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Product review: 2 goggles to check out for the ski season
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The Aerospace's most distinguished feature, which has already garnered industry awards, is its ventilation system. - photo by Grant Olsen
THE GREAT OUTDOORS Snow is here and the ski and snowboard season is upon us.

Each new ski and snowboard season presents the opportunity to check out the latest gear. Even if new products arent in your budget, it can still be interesting to see what technologies have been developed by the major brands in their never-ending battle to stay on the cutting edge.

This review compares two different snow goggles: the Spy Ace and the Julbo Aerospace. They have dramatically different features and prices, but both have a lot to offer.

SPY Ace Goggle

GRADE: A

PRICE: $110

The Ace is notable for a couple reasons. First, its the first cylindrical frame SPY goggle to use the brands award-winning Happy Lenses. This is a big deal, because Happy Lenses are some of the best on the market. Second, its also one of the few cylindrical goggles out there with an efficient quick change lens system. It has a sliding lever that lets you easily swap your lens based on the conditions.

Like most quick change goggles, the Ace comes with two lenses. You can choose from multiple options. Overall, the lenses offer sharp contrast, 100 percent UV protection and anti-scratch protection. Their curved design also makes them more resistant to impact damage.

The frames are extremely comfortable, with triple-layer Isotron face foam and moisture-wicking Dri-Force fleece. And while the Scoop ventilation system isnt nearly as advanced as whats found on the Aerospace, it does a solid job of keeping things clear.

All in all, the Ace is a great option. It boasts several key features that make it a bargain at just over $100.

Julbo Aerospace Goggle

GRADE: A

PRICE: Varies by retailer

The Aerospace from Julbo is as technologically advanced as they come. While most goggles look more or less the same, the Aerospace stands out with its refined and advanced appearance. You can tell a lot of thought has gone into their development.

The most distinguished feature, which has already garnered industry awards, is the ventilation system. Dubbed SuperFlow by Julbo, it enables you to adjust the screen for optimal ventilation. The functionality is smooth (even with gloves) and it really does eliminate misting problems.

The Aerospace gives you an incredibly wide field of vision, thanks to the spherical design and minimalist frame. Its refreshing to be able to look any direction and see nothing but the terrain in front of you.

One final thing worth noting is the Aerospace comes with photochromic lenses. Based on your specific needs, you can choose from four different varieties. The clarity is great and the photochromic element only adds to what is already an extremely high-performing goggle.

What is your favorite brand of googles for skiing or snowboarding? Let us know in the comments.
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