also brought flat low light conditions. Which were a bit more challenging for the Iridium Mirror Lens. I wish I had KOO’s Unveil Lens for these lighting conditions. However, my test pair didn’t include that option. But I may purchase this optional lens when it’s back in stock. Fortunately, the KOO Eclipse features a slot-in system allowing quick lens changes without leaving fingerprints and marks on the lens. Finally, “the dual lens technology enhances resistance to fogging and exceeds the thresholds required according to the European Standards EN174 regulations. The shape of ECLIPSE’ s new cylindrical lens means it sits closer to the face, and the shape of the frame makes the lens less exposed to accidental scratching”.
Final Thoughts:
If I could highlight the KOO Eclipse Goggles with one word, It would simply be “clarity”. The absolute lack of distortion throughout the entire curve of their cylindrical lenses were unparalleled. I even compared them side-by-side with my Oakleys and was very impressed. The Zeiss lens resembled looking through a high-end pair of sunglasses. Plus, I never had a problem with the lens fogging up despite being required to wear a face covering. Something I’ve never skied with prior to COVID. I do however, look forward to using these goggles the rest of the year as we continue to travel to various ski destinations.
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