If you have a smaller face, it can be challenging to get proper fitting snow goggles. You want to make sure you have a secure and tight fit to limit any wind and snow from building up when you are on the mountain.
I’ve been a snowboarding instructor for the last ten years. I’ve used a number of different goggle models during that time, and since I have a somewhat small face, I have experience with which goggles fit me better than others.
The Smith Optics I/O Mag S are the best goggles for small faces. The I/O Mag comes in several sizes, so be sure to get the small or Asian fit model when you want an option for a smaller face.
There are a few other good small-sized goggles to choose from, and I’ll show you a handful of my favorites in this post.
Let’s get after it.
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Who Should Get This
Every goggle in this guide gives skiers and snowboarders with small faces a way to see out on the mountain. They all come with premium attributes backed up with a fit that will provide a good seal on smaller faces.
These options are also solid choices for those who simply want snug goggles. You don’t necessarily need a small face to appreciate or use slimmer-fitting eyewear. If you find that your regular goggles don’t give you the feel you want, or if they sit too big, try the following items.
Top Snow Goggles for Small Faces
Here are my top picks for the best snow goggles for small faces.
1. Best Overall: Smith Optics I/O Mag S
- Best for: Overall
- Key features: Responsive fit frame, spherical carbonic-X lenses, ChromaPop lens tech, tapered lens tech, AirEvac vents
- Frame Size: Small/Asian fit
- Lens: Interchangeable
- Cost: $$$
At the top of the list for snow goggles for small faces is the Smith Optics I/O Mag S. This model is available in several sizes, so make sure you get the small/Asian fit option if you are looking for one to work well with a small face.
The Responsive Fit frame design is a great feature for small faces because it results in a flexible material that molds and flexes around the contours of your face. You’ll get a reliable form-fitting feel that will keep out wind and snow.
Spherical carbonic-X lenses create a curve that helps increase clarity and definition. This combines with tapered lens technology to prevent distortion and allow you to see changes in terrain that come quickly when you ride.
An interchangeable lens system allows you to adapt your lenses to whatever situation you are riding in.
These can fit a bit tight, so you’ll want to get the strap properly adjusted before you ride.
==> You can also get it on Smith Optics or Evo or Jans.
2. Best Field of View: Giro Contour
- Best for: Field of View
- Key features: EXV frameless design, Zeiss lenses, EVAK vent tech, anti-fog coating
- Frame Size: Small/Asian fit
- Lens: Interchangeable
- Cost: $$
The Giro Contour will give you the most expansive field of view for a smaller face goggle. These also have an excellent fit and are very comfortable.
The EXV frameless design increases the surface area of the lenses and allows you to see clearly across your entire peripheral vision line. The frames are still kept small for a good fit, but the visual range is extended.
Toric VIVID lenses are slightly curved to mimic the human eye and help you see accurately in changing light conditions. Legendary lens maker Zeiss makes these. They have an anti-fog coating that works well.
EVAK vent technology helps to reduce fogging and keep your head comfortable when the weather heats up.
Even though these have a good fit, I wish they had a little extra foam for cushioning around the eyes.
==> You can also get it on Fender Play or Evo or Jans.
3. Best Budget Option: Spy Bravo
- Best for: Budget
- Key features: Good field of view, anti-fog lenses, cool style, HD lens tech, anti-scratch coating
- Frame Size: Small/Asian fit
- Lens: Anti-Fog
- Cost: $$
If you want a budget option and have a smaller face, check out the Spy Bravo. These come in a smaller fit while still providing you with excellent on-snow performance.
HD lens technology offers superb clarity and helps to eliminate distortion when you are out on the mountain.
The spherical dual-lens system uses an anti-fog coating to keep you seeing clearly when you are riding hard.
The Bravo also has a RISE ventilation system that creates a vacuum effect to pull hot air away from the lens and reduce fog and moisture.
You also get nearly universal helmet compatibility, which is a great safety feature.
These aren’t the most durable option on the list, and you sacrifice some strength with a budget price.
4. Best for Comfort: Dragon Alliance NFXS
- Best for: Comfort
- Key features: Frameless design, thermal formed lens, scratch-resistant coating, armored venting, helmet-compatible
- Frame Size: Medium
- Lens: Anti-fog
- Cost: $$
If comfort is your main concern, the Dragon Alliance NFXS goggles are the way to go. These will work well for a smaller face while providing all-day comfort.
The flexible frame is key to the versatile coziness these goggles offer. They are made from a strong polyurethane material that remains pliable at colder temps for a perfect fit in any condition.
Frameless technology increases the field of view and gives you outstanding clarity and peripheral vision. A scratch-resistant coating adds to their value and strength, while a super anti-fog coating keeps moisture away.
Armored venting ensures that you can ride in deep snow without plugging up the vent holes. These aren’t the smallest option on the list, so they might not work well with extra small faces.
==> You can also get it on Evo or Buckman’s or DICK’S.
Best Snow Goggles for Small Faces: What to Consider
When looking into a pair of OTG snow goggles that work for you, remember to consider the following factors.
Fit
You need to make sure the goggles you are looking at have a slimmer fit. Many skiers or snowboarders with smaller faces assume that they need tight options that pinch or squeeze their face. That is simply not true. The goal is to get a pair that will stay on without causing any discomfort or pain.
VLT
Visual light transmission (VLT) is a key measurement that denotes what goggles work for what types of light. Every model has its own VLT percentage, and you must pay attention to that number when making your purchase.
Lower VLT numbers are better for bright environments, higher ones are for low-light conditions, and 100 percent VLT goggles are best used at nighttime. Always get models that best match the conditions you most often see.
Additional Features
When purchasing small-faced goggles, it’s easy to focus on fit and nothing else. However, you always want to do your research to see how your pair goes above and beyond. Premium models come with unique attributes that take them over the top.
That includes traits like adjustable straps, quick-change lenses, anti-fog technology, and UV protection. Know what you want out of your eyewear and get a model that matches your needs.
FAQs
Here are a few quick answers to some common questions about OTG goggles.
Do ski goggles come in different sizes?
Yes, they do. Not every model will have different sizes available, but typically, you have a small, regular, and large version. Check with the manufacturer before purchasing if you want a particular size.
Can I use ski goggles for snowboarding?
Yes, for sure. There isn’t anything that makes a ski goggle different from a snow goggle other than branding. I’ve used plenty of ‘ski’ goggles for snowboarding over the years, and they work just the same as snowboarding goggles.
What is Asia fit Smith goggles?
Asia fit Smith goggles are the same model and design as other Smith goggles. They are just available in a smaller size that fits a flatter nose bridge. Because there is such a large market for snowsports in Asia, some companies make Asian fit goggles.
Useful Tips
Every skier and snowboarder should get a pair of goggles that fit their face. Though it’s easy to assume that all smaller-faced riders can use the same goggles, that’s not necessarily true. If you want to get the best fit possible, this sizing guide will help.
When skiing or snowboarding, you have to be prepared. Picking the right gear is part of that battle, and understanding basic tips is another. If you want to make sure you’re ready for anything, check out these handy hacks and apply them to your trips in the snow.
My Verdict
The Smith Optics I/O Mag S is my pick for the best OTG style snow goggle for smaller faces. These are a great set of goggles that will give you excellent optics without fogging up. The small size is perfect for anyone with a smaller face.
All of the options covered in this list are perfect for people with smaller faces. Each one comes with its own features and attributes, but they all work towards the same purpose of providing a solid fit on a smaller head.
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